The Missing Link in Employee Happiness That Boosts Assignment Success

Jan de Vries · 2026-07-15

You've invested time and money in setting up an employee overseas. You've checked the logistics, sorted the paperwork, and maybe even helped them find a place to live. But there's one piece of the puzzle that often gets overlooked: their happiness. And here's the thing—employee happiness isn't just a nice-to-have. It's directly tied to how well they perform and whether the assignment succeeds. Let's dig into why this matters and what you can do about it. ### Why Employee Happiness Matters More Than You Think Health and wellbeing support is the foundation of both mental and physical health. When employees feel supported, they're happier. And happy employees are more productive. It's that simple. Our latest research shows that 26% of employers worry their overseas employees might be unhappy and want to return home. Another 19% are concerned the assignment might fail. These fears are valid, but they're also preventable. By providing robust health and wellbeing support, you can boost happiness and, in turn, increase the odds of success. Think about it: a healthy, happy employee is more engaged, more creative, and less likely to call it quits early. That's good for them and good for your bottom line. ### The Holistic Approach You Need Employee happiness isn't just about offering a gym membership or a meditation app. It's about taking a holistic approach that covers mental health, physical health, safety, and career growth. These elements are all connected. Here are the key areas to focus on: - **Mental health support**: Access to counseling, stress management resources, and regular check-ins. - **Physical health support**: Health insurance, wellness programs, and ergonomic workspaces. - **Safety protocols**: Clear guidance on everything from traveling alone to emergency procedures. - **Career development**: Opportunities for growth, training, and clear paths to advancement. When you address all these areas, you create an environment where employees can thrive. And thriving employees are more likely to stay and succeed. ### The Challenge of Compliance Across Borders One of the trickiest parts of supporting overseas employees is navigating different regulations. Each country has its own rules about mandatory health and wellbeing support. It can feel overwhelming, but ignoring it isn't an option. > "Compliance isn't just about avoiding fines—it's about showing your employees that you care enough to get it right." If you're unsure about the requirements in a specific country, seek expert advice. It's an investment that pays off in employee trust and legal peace of mind. ### What the Data Says Our research reveals some eye-opening numbers: - 47% of employers say fulfilling business objectives is their top priority for overseas employees. - 41% prioritize career progression. - But nearly a third (32%) don't prioritize health and wellbeing at all. - Only 60% say safety is a top priority. That last stat is concerning. If you're not prioritizing safety and wellbeing, you're not just risking employee dissatisfaction—you might be failing in your duty of care. Yet here's the paradox: 35% of employers are worried about their employees' mental health, another 35% are worried about physical health, and 34% are concerned about personal safety. So the concern is there, but the action isn't always following. ### Turning Concern into Action If you're among those who worry about overseas employees, here's the good news: support is available. You don't have to figure it all out alone. Start by reviewing what you currently offer. Ask your employees what they need. Look at the specific risks in each country where you have staff. Then build a plan that addresses those needs. Remember, the goal isn't just to check a box. It's to create an environment where your employees can be happy, healthy, and successful. When you do that, everyone wins.