When a spouse is assigned an overseas assignment, the partner is faced with many obstacles.
According to research done by Val Boyko into 'global solutions for international assignments' at the Families in Global Transition conference in 2004, she found that the 4 biggest challenges that follow the expat partners expressed are that they feel:
1. Unrecognized.
2. Unsupported.
3. Let down because of inaccurate or irrelevant information.
4. Isolated.
Maybe you or a friend is experiencing life as an expat partner where you thought you would be able to work, but have found out that it was is a near impossibility; or that you have assumed that internet access would be easily available to maintain contact with friends and family or only to discover that it takes months to get connected; or you are a newcomer without an expat community around you them AND you can't speak the language.
This happens all the time to expat spouses.
The Solution:
Everyone working together to understand and acknowledge the needs of partners and families; becoming informed and setting accurate expectations in order to make the best choices; offering support and help to build a community.
This is so simple - yet not so easy in practice. It takes a global team effort!
Val's Tips for Overcoming the Challenges Facing Accompanying Spouses
1. Employees or partners:
Find out about the issues that accompanying spouses face and recognize their new role. Your job may be exciting and a great opportunity, but not at the expense of your family falling apart. Be there for them, especially in the first crucial weeks.
2. Existing expats:
You may have forgotten what your own expatriation was like. Take a few minutes just now to recall your experience. Ask yourself what made a difference to you, or what you would have REALLY appreciated, then do the same for at least 3 new expats. If we all reached out, think of the impact around the world - WOW!
3. HR and support people:
Appreciate that the successful adjustment of the family is the number one factor for assignment success AND it takes time - it's more than arranging the move and handling procedures. Look into your heart in the midst of the red tape, pressure and delays, and reach out as you would want for yourself in the same position. Think of how to keep in touch with the family - not just the employee. Is there a way to introduce expats to each other? Offer additional support such as career and life coaching in the first year - even when it may not be your responsibility. This is a powerful and cost effective way to contribute to the overall success of the assignment.
4. New expats:
Educate yourself - there is so much information on the web, don't rely on others to give you what you may need, start exploring possibilities before you go. Make contact with people in the new country through groups and message boards. Don't assume it will be similar to your impressions - IT WON'T BE! Be curious and pro-active - it's great practice for when you get there too! Ask for help from those around you. Leave that stiff upper lip and pride behind and let others know what you need and want. It's more than okay - it can be a life saver and the start of true friendships and a great new life!
Kim Knight is a sought-after trusted and inspirational Weight Loss, Expatriate and Personal Life Coach. She has helped many individuals succeed and reach their goals. There are many successful clients whose friends and family are amazed at finding out that someone else coached them on their overall transformation. She has also written EBooks for all those who want to help themselves or support others, appeared on radio shows and holds teleclasses, seminars and workshops. For more information, visit Kim’s site at www.kimknightcoaching.com and sign up for up for her FREE Tips at http://www.coachtogreatness.com and http//www.thesuccesssweightlosscoach.com
