Immigration has been an extremely hot topic with recent political movements, with companies across the globe opting for international talent that works from home, as opposed to renting expensive office spaces and forcing staff to come into the workplace. It seems that foreign workers over the years have been the missing cog in the system that, when hired, have driven businesses to become more successful than they may have first imagined.
Whilst there is a minority who suggest that jobs should remain open to the domestic job market, international candidates are something that you should consider for your business, especially fi you are seeking international expansion. Be sure to consult with an immigration lawyer in London prior to hiring if you are looking to bring employees from overseas. Here are just a few of the key benefits to hiring from overseas:
Your talent gap isn’t being filled by the domestic job market
There continues to be a skills shortage in several industries across the UK, simply because it’s becoming a highly competitive job market. Where in some industries, applications are arriving left, right, and centre, other industries are becoming seriously strained from resources and talent. This is where international candidates could provide a helping hand in filling these job gaps. For example, India has a booming number of graduates within the engineering sector, whilst Poland has a growing talent pool that can fill computer programming roles. In these particular cases, whilst there are plenty of qualified candidates in the sectors, they aren’t necessarily needed in their home country but will be invaluable elsewhere.
Moreover, businesses in the UK, especially in sectors like healthcare, IT, and manufacturing, have struggled to find skilled professionals locally. International recruitment allows businesses to tap into a pool of experienced candidates who are ready to fill these gaps. The lengthy process of hiring and training domestic workers for highly specialised roles can sometimes be less efficient than hiring an international professional who already possesses the required skills and experience.
Studies suggest international employees work harder
The concern that many employers tend to have with hiring internationally is that it can cause more problems than solutions to their internal processes. Language barriers are the biggest risk, whilst other concerns involve their efficiency in the workplace. However, research has actually suggested that it’s the complete opposite, and they are known to work harder than their British counterparts. Looking at the sacrifices they make, for example they’ve moved from a different country, secured travel arrangements, UK visa application (with evential ‘indefinite leave to remain’ if they wish to remain in the UK) , and contract, their aims are always to impress on the job, dedicating longer hours and being more proactive with their tasks to ensure that they’re efficient.
Many international workers have a strong work ethic driven by their desire to prove themselves in a new environment. Their motivation is often linked to the opportunity to build a better future, support their families, and establish themselves in a foreign job market, many opportunities of which may not be obtainable in their home country. As a result, they are likely to put in extra effort, be more committed, and show resilience in challenging situations.
Global networking opportunities could be available
It’s likely that whilst the international candidate was working in their hometown, they came across many friendly faces and grew their network in the sector. Each of the individuals they would have come across would have their own expertise and knowledge within their specialised sector. Networking is crucial in business all over the world, which means hiring an international candidate can open the doors for potential global networking opportunities. This could help your company expand in different markets and make new relationships with business partners and clients overseas, which you wouldn’t have come across before.
Additionally, international employees often maintain strong connections with professionals in their home countries. These contacts could prove to be valuable for business development, finding suppliers, or even establishing partnerships abroad. By hiring international employees, your company gains access to their global perspective and business networks, which can lead to further expansion and growth opportunities.
Expand your business into multi-national markets
Not only can international candidates potentially provide new clients and business relationships to you, but there’s also a newfound knowledge of markets that you wouldn’t have had before. They’ll be able to provide ideas of how you can break into markets overseas and provide insight into different cities and cultural differences that you’d need to be aware of. For example if you are a multinational dental practice looking to open up a Collingwood Dentist, an Australian worker may be able to build better rapport with Australian commercial property owners, and further secure the best location for your business.
Many businesses that expand internationally struggle with understanding the cultural nuances, consumer behaviours, and legal requirements of different countries. An international hire can provide firsthand knowledge and guidance, making it easier to navigate these challenges. Whether it’s adapting marketing strategies, understanding international trade laws, or even building a local customer base, an international candidate’s insights can be invaluable.
Furthermore, with an increasingly globalised economy, businesses that incorporate an international perspective into their operations are more likely to thrive. Employees from diverse backgrounds bring fresh ideas, alternative solutions, and creative approaches to problem-solving that could give your company a competitive edge.
Bring a diverse culture to your business and how it operates
We’re not saying that hiring international candidates will completely influence the structure and culture of how your business operates. It’s likely you’ll already have methods and processes in place that help to create your company ethos and values. But if you think about it, how one business operates in the UK, the same business could operate completely differently in Beijing. International workers can bring with them their experiences of unique working cultures they’ve had and potentially improve how your original business model works if they’ve felt it’s worked well where they’ve been previously.
A diverse workplace fosters creativity, innovation, and a broader range of perspectives. Having a team with different cultural backgrounds and experiences allows businesses to approach challenges in unique ways. It also enhances the overall employee experience by promoting inclusivity and mutual learning. Employees are more likely to develop a deeper understanding of global markets, consumer preferences, and cultural sensitivities, all of which can contribute to long-term business success.
Additionally, a diverse workforce can boost employee morale and engagement. Studies have shown that employees working in culturally diverse environments tend to be more open-minded, adaptable, and collaborative. These qualities help build a more positive workplace culture and increase employee satisfaction and retention rates.
Conclusion
International recruitment should no longer be seen as a challenge or a last resort but instead as a strategic move for businesses looking to grow and thrive in a competitive job market. From hiring experts that are best found in specific geolocations to mass hiring and training employees from overseas online to work in new international locations, hardworking employees who enhance workplace efficiency, the benefits of hiring international candidates are endless.