In today’s global workplace, language is often treated as a problem to be solved — a barrier to communication, a source of misunderstanding, or a trigger for status imbalances. But what if we flipped the script? Recent research I’ve conducted with colleagues suggests a powerful and underappreciated truth: language diversity in organizations can be a […]
Assignments FROM Developing Locations: Part 2
As promised in my previous post, today I would like to continue with the topic of challenges raised by assignments from developing locations. In my last entry, I discussed issues such as compensation, family concerns and cultural barriers. However, as indicated by the relevant survey from Brookfield Global Relocation Services (BGRS) this list of challenges […]
‘Englishnization’ of Global Corporations: Strategy is Needed
One of my previous articles touched on the topic of language challenges faced by an internationally mobile workforce and multinational corporations in today’s globalized world. And even though several different solutions for overcoming language barriers are proposed, introducing a single working language is probably the most widely used strategy. Moreover, such unifying business language usually […]
Global Mobility: Facing the Ultimate Language Challenges?
The principle of free movement of people within Europe dates back to the creation of the European Union. The policies of the European Community strive to allow for seamlessly easy and efficient movement of people across borders, be it for holidays, studying or work. Indeed, going for a weekend trip to another EU member state […]