The PPT is for reference purpose.

1. Strategic Human Resource Management – KMB HR04
Topic: Leadership and Strategic Issues in
International Assignments (Part 1 of 2)
ACHLA TYAGI, ABES EC (032), AKTU, LUCKNOW

2. Need for International Assignment
The reasons for an international assignment include the following:
1. For filling-in a need in an existing operation.
2. For transferring technology (to the client's worksite).
3. For developing an individual's career through challenging tasks in an
international environment.
4. For analysing the international market to see whether the company's
products or services will attract clients and users.
5. For launching a new product or service.
The objective of the international assignment will determine the
assignment's length and help identify potential candidates.
ACHLA TYAGI, ABES EC (032), AKTU, LUCKNOW

3. The problems with International Assignments most cited
by Companies are Summarised in the following table:
ACHLA TYAGI, ABES EC (032), AKTU, LUCKNOW

4. Strategic Issues in International Assignments
To manage international assignments successfully is one of the hardest
area for HR to dwell in. the cost involved in accomplishing such
assignments is also quiet high. Selecting the right person, preparing the
expat and the family, measuring the employee's performance and
repatriating the individual at the end of an assignment require a well-
planned, well-managed program.
Knowing what to expect from start to finish as well as having some
tools to work with can help minimize the risk involved in International
Assignments.
ACHLA TYAGI, ABES EC (032), AKTU, LUCKNOW

5. Strategic Issues in Management of International
Assignments
• Assigning the right kind of international manager to the right position, at
the right time
• Designing international HR practices for balancing generic and local needs
on the one hand, and control, coordination, and autonomy needs on the
other
• Establishing balance between global competitiveness and reactiveness to
the local environment’s peculiarities
• Identifying the needs for international personnel with a high degree of
precision
• Strategic management of international assignments and of international
personnel at the lowest cost: what type of international employee must be
chosen, and to fulfil which position? Which type of contract must be
drafted?
ACHLA TYAGI, ABES EC (032), AKTU, LUCKNOW

6. A Model for the Strategic Management of
International Assignments (Source: Waxin 2008a)
ACHLA TYAGI, ABES EC (032), AKTU, LUCKNOW