Many businesses in the UK face a challenge in finding and keeping skilled workers, especially in industries like healthcare, IT, finance, and engineering. With global competition for talent, companies are not only struggling to hire the right people but also to prevent losing them to other employers. Fortunately, there are several strategies UK employers can use to attract and retain international talent. In this article, we will explore key ways to build a supportive work environment that keeps your sponsored international employees happy and committed.
1. Create an Inclusive and Diverse Workplace
International employees want to feel valued and respected, no matter their background. A truly inclusive company culture promotes diversity and ensures everyone feels welcome. This should be a top priority for the company leadership, not just HR. The CEO and management must actively support inclusivity and make it part of the company’s core values.
2. Offer Competitive Pay and Benefits
While it’s important to meet the visa requirements with a reasonable salary, businesses that pay just enough to get the worker in the door may lose them to a competitor offering more. Research what other companies, both in the UK and internationally, are paying for similar roles. Make sure your pay package is competitive and reflects global industry standards.
Beyond salary, consider offering additional benefits like:
- Performance bonuses
- Profit-sharing schemes
- Stock options
- Extra vacation days
- Professional development opportunities
These extra incentives can make your job offer more attractive and help retain talent.
3. Build a Sustainable and Socially Responsible Business
More than ever, skilled workers want to be part of a business that is socially responsible. Companies that are committed to sustainability, environmental impact, and good governance are often more appealing to top talent. It’s important to show that your company is serious about these issues, not just talking about them.
This means having policies and actions that focus on:
- Reducing your carbon footprint
- Promoting fair labor practices
- Supporting human rights
- Preventing corruption
- Encouraging a diverse leadership team
Being a socially responsible company can help you attract top talent who care about the company’s values as much as their job.
4. Support Your International Employees and Their Families
Relocating to the UK can be a big challenge for international employees and their families. To help them settle in, offer support with moving logistics, finding housing, and settling into their new lives. Additionally, provide guidance on practical matters like transportation, schooling, and healthcare.
For employees on sponsored visas, ensure they understand their visa requirements and the path to permanent settlement in the UK. You may also need to assist with costly immigration fees, such as the healthcare surcharge for dependents. Offering these types of support can make your employees feel more at home and less likely to leave.
5. Create a Fun and Engaging Workplace
Employees want to work in an environment where they feel connected to their team and enjoy their day-to-day work. For international employees, feeling part of the UK culture is an important aspect of settling in.
Here are some ideas to create a fun and inclusive workplace:
- Have team-building activities, such as away days and social events
- Set up a games room or fitness facilities
- Celebrate cultural diversity through themed events or catered lunches
- Recognize birthdays and milestones
- Create a positive and colorful office atmosphere
A workplace that values fun and engagement helps employees feel like they belong, which improves loyalty and retention.
6. Offer Career Progression and New Challenges
One of the main reasons employees leave a company is the lack of career growth. If your international employees don’t see opportunities for advancement or feel their roles are becoming stagnant, they may look for a new challenge elsewhere.
To keep your top talent, offer clear career progression paths and regular opportunities for promotion. Also, ask your employees about their long-term goals and whether they want to take on new responsibilities or work on exciting projects. Providing opportunities for professional development and career growth can make employees feel more invested in the company and its future.
Losing skilled international workers can be costly for any business. To retain your valued employees, it’s essential to create an environment where they feel supported, valued, and motivated. By offering competitive pay, career progression, a diverse culture, and personal support, you can increase the chances of retaining your internationally sponsored talent.
At Law and Visas, we specialize in helping businesses navigate the complexities of immigration and sponsorship. If you’re hiring international talent and need guidance on visa sponsorship or how to create an employee-friendly workplace, contact us for expert advice and support.
