checklist

This checklist should assist both the individual and the recruiting units on aspects that will need to be considered as part of any exchange / transfer.

1. Eligibility and documentation:
- Verify visa requirements and work permits before applying for the exchange / transfer programme. Consider eligibility requirements (e.g. country of origin, age, qualifications, minimum salary level)
- Ensure passport validity for the duration of the exchange programme

- Pull together documents to take (e.g. medical records, birth certificates, driver's license, marriage certs)
- Obtain necessary medical and travel insurance

- Ensure you bring adequate funds including some currency
 

2. Employment considerations:
- Clarify terms of employment, including duration, role, and responsibilities. Provide key HR policies and procedures
- Discuss salary and compensation adjustments for cost of living differences and additional expenses during the exchange
- Review tax implications and social security contributions

- Review insurance implications
 

3. Cultural aspects
- Research the host country's culture, language, and business etiquette.
- Consider language classes

- Check on the dress code
 

4. Relocation logistics:
- Arrange for housing and transportation
- Arrange for the shipment of personal belongings or storage if required

- Bring required adaptors for electronics

- Obtain sufficient medication to cover until registered with local doctor
 

5. Family arrangements:
- Consider the impact on family members who may or maybe not coming with you, including schooling for children

- Explore spousal support, such as employment opportunities or community engagement

 

1. Settling In:
- Consider meeting employee at the airport or when they arrive in the home town 

- Register with local authorities if required
- Open a bank account and set up necessary utilities including mobile / cell phone
- Register with healthcare facilities

- In case of emergencies have a list of key contacts who could assist you  
 

2. Workplace Integration:
- Attend induction sessions across the new business to understand local processes and procedures, payroll and taxes, health & safety, local culture and customs
- Build relationships with new colleagues and teams
- Set clear objectives and expectations with your host manager

- Consider providing the employee with a welcome gift pack including local treats

- AMG host team to appoint a colleague as a buddy 

- Colleagues to give the employee a tour of the local area to acclimatise the employee and provide assistance on an ad-hoc basis

- Be open to diverse perspectives and respectful of cultural differences in the host unit.
 

1. Communication
- Maintain regular contact with your home AMG unit
- Seek feedback and support from your host manager and peers
 

2. Professional Development:
- Take advantage of learning and development opportunities
- Network within the industry to enhance your professional experience
- Organise a monthly catch-up with the HR team / manager

3. Well-being:
- Ensure you have the correct work-life balance
- Engage in social activities and explore the host AMG unit

- Explore the local area

- If there is an issue speak to your manager / HR team as soon as possible
 

1. Transition Planning:
- Discuss the return process with your home and host AMG units
- Plan for reintegration into your home unit and role
 

2. Knowledge transfer:
- Document your experiences and lessons learned. Review what objectives you wish to set yourself upon your return
- Share insights including best practices with your home team to add value to your organisation

- Share new contacts with your colleagues 

- Share insights with the Diversity Council so we can learn and improve the exchange /transfer       programme

- Consider doing an article in the Loop newsletter