Businesses can鈥檛 succeed without continually adding a dynamic workforce. One big reason for this is staff turnover or attrition. The average attrition rate in the USA is between 12% and 15%, while globally it’s around 10.9%. In the past, companies typically hired highly educated individuals to tackle staff losses. But now, businesses are focusing on creating an engaged workforce with international experience.
Creating an inclusive company culture is crucial for hiring and retaining both staff and customers. A diverse team at all levels positively impacts company growth and boosts customer loyalty. Many businesses have adopted strategies like getting sponsor licenses in the UK to quickly integrate international hires. However, just hiring internationally isn鈥檛 enough. Management must foster an inclusive company culture to ensure success. Cultural differences and minor mistakes can become significant obstacles for international employees.
Here鈥檚 how you can build an inclusive culture for international hires:
1. Care about what matters: It鈥檚 important to understand what truly matters to your international employees such as significant events or holidays they celebrate, their cultural and religious traditions, hobbies and interests, and the social causes they support. Organize social events to celebrate diverse traditions and spread awareness.
2. Encourage inclusion: Inclusive environments make everyone feel they belong, boosting creativity and supportive relationships. Celebrate a wide range of cultural differences and traditions, seek feedback from foreign employees to foster inclusivity, avoid selective celebrations, and implement a code of conduct stressing mutual respect.
3. Support: Supporting international employees starts with empathy. Language barriers can be a hurdle, so offering language courses is beneficial. Additionally, provide resources to help with financial, tax, and legal services, finding accommodation and good schools, and exploring local cultural spots.
4. Create a unique company culture: A company culture that only focuses on profits can鈥檛 foster inclusivity. Embracing and celebrating diversity, equality, and inclusion not only builds a rewarding workplace but also makes your company stand out among competitors. Providing the right resources and support for new staff will help create an enviable, inclusive culture.
