The level of globalisation seen in the last 20 years is not going to go away. Companies need to operate worldwide businesses, and they will continue to do so.

Before, employees were expatriated primarily to export their knowledge and skills to other countries. Nowadays fewer expatriates are needed because companies have built up capabilities in production, marketing, technology, and management, to serve a global network which no longer has a specific home location.

However the need for the development, exchange, and placement of key personnel globally still exists, and the need for increased intercultural understanding has never been greater.

Working successfully in/or managing multicultural teams is a growing focus, along with long-distance management and effective communication strategies.

Family issues will become more important as companies face increasing difficulty in filling overseas assignments. People have to feel secure and their companies need to provide that protection, emotionally and physically, in particular family support.

You are starting a business or working locally, think global and boost your business worldwide ... before it is too late !

Without it, there can be no business as things are getting tighter by the day !