With the ever increasing occurrence of the " International Assignment", it is paramount for employees relocating to new countries to be able to "hit the ground running"
In effect, this means that prior to departure assignees should gain a sound understanding of the new Country's culture and practices with the aim of being able to relate both quickly and effectively with their new colleagues or clients.
Next to the excitement of relocating to a foreign country comes a certain amount of apprehension and even fear of the unknown!
A pre departure briefing can eradicate any anxiety and will enable the assignee and family to settle in successfully without the costly necessity of early repatriation.
Who will benefit from a briefing?
Employees (plus partner or spouse) re-locating on international assignments as well as managers with an international (offshore) remit.
What can a briefing cover? Briefings can be delivered as standard country and cultural briefings or as bespoke (personalised) briefings based on your specifically anticipated needs.

Standard briefings will generally examine the following issues.

Country & cultural briefings for ex pats and spouse:

• Geographical & practical orientation Safety -wellbeing & local law social aspects - community & daily life.
• Key differences in outlook & values vs. stereotypes.
• Making contact - introductions & social etiquette acceptance - cultural adaptation & fitting in.

Country & business culture briefings for ex pats & international managers:

• Geo/socio characteristics / implications / influences.
• The cultural model and it s interface.
• Introductions - gaining respect.
• Mentality - values - misconceptions - formality
• Forms of address - titles -status - bus cards - dress social protocol - do s/dont's - local sensitivities.
• Personal security - conduct in public places.
• Business meetings - entertaining - negotiation.
• Decision making - avoiding conflict.
  
  Example of standard Country & Cultural briefing. (Japan) >>