There are also many smaller companies who are sending workers overseas as they jump into the global marketplace. The ratio for not completing an overseas tour can be as high as 1 in 4 in some foreign assignments. Since it costs a company up to three times a worker's base salary to send him overseas, a failed assignment can sometimes cost a worker his career. While some might think language and culture would be the greatest barrier, Adams says the biggest problems for expatriates involve the family. Because of work rules, trailing spouses frequently have to put their careers on hold.
Children have to adapt to new schools and their leave friends behind.
In some countries there are health and safety issues that make parents hesitate to take their children abroad. Adams says planning and family involvement are critical. He offers numerous ways of getting the family interested and excited. Adams's experience in this area comes from many years of traveling abroad as an international consultant. Today, he travels to Europe twice a month.