Yes—But Learning How to Replant Them Is the Secret to a Successful Relocation

While securing housing and managing logistics are necessary, true wellbeing abroad comes from feeling connected, supported, and "at home."

Industry research companies like The Brookfield Global Relocation Trends Survey consistently find that "family concerns" are the top challenge for assignees and a primary reason for assignment failure.

The good news is that with the right support, these challenges can be managed. Here are five essential strategies to help you and your family plant new roots and flourish:

1. Build a Local Support Network

Why Social Connection Is a Cornerstone of Successful Expat Adjustment

Feeling isolated is one of the most common struggles for international assignees and their families. Establishing a formal buddy system—pairing newcomers with local colleagues—provides a vital bridge for:

• Practical advice

• Cultural interpretation

• Social integration

This two-way support fosters meaningful relationships and eases the transition for both expatriates and local employees.

The Evidence: According to Mercer, a lack of support from host-location management is a major contributor to assignment underperformance.

2. Master the Local Language and Communication Style

The Fastest Path to Trust, Belonging, and Professional Success

Learning to navigate verbal and non-verbal nuances is powerful. It builds trust in the workplace and helps you form genuine connections within the community, moving you from "outsider" to "neighbor."

Studies in the International Journal of Human Resource Management show that expatriates with strong host-country language skills experience:

• More robust social networks

• Greater access to information

• Enhanced understanding of workplace norms

• Higher performance ratings

• A deeper sense of personal accomplishment

3. Create an Action Plan for the Spouse or Partner

The Often Overlooked Predictor of Assignment Success

A partner’s adjustment is consistently the strongest predictor of whether an assignment succeeds or fails. A proactive plan should address:

• Employment or career support

• Social integration opportunities

• Personal development and wellness goals

The Evidence: Academic studies prove that the spouse's adjustment is the most significant predictor of the employee's adjustment and the overall success of the assignment.

4. Support a Smooth Transition for Children

When Children Thrive, Families Thrive

A child’s difficulty adapting can create significant stress for the entire family. To ease the transition:

• Connect them with school communities early

• Explore hobbies, sports, or clubs

• Introduce them to other local or expat children

The Evidence: Research on "Third Culture Kids" (TCKs) shows that children develop a unique, hybrid cultural identity from a cross-cultural upbringing. Supporting this journey is key to their wellbeing.

5. Invest in Cross-Cultural Learning in the Workplace

Understand Local Norms to Lead Effectively Across Cultures

Every culture has its own expectations around:

• Leadership and motivation

• Giving and receiving feedback

• Communication styles

• Trust-building

• Meeting etiquette

What works in one country may be ineffective—or even offensive—in another. Cross-cultural training helps employees navigate these differences with confidence and clarity.

The Evidence: Cross-cultural learning is not just about understanding others—it also reveals the hidden assumptions of your own leadership and communication style.

The Real Drivers of Assignment Success: Culture, Connection & Family Support

The data reveals a clear pattern: international assignments fail for personal and cultural reasons far more often than for professional incompetence.

The most effective global mobility programs take a holistic approach, offering:

• Robust cross-cultural training

• Host-country language programs

• Family support resources

• Local buddy systems

• Comprehensive spouse and partner assistance

This is not just about “doing things right”—it’s about creating a sense of belonging. These recommendations are a core part of a comprehensive program designed to help you feel truly rooted.

Final Thoughts

Helping Families Replant Their Roots Abroad

Relocation is an opportunity for growth, transformation, and global understanding. The strategies above form the foundation of a comprehensive support program designed to help individuals and families feel grounded—no matter where in the world their work takes them.

If you're exploring ways to improve the expat experience, start with expert guidance. Our team is here to guide you with insights, resources, and best practices to help your globally mobile employees feel rooted from day one.

This post was written by Marina Rowe, Global LT's Cultural Programme Manager