Training aims to improve employees’ current work skills and behavior, whereas development aims to increase abilities in relation to some future position or job. In this chapter, we examine how the international assignment is a vehicle for both training and development. | Chapter 5 Training and development Chapter objectives Training aims to improve employees’ current work skills and behavior, whereas development aims to increase abilities in relation to some future position or job. In this chapter, we examine how the international assignment is a vehicle for both training and development, as reflected in the reasons why international assignments continue to play a strategic role in international business operations. The role of training in preparing and supporting personnel on international assignments is also considered. We examine the following issues: (cont.) 5/ Chapter objectives (cont.) The role of training in supporting expatriate adjustment and on-assignment performance. Components of effective pre-departure training programs such as cultural awareness, preliminary visits and language skills. Relocation assistance and training for trainers are also addressed. The effectiveness of pre-departure training. The developmental aspect of . | Chapter 5 Training and development Chapter objectives Training aims to improve employees’ current work skills and behavior, whereas development aims to increase abilities in relation to some future position or job. In this chapter, we examine how the international assignment is a vehicle for both training and development, as reflected in the reasons why international assignments continue to play a strategic role in international business operations. The role of training in preparing and supporting personnel on international assignments is also considered. We examine the following issues: (cont.) 5/ Chapter objectives (cont.) The role of training in supporting expatriate adjustment and on-assignment performance. Components of effective pre-departure training programs such as cultural awareness, preliminary visits and language skills. Relocation assistance and training for trainers are also addressed. The effectiveness of pre-departure training. The developmental aspect of international assignments and its relation to international career paths. Training and developing international management teams. (cont.) 5/ Chapter objectives (cont.) Reflecting the general literature on this topic, the focus of the chapter is on the traditional, expatriate assignment. However, where possible, we will draw out training and development aspects relating to short-term assignments, non-standard assignments and international business travelers. 5/ International assignments as a training and development tool Expatriates are trainers Expatriates show how systems and procedures work, ensure adoption, and monitor performance of HCNs International assignments a form of job rotation – management development 5/ Figure 5-1: International training and development 5/ Components of effective pre-departure training Cultural awareness programs Preliminary visits Language training Practical assistance Training for the training role TCN and HCN expatriate training Non-traditional
