Emergencies are inherently stressful, not just for the employee directly affected but for their families and colleagues. In such moments, small yet thoughtful actions can significantly impact how the situation unfolds. While planning and protocols are critical, the human touch can make all the difference in ensuring employees feel supported and valued during crises.

Key Areas to Focus On

  • Updating Family or Next of Kin
In emergencies, the employer is often the first point of contact. But does your organization have accurate next-of-kin information? Ensuring these details are up to date and that communication protocols are clear allows you to promptly inform and reassure family members. 
  • Facilitating Medical Support
Employees may find themselves in hospitals with language barriers or facilities ill-equipped for international patients. Mobility teams should have procedures in place to relocate employees to suitable private medical centers when necessary. This ensures they receive appropriate care while minimizing stress. 
  • Supporting Families
In some cases, an employee’s family may need to travel to the host location following an incident. For many, this could be financially or logistically challenging. Offering assistance with travel arrangements, accommodation, and even emotional support can alleviate some of the burden during an already difficult time. 
  • Repatriation and Reintegration
If the employee needs to return home, arranging a seamless transition is crucial. Repatriation support, coupled with efforts to reintegrate them into their previous role, showcases goodwill and reinforces their value to the organization. 

Conclusion and Call to Action

While policies and procedures are essential, the human touch ensures that employees feel supported when they need it most. By focusing on empathy and action, your Mobility program can set itself apart as both responsive and compassionate. 

Want to take your Mobility program to the next level?

Download the comprehensive white paper, A Long Way from Home: Emergency Responses for Internationally Mobile Employees, by AIRINC and International SOS. Learn how to create an impactful and empathetic emergency response plan. 

And if you want to hear more on this topic, listen to the PerchPeek podcast 'How Mobility Teams Can Lead in Crisis Management' here.

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