Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of WERC.
The future of the modern world appears bright, as evidenced by the convergence of Gen Z professionals, artificial intelligence, and changing global talent mobility assignment patterns. Understanding this generation’s outlook on international assignments and the role of AI is essential for companies navigating the evolving talent mobility space. Gen Z’s perspective on overseas assignments, with their unique qualities, elevates expectations in today’s environment.
Gen Z, having grown up in a digital age, sees the world as endless. In all facets of work, they are spearheading the push for global experiences, and global mobility function is no different. Key characteristics defining their priorities for overseas assignments include:
- Adventurous Spirit – Gen Z eagerly embraces the challenges and opportunities that international assignments offer, seeing them as a means to expand their horizons and acquire valuable cross-cultural experiences.
- Work-Life Integration – Gen Z prioritizes a harmonious work-life balance and seeks international assignments that allow them to seamlessly integrate their personal and professional lives. Studies show that 77% of Gen Z prioritize work-life balance, and 72% of Gen Z is the most likely generation to have either left or considered leaving a job because their employer did not offer a feasible flexible work policy.
- Technological Savvy – Gen Z expects AI-powered tools and platforms to streamline the logistics and communication aspects of international assignments, enhancing their overall experience. Sixty-five percent of generative AI users are millennials or Gen Z. They are digital natives, making them comfortable with AI-powered technologies and eager to leverage them in every aspect for their international assignment to be fruitful.
- Global Mindset – Gen Z has a strong global perspective, embracing diversity and seeking opportunities to work and connect with people from different geographies and cultures.
- Adaptability – Gen Z is known for its ability to quickly adapt to new environments and navigate the complexities of international assignments with ease.
- Entrepreneurial Spirit – Many in Gen Z possess an entrepreneurial mindset, seeking to create innovative solutions and drive change within global talent mobility.
Expectations of Gen Z from AI-Powered International Assignments
International assignments hold immense appeal, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth. However, with the rise of AI, the traditional approach to these assignments is changing. What follows is how Gen Z might envision AI enhancing their experiences.
- Personalized Support – Gen Z might expect AI-driven platforms to provide personalized support, tailored to their unique needs and preferences throughout the international assignment process.
- Cultural Immersion – Gen Z might seek international assignments that will offer opportunities for deep cultural immersion, facilitated by AI-enabled language translation and cultural awareness programs
- Seamless Logistics – This generation is increasingly looking forward to using AI-powered tools to simplify the logistical aspects of international assignments. These tools will help streamline processes such as pre-briefing, visa processing, and virtual reality navigation to understand the nuances of the new location, assignment package, and benefits simulations, arranging housing and transportation, as well as settling into the new surroundings.
- Remote Collaboration – With AI-powered communication and collaboration tools, Gen Z expects to maintain strong connections with its global teams and stakeholders during international assignments.
Challenges and Opportunities in Managing AI-Enabled Global Mobility for Gen Z
Navigating the complexities of global talent mobility can be tedious, even with the help of AI. While AI offers exciting possibilities for streamlining processes and personalizing experiences, it also presents unique challenges that need to be addressed.
What follows are some of the challenges associated with managing AI-enabled global talent mobility for Gen Z. By understanding these factors, individuals and organizations can leverage the power of AI to make global mobility experiences smoother, more efficient, and more rewarding.
- Data Privacy Concerns – Gen Z’s heightened awareness of data privacy will require companies to implement robust security measures and ensure transparency around the use of AI-powered tools.
- Ethical AI Implementation – Ensuring AI-driven global mobility solutions are designed and deployed in an ethical and unbiased manner will be crucial to meeting Gen Z’s expectations.
- Seamless Integration – The seamless integration of AI-powered tools with existing global mobility processes will be key to providing a cohesive and user-friendly experience for Gen Z assignees.
