The cosmetics maker’s UK and Ireland operation teamed up with the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) to carry out research on how the increasingly open global economy is having a radical impact on UK workplaces, and found that a quarter of British employees (which is about 6 million people) work in internationally-focused roles.
“In an increasingly borderless market, smart companies are recognising the benefit of using their global presence to facilitate talent and skills,” says Isabelle Minneci, HR Director at L’Oréal UK and Ireland.
“As the UK becomes more culturally diverse, having a ‘globally engaged’ workforce means our employees understand the diverse beauty needs of this market, and develop the most relevant offerings, which strengthens our business.”
The study found that employers are increasingly demanding that employees understand local market operations and business cultures to help drive business growth; with nine in 10 employers seeing employees’ international-outlook, skills and experiences key to improving their bottom line.
Over half of employers also believe that, as a result of taking up international career opportunities employees become more engaged in their role, and are more successful in bringing in new business opportunities.
“Investing in talent to go abroad enables future leaders to develop even stronger international vision and experience, both of which are fundamental in leading teams to win over new consumers, and for sharing our culture and values,” continues Minneci.
“Offering international opportunities to our employees has impacted on retention rates, a critical issue for all UK businesses today.”
Employee encouragement
According to the study, employers estimate that international experience increases an individual’s average gross earnings by 15% within 1-3 years; and employees that are given international opportunities are more likely to stay for almost four years longer than they would have otherwise.
This may be because employees that are given international opportunities believe they are able to progress more quickly within their organisation; and can gain skills such as learning a foreign language; greater awareness of global economic and political issues; as well as tolerance and cultural sensitivity; and the ability to be more flexible.
However, while the research reveals the benefits of international careers, it also states there is a glaring disconnect between employee and employer perceptions on what opportunities are available.
While over half of employers say that the opportunity to achieve an international career is encouraged and incentives to do so are offered to employees, by contract only 22% of employees agree.
Also, while 62% of employers say they speak to their employees about international opportunities, only 13% of employees say this actually happens.