New research from King’s College London focuses on how employers can help refugees and asylum seekers find work and thrive in the workplace.
More than 26 million refugees and asylum seekers worldwide face significant barriers to decent employment. This study examines steps employers can take to support these individuals and ensure their success at work.
Support into work
The research team interviewed 37 refugees and asylum seekers in Australia, along with 35 managers who supervise or assist them, to understand common challenges and effective solutions. They identified several successful strategies in areas such as recruitment, training, inclusive practices, meaningful work, and well-being.
Traditional online recruitment processes, which often use complex language and multiple steps, are generally ineffective. Instead, work experience placements can help refugees demonstrate their abilities and compensate for a lack of local experience. Some employers use a “flipped” recruitment process, starting with interviews rather than filtering candidates by paper qualifications. Others benefit from having ethnically diverse recruitment panels.
Partnerships with non-profits focused on refugee job prospects can also be beneficial. These organizations have the resources to identify, train, and prepare skilled refugee job seekers for the local workforce.
Tailored support
Once employed, refugees often need tailored training, including English language skills and cultural competency, to help them adjust to local norms. Industry-specific training, such as learning local occupational health and safety regulations, may also be necessary.
Refugees from “high power distance” cultures, where proactivity is less common, may need encouragement to adopt a more proactive approach at work. Organizations should consider the needs of new colleagues and ensure managers help them adapt to local communication norms.
Mentoring, networking opportunities, and initial managerial support are crucial for helping refugees adapt. However, a tailored approach is necessary, as refugees have diverse backgrounds and circumstances.
Skills alignment
Matching refugees with work that aligns with their skills and qualifications is important. Starting in entry-level positions can sometimes be beneficial, allowing individuals to meet their own expectations before advancing.
A key finding was the importance of recognizing refugees’ mental health and the intertwined challenges of economic instability, health issues, and housing insecurity. Trauma from past experiences and ongoing visa uncertainties can impact personal well-being and work performance.
“Creating an inclusive workplace for refugees requires going beyond job placement to adopt a holistic approach that includes tailored recruitment, targeted training, and a focus on well-being,” the authors conclude. “By addressing the challenges refugees face, organizations can foster an inclusive environment that supports refugee employees and enhances overall performance.”
