As the nature of work and attitudes towards work evolves, we may see the rise of globally mobile individuals in the future. Given their increasing importance in the workforce, we should understand their unique motivations and characteristics, to better support their needs.

Our latest Vitality Study found that globally mobile individuals had higher-than-average vitality scores despite a higher incidence of stress. Our key takeaways include:

• One in five globally mobile individuals achieve the highest levels of vitality.
• Their higher-than-average overall vitality is driven by social and occupational vitality.
• Despite higher vitality scores and better mental well-being, the globally mobile face concerning levels of stress and burnout.

Titled "Newcomer Needs – How the Globally Mobile Work and Live," the report shows that globally, globally mobile individuals have an average vitality score of 71.7, compared to the overall average of 68. Based on a measurement of eight dimensions of well-being (social, occupational, financial, intellectual, physical, spiritual, emotional, and environmental), “vitality” is a comprehensive measure of people’s capacity to pursue life with health, strength, and energy.

Challenges faced by Globally Mobile

The study reveals that the globally mobile experience a host of unique lifestyle and professional challenges that come with working and living abroad, contributing in part to their relatively high stress levels (86% compared to 80% among all respondents).

Surprisingly, they are more likely to exhibit better mental well-being (58% reporting excellent or very good mental well-being) compared to the global average (46%), indicating their ability to maintain balance and not allowing stress to impact their sense of wellness – an invaluable skill essential for personal and professional growth. Report also shows that the globally mobile tend to perform better at work and feel better in their work environment compared to all respondents.

Raymond Ng, CEO & Country Manager, Cigna Healthcare Singapore & Australia said: “We continue to see many Singaporeans who have moved abroad and are excelling in their individual fields. As long as there’s a strong foundation to navigate the complexities of international work environments, we believe overseas assignments can benefit Singaporeans immensely through personal and career development and lead to better overall vitality.”

Other key findings from the study include:

• Occupational and social vitality are key drivers of higher overall vitality: Globally mobile individuals report being 10% more likely to build strong connections and 12% more energetic and enthusiastic at work. They also score highly in intellectual (value learning new things) and environmental vitality (know places they can go in which they feel safe and well).
• Despite their satisfaction, challenges persist: Most globally mobile individuals are satisfied with their relocation. However, financial difficulties, homesickness, work/life balance, and health-related issues persist as common challenges for globally mobile individuals, with 77% encountering at least one challenge in the past six months.
• Healthcare and advice on health insurance rank high on desired support: Aside from assistance with employment (40%) and housing (33%), healthcare support such as assistance with navigating the local healthcare system (28%) and advice on health insurance options (22%) are highly important to the globally mobile. Seven in 10 respondents wish they have more support from their employers to lead a healthier life.

“To support employees who are pursuing overseas opportunities, employers need to establish robust support mechanisms encompassing various well-being factors, including physical, mental, occupational, and more. By doing so, organizations not only help globally mobile employees lead healthier lives but also empower this unique workforce to thrive in their roles and contribute to organizational success,” Raymond Ng added.

Download the full Vitality Study here. [PDF]