How can I prevent Expat Failure?

* Updated on February 20, 2025
When hiring an expat, there are several key qualities they must possess or develop to succeed. Cultural, social, and business factors must all be considered to avoid failure and to select the right candidate. Once you have evaluated and chosen the ideal candidate, you can connect them with an international moving company to facilitate their relocation.

Ensure the Expat’s Family is Onboard

One of the main reasons for expat failure is the inability of their family to settle in the new country. When an expat receives a job offer and begins preparing for relocation, they may unintentionally overlook the challenges their family faces. This is often referred to as the “trailing spouse” issue. To prevent this, it is beneficial to interview the expat’s partner as well. This allows you to assess whether the family is likely to adjust well to the new environment.

Check the Expat’s Language Skills and Experience

If proficiency in the local language is a job requirement, ensure the expat is aware of this and meets the necessary standard. Strong language skills will help them integrate professionally, build confidence, and earn the respect of colleagues, clients, and other contacts. If the candidate does not speak the local language but is multilingual, they may be able to learn it quickly.

While there is no guaranteed way to predict an expat’s success, you can improve your chances by evaluating their past experience. Candidates who have previously worked in the target country or in culturally similar regions are often better suited for the transition. Ultimately, some individuals adapt more easily than others, and it is your responsibility to identify the most resilient and adaptable candidates.

Ways to Simplify the Hiring Process

Consider enlisting the help of a talent manager. Many companies process a large volume of applicants, each with unique skills, experience levels, and salary expectations. A talent manager can help you filter through initial candidates, leaving you with only the most suitable options. If your company has an internal talent management team, this will further streamline the process and save valuable time.

Once you have narrowed down your list, consider flying in the top candidates for in-person interviews and assessments, especially if the role is critical. This will allow you to get a more accurate impression of each candidate. Once you have made your selection, you can provide the chosen candidate with information on recommended international shipping companies to facilitate their move.

Additionally, there are numerous digital tools and applications available that can help assess candidates based on your specific requirements. While these tools won’t make decisions for you, they can significantly reduce the number of applicants by filtering them according to predefined criteria.

Leverage the Expertise of Experienced Expats

Using a selection board or consulting with experienced expats can provide valuable insights and a balanced perspective during the hiring process. Expats who have previously gone through similar relocations may recognize a candidate’s potential more effectively based on their own experiences.

During interviews, offer candidates a realistic preview of the job responsibilities and the living conditions in their prospective new country. Being transparent about all aspects of the job and resisting the temptation to oversell the opportunity will help filter out candidates who may not be fully committed to the move.

Helping the Expat Adjust to a New Country

Once you have selected a candidate, they should begin the moving process as soon as possible. However, avoid placing excessive pressure on them—allowing them to manage the transition at a steady pace will lead to a smoother relocation.

One effective approach is to offer the expat an exploratory trip to their future home country before they make the move. This serves multiple purposes:

1. It gives them a chance to familiarize themselves with their new environment.
2. It allows them to reassess whether the opportunity is truly the right fit for them.
3. It helps them prepare logistically, including arranging accommodations and connecting with an international shipping company.

Supporting your expat employee through every stage of the transition will ensure they feel welcomed and confident in their new role. Helping them navigate the relocation process and adjust to their new surroundings will not only increase their chances of success but will also benefit your organization in the long run.