Corporate employees on international assignments rely on support from local employees. These dynamics are underestimated and understudied. Both individuals and employers will benefit if people understand and correct the myths that have grown up around the important role played by local employees.
Missions abroad are very difficult. Doing well in these areas can be a stepping stone to career advancement in multinational companies. Failure can be devastating to expats and their families. A variety of factors contribute to expats over- or under-performing, but it's a secret many are reluctant to admit. — or even recognition — This is the role played by colleagues in the host country in international missions.