4 Tips to Manage your Workforce in Africa
While many businesses relish the idea of global domination, when your Organisation has a worldwide reach, it comes with a unique set of problems. In order to succeed, a solid HR strategy for managing a global workforce is required, especially if you are trying to enter the African continent.
The opening up of trade barriers and the free movement of goods and services is seen by many as a sign of economic progress, but one which does not come without its own set of complications. More and more Organisations are putting their efforts into establishing a global expansion and tap into new markets. However, to succeed, their pursuit of international growth has to concentrate on one major component: the ability to hammer out a globally consistent employee management plan.
Tips to better manage your workforce in Africa
There are many things to bear in mind when managing a geographically dispersed workforce. While some of them are cultural, others are practical.
Here are a 4 key points to consider when managing your workforce in Africa:
1. Beware of culturally appropriate communication and non-verbal business etiquette.
It’s essential for management in new locations to understand the local customs and accepted behaviours. What could be deemed ‘normal’ in a US office may be considered anti-social elsewhere. A thumbs-up in the Middle East, for example, is akin to swearing. In Japan, laughing with your mouth open is a big no-no. And having one hand in your pocket in Turkey is considered a display of arrogance. These seemingly small cultural nuances could have unexpected and unwanted consequences.
2. Be observant of religious diversity.
Faith is a major pillar when it comes to diversifying the workplace for a global workforce. When it comes to religious diversity, HR needs to address the various requirements in each office. This includes considerations for dress code, leave for holy days, and prayer rooms. Offering workplace provisions for prayer, adjusting policies regarding leave, and building a culture that nurtures respect for other belief systems are integral to managing a global workforce.
3. Implement cultural awareness training within your Organisation:
Managing a global workforce relies heavily on building relationships of trust and understanding. Learning sessions where employees are taught about cultural sensitivity and awareness enable colleagues to appreciate and be mindful of the differences — and similarities — of their global peers.
4. Be on the right side of the law:
of course, different countries have different regulations, and policy in one country might be 100% unlawful in the next. With that in mind, it is imperative that labour laws are adhered to — and all employees are treated legally. Pro tip: To avoid any compliance issues when hiring in Africa, use an Employer of Record Service.
TAPPING INTO THE AFRICA MARKET THE SMART WAY
Africa HR Solutions offers a full range of reliable services to facilitate your workforce management on the African continent. Our Employer of Record services in Africa enable you to:
- Hire people on the African continent without a registered entity
- Complete payroll rundown and management
- Central point of contact for all your queries
- Guaranteed compliance to local laws
- Professional indemnity and employer liability
