In this candid conversation, we dive into the transformative journey of Acumen International, exploring the nuances of adapting to a hybrid workforce model and the strategic moves that set the company apart in the global employment solution arena. Abid Hamid, Non-Executive Director at Acumen, shares his first-hand insights with a blend of professional acumen and personal flair.
Q: Can you share a brief overview of the global meet-up in Cyprus and how it symbolised a new chapter for Acumen International?
A: Cyprus was an opportunity for our dispersed team, scattered by the war in Ukraine, to come together. It was a rare chance for face-to-face connections that we’ve been missing, making it more than just a corporate meet-up. It marked a new chapter of resilience and unity.
Q: What were the key challenges and triumphs experienced by Acumen in relocating the team and adapting to remote work over the past two years?
A: No one has a continuity plan for war breaking out. But we adapted to it incredibly well. Anyone who wanted to move could do so. We ended up scattered across the globe. And yet, the business didn’t just survive; it thrived. That’s a testament to our resilience. Despite everything, we supported our clients without missing a beat, showing the true strength of our business fabric.
Q: What crucial learnings from Acumen’s remote work adaptation can you pass on to businesses currently exploring or optimising remote workforce models?
A: After AI, remote work is probably the most talked about item at board meetings across the world, but the problem when expanding internationally, is how to retain a culture. With Acumen’s Global Payroll Calculator (GPC), the world becomes your talent pool. Imagine you’re a US company needing web developers. With the GPC, you input your budget, and you can compare five different countries instantly. It’s like having the world at your fingertips, offering you the best talent, regardless of geography.
I think the only problem we have, is that while you can hire anyone from anywhere, maintaining company culture becomes the new challenge. Ensuring that someone joining from halfway across the world feels as connected and invested as someone in your local office is critical.
The advent of remote work has levelled the playing field regarding cultural differences. Entering a new market, such as opening an office in India or Malaysia, for instance, brings its own set of challenges and learnings. But remote work has, in many ways, made understanding and bridging these cultural gaps easier. The key lies in not just leveraging tools like the GPC for global hiring but in deeply investing in the cultural integration of your global workforce.
Q: Following Acumen’s launch of the Contractor Solution to support the global trend of hybrid workforces, how do you envision companies effectively leveraging a mix of freelance and full-time talent?
A: The future is hybrid, no doubt. With Acumen’s Contractor Solution, we’re essentially giving expanding businesses a new toolkit. Whether you need someone for six months or a permanent team member, we’re providing global employment solutions for all options. Our expertise in knowing the legalities and nuances of 190 markets can help our clients make informed choices. Many countries, especially around Europe, have strict rules when it comes to contracting, so it’s important that our clients understand this and can see all the best options available.
We’re not just offering services; we’re enabling decision-making with a comprehensive understanding. It’s about flexibility, but also about compliance and making the right decision for your needs.
Q: With the evolving nature of work, what strategies do you recommend for businesses to remain agile and competitive in leveraging global talent?
A: Talent is what makes a company grow. Today, you’re not limited to your local talent pool; you’ve got access to talent across the whole world. But diving into global hiring is not just about finding cheaper alternatives; it’s about finding the best fit for your needs. The right partner can demystify the process, ensuring compliance, quality, and cost-effectiveness. It’s about broadening your horizons and making choices that align with your strategic vision.
Acumen can step in to de-risk the global hiring process. We offer tools and insights that simplify complex decisions, like choosing between hiring locally or venturing into new markets like Chile or Bulgaria. Our job is to remove the intimidation factor from global hiring, ensuring compliance with regulations, transparency, and quality every step of the way.
Q: What advice would you give leaders managing the transition to a hybrid or fully remote workforce model?
A: Dive deep and understand what you’re getting into. Don’t shy away from seeking help. The shift to remote or hybrid models is laden with nuances—from legal and tax implications to cultural integration. It’s about understanding the playing field and making informed decisions. Markets like South Africa offer highly skilled, English-speaking specialists available in the same time zone at a lesser cost than someone in the UK. Find a specialist like Acumen who can talk you through it and find a solution that works for you. And remember, cost isn’t the sole factor; it’s the value that matters.
Q: How does Acumen plan to support businesses in navigating the shift towards more flexible, hybrid workforce models in the coming years?
A: At Acumen International, our approach goes beyond offering mere global employment services; we offer full consultation solutions. With over two decades under our belt, we are committed to education, risk management, and strategic advice. Throughout this, we have navigated the complexities of global employment, enabling us to offer unmatched insights and practical advice.
This vast amount of knowledge we have, allows us to guide businesses with confidence, backed by real-world proof points of our expertise. Whether it’s explaining the intricacies of compliance across different jurisdictions or tailoring workforce solutions that fit a company’s unique needs when entering a new market..
When you engage with Acumen, you’re not just leveraging our services; you’re tapping into a rich history of expertise and a proven track record.
Reach out to us if you need assistance.