Neophytes to Cosmopolitans: How do we prepare our Expatriates for Foreign Postings?

The cultural environment in which expatriates work and live is an extremely important factor in determining successful performance. Despite the literature supporting this aspect and the implication on bottom line results, organisations continue to send employees on foreign assignments ill prepared for the environment. It appears that since Tung’s work (1981 and 1982) little has been done in the way of ensuring successful assignments. This project analyses findings of a pilot study involving Australian expatriates on the status of their formal pre-departure training; mentor programs to monitor the interests of the firm and the expatriate; and the support for those selected for their technical skills whilst on international assignment. The pilot project suggests further research is warranted with additional aspects of preparation for international assignments and linking this to organisational success.