4 SIMPLE STEPS A HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGER CAN TAKE TO HELP THEIR FOREIGN WORKERS

1.         Welcome

Give a “Welcome to the U.S.A.” package to newcomers.  It shows that you are aware of the major change they have made in their lives.  It projects your concern for their well-being, not only in the business place, but also in the greater picture, their new country.

Prepare a guide to the city.  Combine information from the Yellow Pages, the Chamber of Commerce and other appropriate sources.  Add a map and you will have a City Guide.

The learning-curve in adjusting to the American lifestyle is longer than most people think it is and there are many pieces to the puzzle.

2.         Goals of the Business

Explain the long-range mission of the business. This gives a greater sense of destiny to newcomers in the organization.  It provides a feeling of belonging in the enterprise with a view to a goal.  At an emotional level, it embraces newcomers into the business enterprise. 

This is what will spark newcomers thinking “out of the box”.  They will view the objectives of the business with the benefit of their diverse experience.

3.         Duties of the Position

This should be standard policy for all employees.  It defines the expectations from workers.  A recruitment advertisement is general and is designed to throw out a net to get the most talented people to apply for the position.  When you ultimately hire someone, it is essential to be specific about the duties for that particular person’s talents.

4.         Buddy System

Create a system of mentors.  Fellow workers who are prepared to guide and direct newcomers.

It will be a comfort zone, especially when everything in a person’s life, from soap powder to currency, has changed.  Your immediate intervention by introducing a newcomer to a mentor shows that you care and have taken the initiative in this regard.