Key Takeaways:

• Dual-career couples often choose split assignments to maintain two income streams and professional identities.
• Isolation is a primary cause of assignment failure in unaccompanied moves.
• Organisations must look beyond relocation costs and evaluate the psychological tax on the workforce.
• Clear pre-departure discussions help align expectations before the assignment begins.
• Structured support for the spouse at home improves long-term retention.
• These assignments require specific policy adjustments to manage travel and communication costs.

Authors:

Rhoda Bangerter is an expert in the human side of international assignments. Her research explores how family dynamics and mental health influence the success of global mobility moves. 

Stefan Remhof is Managing Partner of the People Mobility Alliance and Professor of International Management at IU International University. He possesses extensive expertise in global mobility, expat management, and international assignments.