Question

• Why are MNCs looking for alternative forms of international assignments?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of using short-term international assignments?
• Whether or not you would take an international assignment. Why, or why not?

Answer 1

Answer 1)

MNCs are looking for alternative forms of international assignments because of the following reasons:

• It is because of the growing reluctance of traditional expatriates which helps in relocating these traditional expatriates.
• Substantial cost involved in relocation and Dual-career issues are also the reasons for the MNCs to look for alternative forms of international assignments.

Answer 2)

The advantages of using short-term international assignments are as follows:

• They are useful in transferring specific skills. It is useful in problem-solving needs and in scope of multinational projects.
• It requires less bureaucratic effort and also cost-effective. It can be applied timely and more flexible.

The disadvantages of using short-term international assignments are as follows:

• It consists of higher risk of marital problems because of high level of stress.
• Customers are difficult to handle.

Answer 3)

The assignments should be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• It should include the evaluation of both organizational and individual benefits.
• It should include the assessment of post-assignment period not only actual assignment period.