How can you prepare your family for a smooth repatriation after an international assignment?

1 Assess your expectations

Before you leave your host country, take some time to reflect on your goals, achievements, and learnings from your assignment. How have you and your family grown personally and professionally? What skills and competencies have you developed? How do you want to leverage your international experience in your future career? Be realistic and flexible about your expectations, and communicate them clearly with your employer, colleagues, and family. Don't assume that everything will be the same as before, or that everyone will be interested in your stories.

3 Reconnect with your network

One of the most important aspects of repatriation is reconnecting with your social and professional network in your home country. You may have lost touch with some of your contacts, or feel out of sync with their lives and interests. To bridge the gap, you need to reach out to them proactively, update them on your situation, and show genuine interest in theirs. You can also use social media, online platforms, and alumni associations to expand your network and find new opportunities. Don't be afraid to ask for help, advice, or referrals from your connections.

4 Manage your career transition

Repatriation can also be a critical moment for your career development and progression. You may have to face a new role, a different team, or a changed organizational culture. You may also have to deal with a loss of status, autonomy, or responsibility. To manage your career transition effectively, you need to align your expectations with your employer, negotiate your terms and conditions, and showcase your value and contributions. You also need to update your resume, portfolio, and online profile with your international experience and skills.

5 Support your family

Your family may also face challenges in repatriating, especially if they have children or spouses who have to adapt to a new school, work, or lifestyle. You need to support them emotionally, practically, and financially, and involve them in the decision-making process. You can also help them find resources and activities that can ease their transition, such as counseling, coaching, mentoring, or volunteering. You can also encourage them to keep in touch with their friends and contacts from the host country, and celebrate their achievements and milestones.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?