I have been fortunate enough to run several marathons around the globe and during my most recent training block, I was thinking about how some of the worries and excitement preparing for a marathon mirror some of the thought processes involved in an international assignment.
Masaka, Uganda Marathon – my first marathon in Africa and where I met my now Fiancé!
So, in light of this summer of sport, I have created our latest article to highlight the key stages of preparing for and running the notoriously difficult ‘Mobility Marathon’.
In the first of this corresponding blog, we look at the stages in the lead up to the marathon:
What is the best one for me to do?
Effective pre-assignment planning can help companies ensure that (where possible) the employee is matched with the best overseas opportunity. Involving the assignee from an early stage can help ensure objectives and intentions are aligned.
I’m so excited!
Once your employee has agreed to an assignment, there will likely be a wave of excitement but also nervousness. During this time the employee will have a number of questions, ensuring you have clear policy documents, as well as clear points of contact in the mobility team can help mitigate queries.
Will I be successful?
Ensuring the assignee has a clear conversation regarding the aims and objectives of their assignment will help prepare them for their overseas role. In addition, organising introductions with the host office team facilities connections before the assignees first day.
I’m so nervous, I just want to start now!
In the last few weeks and days before the assignee moves to the host location, they will want to make sure all the necessary arrangements are in place. Ensuring the assignee has a check list/arrival details/itinerary of their first week — will help minimize any pre departure concerns.
Next time
It’s marathon time! The training has finished — the big day is here! We work through the significant transition and the corresponding phases of an assignment that assignees may experience during this period.
AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 50km desert ultra marathon in one of the most stunning and friendly countries I have visited as a solo traveller!
