Integrating international talent into the workplace takes more than just showing them to their desk. It’s about creating a sense of belonging and well-being. In this article, we share a couple of simple yet effective tips on how to help your new employees get the best possible start at your company.
1. Offer a warm welcome
A first impression can set the tone for an employee’s entire experience at the company. Here are some ideas to make them feel truly welcome:
- Welcome kit with a local touch: Put together a package with both practical and personal items. This could include a city map, a public transport card, a book on Swedish traditions, or even a jar of lingonberry jam or local honey. A thoughtful welcome gift shows that you value their presence.
- Introduction tour: Give them a guided tour of the office and the surrounding area. Show them where to grab lunch, where to get coffee, and how the local public transport works. Tie it to the welcome kit – for example, show them how to use the transport card you provided.
2. Create social opportunities & break barriers
Feeling part of a team is essential, especially for someone coming from a different culture. Here are some ways to build social bonds and make adaptation easier:
- Introduce fika as a social ritual: Fika is not just a coffee break, it’s a way to get to know colleagues in an informal and relaxed way. Since fika may be unfamiliar to international employees, consider organizing a “fika introduction” where you explain the tradition while enjoying some Swedish pastries. Why not serve cinnamon buns and have a fun quiz about Swedish traditions?
- Informal language meetups: If your new colleague wants to learn Swedish, arrange casual language meetups where Swedish and international employees can chat. Set a theme for each session, like “ordering lunch in Swedish” or “small talk at the coffee machine.”
- Family-friendly after-work events: If your new hire has a family, include them in social activities like bowling, a BBQ in the park, or a museum visit. This helps them feel integrated and welcomed beyond the workplace.
- Cultural workshop: Host an introduction to Swedish traditions and workplace norms. Cover everything from how Midsummer is celebrated to what “lagom” means in a professional setting. Make it interactive, perhaps by teaching them how to make a Midsummer flower crown or explaining Swedish drinking songs.
3. Implement a buddy system for support & inclusion
Pairing the new employee with a ‘buddy’ or mentor is a great way to ensure a smooth and inclusive start. A buddy serves as both a guide to practical matters and a bridge for social integration.
- Choose an engaged colleague: The buddy should be a team member who has the time and willingness to support the new hire, both with work-related questions and social interactions. They can help with understanding workplace systems, finding great lunch spots and navigating their role more easily.
- A practical guide to workplace culture: Consider creating a small guide with unwritten office rules, like how the cafeteria works or meeting etiquette.
4. Build long-term relationships through engagement
Integration doesn’t stop after the first few weeks, it’s important to ensure employees continue to feel valued and included long-term.
- Regular check-ins: Schedule follow-up meetings with the new hire to see how they’re settling in. Ask questions like, “What has worked well for you so far?” and “Is there anything we can improve?”.
- Feedback as a dialogue: Encourage them to share what has helped them feel at home and what could be improved. Showing that their input matters strengthens the relationship.
- Social traditions: Establish recurring traditions, like an annual international lunch where employees can share their own culture and cuisine. This fosters diversity and strengthens team spirit.
Prioritizing well-being leads to long-term success
Integrating international talent is about creating an environment where they feel welcomed, supported and seen. By focusing on social relationships, cultural understanding and long-term support, you can enhance their work experience while building a workplace where everyone thrives and grows.
Learn more about how Nimmersion can support your integration efforts here.
