Thanks to today’s remote working capabilities, businesses can source talent from all over the world. They are no longer limited by location. They can find the best workers, even if they live across the globe.

However, challenges arise in terms of managing that workforce. Time zone changes, different languages, and the sheer volume of employees can be daunting for the strongest leaders to handle. However, some solutions ensure everyone stays on the same page.

Embrace Inclusion and Diversity

Inclusion and diversity are hot-button issues in every office, but when you employ a global workforce, you need to take it up a notch.

Understanding Global Work Ethics

Employers should go out of their way to research different cultures and their workplace etiquette. For example, in India, arriving 15 minutes late to a meeting is considered on time. In most other countries, that is unacceptable.

In France, workers are not expected to answer emails outside of work hours. The Japanese have a culture of working around the clock.

It’s not inappropriate for Argentinian workers to greet each other with a kiss on the cheek. Chinese workers bow to one another, while American workers shake hands.

Train Employees

Inclusion and diversity teaching must go beyond leadership. All employees in your office must understand different work cultures. This training ensures there are no rifts when international teams collaborate on projects.

You may also familiarize your staff with other cultures by hosting multicultural activities. Offer employee overseas exchange programs. Leaders should also travel to other countries to learn more about their employees’ culture.

Recognize Different Faiths

Leaders must understand that some workers may require a schedule that accommodates their faith. They may need days off work to celebrate holidays. They may require midday breaks for prayer.

Companies should find out about their employees’ faiths and how they may impact their work schedule in advance so they know what to expect.

Complying with Tax and Labor Laws

Employing foreign workers means complying with workers’ local tax laws rather than your own. Failure to do so can lead to fines and penalties.

There are various aspects of employment in which compliance becomes important including payroll, labor laws, and classifications. Consider teaming up with a knowledgeable accountant to ensure these tasks are handled correctly. You may also outsource portions of your compliance needs to align with your worker’s local requirements.

Be Aware of Time Zone Differences

Time zone differences are a global workforce challenge, but companies can overcome them by allowing flexible scheduling. Rather than adhere to your 9-5, know that workers may be working at unusual hours.

Be flexible when communicating with them. If you need to schedule live Zoom meetings, be prepared for an early morning or late-night chat.

Working with the Language Barrier

Companies in English-speaking countries are lucky because many people around the world speak English. However, non-native workers may still face challenges when communicating. You can bridge the gap by providing ESL (English as a second language) support to workers who need it.

You can also do your part by learning key phrases in your workers’ native languages. Combine what you know with non-verbal universal cues like nods and thumbs up. These strategies should make communication easier.

Budget Accordingly

A global workforce typically saves companies money in the long run considering lower salaries. However, you may incur high upfront onboarding and training expenses.

Companies that budget accordingly will prosper financially. Their efforts will also pay off with employee retention and productivity.

Leverage Technology

Leaders may face challenges due to global distances, time zone changes, and communication barriers. Fortunately, several tools make the world a smaller place.

Video conferencing is valuable for meetings. Collaborative workplace tools like Slack and Asana will keep teams on the same page, regardless of their location. You can even access online translation tools that facilitate communication.

Adapt a Flexible Leadership Approach

Integrating a global staff requires a flexible leadership approach. You may find that tried and true methods no longer serve you. You may have to adjust your approach depending on the worker’s culture.

Leaders who put adaptability at the forefront will thrive in a diverse workplace community.

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