Multinational employers have
begun using “virtual” assignments, with managers using new technology to handle
overseas projects, a study of multinational companies has found.
One fifth of firms in a major survey
of global firms by HR consultancy ECA International have managers running a
project without being based in the country. Video-conferencing is used in 60
per cent of these cases, though frequent visits are also employed.
The development reflects difficulties
in persuading people to take up expatriate placements, particularly in
unattractive locations and where the spouse has a career.
By Philip Whiteley
