Why Growth-Stage Startups Should Bet On Immigrant Talent

Relocation opportunities is one of the largest overlooked employee perk for long term talent retention.

As growth-stage startups, typically from Series B to E funding rounds, scale their operations and expand into new markets, hiring and relocating foreign talent can be a game-changer. At this stage, startups usually have around 200+ employees and are seeking to build a robust, innovative workforce to support rapid growth and international expansion.

Economic Contributions and Talent Shortages

Immigrants play a crucial role in filling the talent gaps that many startups face, particularly in high-demand fields such as technology, engineering, and data science. For instance, immigrants constitute nearly 17% of the U.S. labor force and are significantly represented in STEM fields, making up 24% of scientists and engineers in the U.S. By hiring foreign talent, startups can access a broader pool of skilled workers, helping them to maintain their competitive edge and drive innovation.

Cultural and Organizational Benefits

While remote work offers flexibility, in-person collaboration is often more effective for building a strong company culture and fostering team cohesion. Relocating foreign talent instead of hiring remotely can lead to better integration of new employees into the company culture. This is especially important for growth-stage startups where maintaining a cohesive and motivated team is critical for success.

Studies have shown that teams working in close proximity are more likely to engage in spontaneous brainstorming sessions, quickly resolve issues, and build stronger interpersonal relationships. These elements are vital for startups that rely on rapid iteration and close collaboration to innovate and grow.

Gen Z Talent Preferences

For young Gen Z talent, experiences and personal growth opportunities are highly valued. According to a survey by Deloitte, 77% of Gen Z professionals state that they prioritize companies that offer opportunities for travel and diverse work experiences. Relocating young talent to new cities or countries can provide them with enriching experiences that enhance their job satisfaction and loyalty to the company.

Career Progression and Ambitious Talent

A well-structured relocation program not only attracts ambitious talent but also provides significant career progression opportunities. Employees who see clear pathways for global mobility are more likely to stay with a company, knowing they can grow their careers internationally. This not only helps in retaining top talent but also fosters a dynamic and motivated workforce that is crucial for innovation and growth.

Strategic Timing for Hiring Foreign Talent

For growth-stage startups, the optimal time to start hiring foreign talent is usually during the Series B to E funding stages. At this point, the company has secured sufficient capital to invest in the relocation and integration of new employees. Additionally, with around 200+ employees, the startup has likely established foundational HR processes and infrastructure to support international hires effectively.

Outsourcing Mobility Functions

Despite having foundational HR processes, growth-stage startups are unlikely to have developed an in-house mobility function. Outsourcing relocation to a consulting firm can be prohibitively expensive. This is where Gullie (gullie.io) can make a significant difference. Gullie offers a “mobility-in-a-box” solution that productizes the relocation consultant role, making the process seamless, personalized, and affordable. Powered by large language models (LLMs), Gullie simplifies relocation and helps move talent across borders 3x cheaper and faster.

Conclusion

By betting on immigrant talent and opting to relocate them rather than hiring remotely, growth-stage startups can build a more cohesive and innovative workforce. This approach not only addresses the talent shortage in critical areas but also aligns with the preferences of Gen Z professionals, who value experiences and personal growth. As these startups scale and expand into new markets, the integration of foreign talent will be instrumental in driving their success and maintaining their competitive edge.

Have thoughts on global mobility & bringing on international talent to your team? Reach out to me for a chat!