The Future of Work: AI, VR, Global Mobility Function, and the Gen Z Assignees
The world of work is undergoing a significant transformation fueled by advancements in AI and virtual reality (VR). These emerging technologies are poised to reshape not only how we work but also how organizations manage their globally mobile workforce. Let’s explore the exciting possibilities that AI and VR present for the future of global mobility:
- Workforce Transformation and AI-Powered Talent Matching – The integration of AI and VR will redefine the role of global talent mobility professionals, shifting their focus to strategic talent management. At the same time, algorithms will revolutionize the process of matching Gen Z talent with international assignments that align with their skills and career aspirations.
- Intelligent Logistics Management with Seamless Experiences – Employees will benefit from a seamless, technology-driven global mobility experience, from initial onboarding to ongoing support throughout their assignment and successful conclusion.
- Agile Adaptation – Global talent mobility programs will become more responsive and adaptable, empowering organizations to navigate the evolving needs of a dynamic workforce.
AI-Powered Innovation in Global Mobility
AI could revolutionize the relocation process, transforming it from a complex ordeal into a seamless, personalized journey. AI-powered tools are expected to automate crucial tasks such as policy mapping, cost estimates, end-to-end deployment plans, immigration pre-scans, visa application support, housing and schooling searches, transportation arrangements, and navigation of local regulations, significantly enhancing efficiency and user-friendliness.
The impact of AI extends beyond mere automation. It could reshape the very core of global mobility strategy and execution with:
- Real-Time Data Accessibility – AI will bring global mobility into the realm of real-time updates and predictive analytics. Assignees will receive instant information about their new neighborhood demographics, from local amenities to live traffic and air quality reports, ensuring they’re always well-informed and prepared.
- Enhanced Predictive Analytics – Advanced AI algorithms will transform trend prediction and management in mobility. By foreseeing potential risks, challenges, and opportunities, companies will ensure smoother transitions and more effective planning for their global workforce. AI-powered predictive analytics will help companies match up the preferences of Gen Z assignees, enhancing their overall experience.
- Intelligent Task Management – AI-assisted task lists will revolutionize assignment management, providing real-time updates on due dates, team member assignments, and task statuses. This level of organization will ensure that nothing falls through the cracks during complex relocation processes
- 24/7 AI Chat Support – AI chatbots will offer round-the-clock assistance for initiating new assignments, updating details, accessing compliance information, scheduling virtual tours, or connecting with human support when needed, providing unprecedented levels of service and responsiveness. For example, MoveAssist International created MAIA, an intelligent chatbot designed to make life easier for employees on assignment and the in-house mobility teams that assist them.
Stakeholder Benefits and Future-Focused Solutions
The AI revolution in global talent mobility has the potential to bring significant benefits to all stakeholders involved in the relocation process. From mobility professionals to businesses and assignees, each group stands to gain from the enhanced capabilities and efficiencies offered by AI-driven solutions.
Gen Z Mobility Professionals
AI will empower mobility professionals with comprehensive data analytics, enabling more informed decisions on employee placements and career progression. Automation of routine tasks like processing relocation packages and visa applications will free up valuable time for strategic initiatives. AI-powered forecasts will provide insights into cost savings, compliance improvements, and employee satisfaction, guiding strategic decisions in global mobility management.
Gen Z Businesses and Managers
For businesses, AI will facilitate improved resource allocation through predictive analytics, ensuring optimal talent mobility. Enhanced communication tools, including AI-powered translation services and chabots, will streamline interactions with assignees. This will lead to more efficient operations and better support for globally mobile employees, ultimately contributing to improved business outcomes and employee satisfaction.
Gen Z Assignees
Assignees benefit from personalized support, with AI providing tailored recommendations for housing, schools, and local amenities based on individual preferences. The simplification of administrative tasks through automation reduces the burden on relocating employees, making transitions smoother and less stressful. Gen Z, growing up with tech, feels overwhelmed by their own data. During a move with tons of documents, AI’s data management tools become appealing to them. Nearly six in 10 Gen Zers are willing to use AI to overcome anxiety. However, transparency and control over their data are still important.
A Balancing Act
AI can transform global mobility, but a cautious and strategic approach is key. Gen Z’s expectations from the future global mobility landscape are driving significant changes in policies, processes, and technology. By embracing flexibility, sustainability, and advanced technological integration, companies can meet these expectations and create a more dynamic and appealing talent mobility environment.