How Can Your Family Successfully Adjust to an International Relocation?

An international relocation can be a fantastic career opportunity, but its success often depends on your family's ability to adjust. Without proper support for your spouse and children, the assignment is at risk. Based on mainstream human resources data, a lack of family adjustment is a leading cause of failed international assignments. This article outlines the key challenges and the support you should seek from your employer to ensure a smooth transition for everyone.

What Family Challenges Arise During an International Move?

The excitement of a new role abroad is often tempered by practical family concerns. For dual-career couples, a primary issue is spousal employment. Work permits may be unavailable, or finding "professionally advancing employment" can be difficult, creating significant stress. Children, especially teenagers, face cultural dislocation and anxiety about leaving friends, schools, and extracurricular activities behind. These personal issues can directly impact the employee's performance and satisfaction, making family support not just a personal matter, but a critical business one.

What Relocation Assistance Should You Request from Your Company?

Your first step is to formally inquire about your company's relocation services. Many firms contract with specialized agencies. You should ask specific questions about the programs available. Key elements of a comprehensive package include:

• A "Look-See" Visit: An extended, company-sponsored trip for you and your spouse to explore the new city. This allows you to "size up their new environment" and begin developing emotional awareness, which is an important factor in creating security.
• Cross-Cultural Training: Ideally, this should include the entire family, not just the employee. For children aged six and older, age-appropriate training about the new culture and values can demystify the experience.
• Spousal Support Services: This may include career counseling, networking assistance, or guidance on furthering education or volunteer opportunities.
• Child-Focused Integration: Some companies facilitate connections between your children and peers at their new school, helping to "establish a level of personal, one-on-one, kid-to-kid connection" that bolsters their sense of security.

How Can You Supplement Company Support for a Smoother Transition?

Even with robust company support, proactive personal research is essential. If your employer's assistance is limited, you can leverage online resources to fill the gaps. Reputable websites provide invaluable peer-to-peer advice and country-specific information. Based on our assessment experience, the following types of resources are particularly helpful:

To navigate an international move successfully, a dual-focused approach is crucial. Formally request comprehensive family-inclusive support from your employer, including a pre-move visit and cross-cultural training. Proactively use online expatriate resources to gain real-world insights and build a support network before you go. By addressing your family's practical and emotional needs upfront, you turn a potential upheaval into an enriching adventure for everyone involved.