Post 4: Cultural Adaptation

Recently I’ve spent a lot of time talking to customers and colleagues who have moved countries, Heads of Global Mobility, relocation firms, and immigration advisors.

We know there are long lists of things to sort out when moving countries (banking being one of them), but nothing really prepares you for the culture shock when you land somewhere new.

Yes, you can read up on the new culture, which side of the road to drive on, and the like but that doesn’t help you understand British humour or how to really make a cuppa (Yorkshire obviously).

It doesn’t help you when you need a local plumber you can rely on, or which school is right for your kids (and how to register them). And it will certainly never help you know what makes a peak, off-peak or super-off-peak train. You don’t need to move countries to be stuck on this one.?

Whilst moving countries can bring personal gains in career, income, and broader horizons, you sacrifice belonging, family, comfort zones and familiarity.?

Cultural differences can be daunting for expats.

Global Mobility and HR teams can help by offering cultural training and connecting individuals with local networks, helping them adapt more smoothly and feel at home in their new environment. Making local complexities easier (including their banking needs) is a massively helpful step which our team can support.?You can also access country guides online that will support people ahead of their big move.?

Let’s try to make moving easier, so please do get in touch if you need a banking partner to help globally mobile colleagues.

#CulturalTraining #EmployeeWellbeing #HSBC #HSBCInternational #International #InternationalBanking #BankingAbroad #GlobalMobility #PreDeparture #Relocation #HRSupport??