Expanding a business globally is an exciting but stressful process. Not only do you need to think about the physical infrastructure such as offices, factories and warehouses, but you need to consider hiring staff.
Ensuring your workforce is satisfied whilst upholding your company values when you are abroad is tough. Here are some things to consider when hiring international talent.
Challenges of international hiring
Before you can even work out the logistics, the recruitment process for international talent can be difficult. This is a prime example of where outsourcing can be the best course of action. By employing a reputable local agency to handle the recruitment process for you, you can be sure you will get high-quality local talent.
Language barriers are also a common challenge. One way around this is to offer language classes to facilitate communication. If this isn’t something you feel is needed, you could always hire bilingual staff to act as translators when needed.
It is also important that you are compliant with local and country-based regulations. You don’t want to start a business in another country with a cloud of non-compliance hanging over you.
Simplifying global recruitment
Sometimes hiring talent abroad can add an extra layer of work that may be too much to handle from abroad. In these circumstances, consider using an Employer of Record. EORs are third-party organisations which legally employ workers on behalf of another company.
By using an EOR, you can be assured that all the payroll, taxes, benefits and contracts are handled appropriately. This leaves you to focus on the business operations without interruptions.
Building an effective global team
Collaboration between employees and departments makes for a successful and productive team. However, this can be challenging when you are dealing with time zones, language barriers and global infrastructure.
Technology is definitely your friend when organising meetings across time zones. Just remember to be mindful of different cultural holidays and working hours. Showing this basic level of respect will help to foster a trusting and open environment.
Regular check-ins are also helpful, especially if you have teams working on the same project in different locations. Not only can these be used as an opportunity to catch up with the latest developments, but they can also be a great way to encourage a more relaxed relationship between colleagues.
Scaling with confidence
However you decide to grow your company, having reliable partners to work with is imperative. Businesses that have been lovingly grown from nothing can be precious, so handing over any responsibility to others can be tough.
Take some time to properly vet any agencies you are going to use to make sure you feel comfortable doing so. Don’t worry if this takes time, the right hiring agency or EOR is out there for you.
Understanding Cultural Differences
Hiring foreign talent calls for an awareness of and tolerance for cultural differences. Countries may have somewhat different work habits, communication techniques, and views on hierarchy. Investigate local business policies and etiquette to help to create a good work atmosphere and prevent misinterpretation.
Training your current staff in cultural awareness can assist to close gaps and foster a harmonic workplace. Promote candid conversation and criticism to proactively handle cultural issues. Accepting variety not only improves your worldwide team but also introduces fresh ideas and viewpoints, therefore boosting creativity and output when you enter other markets.