Barometer Expat Communication 2021 survey N°1: How are expatriates doing post-pandemic?

You are a company and want to know more about the barometer board?

Results of survey n°1: Weather for expatriates and spouses

One year after the start of the pandemic, how are expatriates doing?

One year after its beginning, the pandemic has affected the whole world and redistributed the cards of expatriation as well as the organization of work. It was therefore urgent to take stock. This is the purpose of this first survey of the Expatriation Barometer 2021.

How do expatriates live this situation, what is the impact on their morale?
We collected nearly 1,000 responses to this first survey, which was relayed to over 92 countries.

This broad dissemination allows us to draw a strong andan accurate analysis of expatriate’s morale.

Between fatigue and resilience

Expatriation rhymes with adaptation and once again, this is true. The morale of expatriates and spouses remains correct with strong disparities between men, women, employees and spouses (all genders combined) and the geographical area of expatriation.

Out of an average of 100, the morale of all respondents is 61. This is at least 20 points below the level found in previous studies.

“We have adapted to the situation to avoid sinking and to give the children hope for the future.”
“One day at a time” seems to be the motto of expatriates today, a proof of resilience in this ever-changing environment.
“Overall, we are doing well. We miss the lack of prospects, travel, being able to go to France, seeing friends. And some days, it weighs more “

What is clear is the difference between the collaborator and the spouses.

Employees (male and female) have higher morale than spouses: 64 versus 55. Being in charge of the expatriation is an asset to keep optimism and especially the levers of the continuation of the mobility.
The spouse is in a situation more passive, he has less control over the data. We will discuss the spouse’s view in more detail after our analysis of this month’s survey dedicated to them.

Disparity in expatriate morale by expatriation zone.

As shown on the map, two continents seem more pleasant to live in and the morale of expatriates is higher:Africa and South America. Is it easier in the sun? A notable exception: France has a particularly high level of morale among its expatriates with a score of 70/100.

The impact on the work rhythm has an inverse effect on morale. Working less often means job loss or reduced activity due to the health context.
Telecommuting is also reflected in lower morale levels. There is a growing need for social interaction.

“Following telecommuting, I work more than usual and mix my private and business life”.
“The flow of information and interactions that have been in place for almost a year now (online meetings, emails, phone etc…) do not replace real (face-to-face) contact.”
“I never expected to be so eager to get back to an office and professional space full of colleagues!”

Confidence in the future

This is a strong indicator that catches our attention, the level of confidence in the future is low: 42/100.
This lack of short-term visibility, 6 months, shows that the morale of expatriates and spouses at a given time can be correct but the set of indicators are not not at ease.
We make an appointment with you to take the temperature of the expatriation in 6 months.

The bottom line

We will remember that expatriates oscillate between fatigue and resilience. Their level of morale remains correct but the high level of concern indicates that tension is reaching high levels.

The paradox of this situation is obvious: evolving from day to day without being able to project into the future.

“Everyday, I reinvent myself to survive”
“The concern comes from the lack of perspective”

Faced with this situation, companies have three priorities:

Identify expatriates and expatriate spouses in vulnerable situations
Adopt a very delicate communication, taking into account that some expatriates are doing well and others are facing great difficulties. It is necessary to adopt a fair tone to recognize the particular effort made by expatriates, and the equally real difficulties of employees who remain at headquarters.
On their return, to value the loyalty of expatriates in these exceptional conditions and to accompany them in their return in a profoundly transformed context.

Take the current survey

The questionnaires are available in French or English. This link is accessible from your computer, tablet or phone.

Duration of the questionnaire: about 5 min

Your answers are treated confidentially, and if you wish to receive the results directly and answer our future surveys, you will be redirected at the end of the questionnaire to a second link to guarantee the anonymity of your answers to our survey.

Your participation is essential, thank you in advance for taking time to respond.