Relocating to a new country for work can be an exciting experience. It can also be incredibly stressful, ranking as high as dealing with a major illness on the Holmes and Rahe Stress Inventory.
Employers play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of their international employees during this transition.
Here are five tips for New Zealand employers to ease the stress of relocation:
1. Understand Their Needs
Take the time to understand the unique requirements of your new team members and their families. Offering tailored support for housing, transportation, and other logistical matters shows your commitment to their success and eases their transition to New Zealand.
2. Create a warm welcome
A workplace culture that embraces diversity and fosters inclusivity is essential for success. Empower existing staff with the necessary knowledge and empathy to support their international colleagues. Not only will this foster a sense of belonging but it will also reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety among new employees.
3. Support language skills
For many migrants arriving in New Zealand, English may not be their first language. Support their success and build their confidence by offering language classes. Just as important, is providing insight into Kiwi culture, making it easier to adapt to our unique customs and workplace culture.
4. Keep the Conversation Flowing
Open lines of communication are essential for building trust, and reducing stress.
Check in regularly with your new team members. Allow them to share concerns and issues openly and honestly and encouage them to ask for support if needed.
Assigning a mentor or buddy to new international staff members is a great way to ensure they have support to navigate challenges as they settle into their new role.
5. Foster Connections
Encourage new staff to engage in team-building activities and networking events. Support them in making connections within the workplace by facilitating interactions with colleagues. Building relationships at work, whether personal or professional, fosters a sense of belonging and collaboration.
Supporting international staff isn't just about doing what's right; it's smart business too. By prioritising the well-being of their new employees, New Zealand organisations not only improve employee retention and productivity but also enhance their reputation among top talent globally.
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If you are a recruiter or HR Professional bringing international talent to NZ, Mobile Relocation has a range of settlement support services to suit your candidates and your business - from baseline support to meet Immigration New Zealand’s AEWV Accreditation requirements (Kiwi LaunchPad) through to personalised programmes to support your most valued international employees.
Bridget Romanes is a New Zealander who has lived and worked as a diplomat in Singapore and India. After experiencing all facets of the relocation experience, she founded Mobile to work with private individuals moving to NZ and leading local and international businesses bringing in offshore talent.