International recruitment: the power of diversity and intercultural skills
The labor market is becoming increasingly international. Companies seeking to attract and retain talent are looking beyond their national borders more than ever. International recruitment provides access to a broader and more diverse pool of candidates. This not only strengthens expertise within the organization but also fosters fresh ideas and innovation. At the same time, this approach requires strong intercultural skills within and between teams. Why is this important, and how can employers cultivate these skills among their staff?
The benefits of international recruitment
A bigger pool of suitable candidates
Many countries are facing a shortage of specialized professionals, particularly in IT, engineering, and healthcare. International recruitment help companies more easily find the right people, regardless of their location.
More innovation and creativity
Teams made up of employees from diverse cultural backgrounds bring fresh ideas and perspectives into an organization. International employees often approach problems from different angles, which can lead to innovative solutions. As a result, companies become more flexible and innovative.
Stronger competitive position
Companies that recruit at international level gain a better understanding of global customer needs. Additionally, employees with diverse backgrounds are familiar with the nuances of different markets. This enables companies to adapt more quickly and effectively, strengthening their competitive edge.
Why are intercultural skills so important?
Attracting international talent is an important first step. However, its success depends on how well employees collaborate in a diverse working environment. Intercultural skills are crucial to this process. Employees often have different communication styles, take different approaches to decision-making, and use different working methods – all of which is perfectly normal. Teams with strong intercultural skills are better equipped to bridge these differences, thus preventing misunderstandings. The result: an open and productive working environment.
Additionally, intercultural skills contribute to fostering an inclusive workplace. When companies actively promote diversity and inclusion, international employees feel valued and understood. This boosts their engagement and satisfaction, leading to longer tenure with the company. Moreover, it contributes to team stability, subsequently reducing the costs associated with turnover.
In short, investing in intercultural skills is not only beneficial to collaboration, but also strengthens overall productivity and cohesion within an organization.
Who benefits most from intercultural skills?
Intercultural skills are not only crucial for international employees, but for everyone within an organization.
- HR professionals and recruiters will better understand how to attract international talent, provide the necessary support, and assist with their integration into the company culture.
- Managers will improve their ability to lead diverse teams and be more aware of cultural differences in communication and motivation.
- Colleagues working with international employees will be exposed to different styles of working and norms, which is beneficial to collaboration and productivity.
How can employers improve their employees’ intercultural skills?
Training sessions and workshops
Organize training sessions and workshops on intercultural communication and diversity to raise awareness of cultural differences and promote better collaboration.
Mentors and buddy systems
Pair international employees with experienced colleagues to facilitate their integration and promote the mutual exchange of knowledge.
A clear and inclusive HR policy
Incorporate diversity and inclusion into your recruitment strategy, provide language support for international employees, and adjust your assessment and promotion criteria to avoid bias. Designate a contact person to whom employees can turn with any questions on this matter.
Cultural events and networking
Organize events where cultural diversity is a central theme, and where employees are given the opportunity to learn more about each other’s backgrounds.
Open communication and feedback
Foster a working environment where intercultural collaboration can be openly discussed, and employees feel comfortable enough to ask questions and provide feedback.
Text: Josefien De Bock
