Best Practices for Attracting and Integrating Foreign Specialists at SILA Union
On January 17, SILA Union participated in the roundtable discussion “Attracting and Employing Foreign Talent in Moscow-Based Companies”, organized by the Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Development of Moscow. The event brought together representatives from leading businesses such as Sberbank, Superjob, Ozon, Avito, as well as government agencies and universities, to discuss the integration of foreign specialists into the Russian economy.
The event was opened by State Duma Deputy Maria Butina and Deputy Head of the Department Maria Bogomolova, who briefed participants on projects aimed at attracting highly qualified foreign workers to Moscow’s economy. During the discussion, key factors influencing companies’ decisions to hire foreign specialists were examined. Participants highlighted the need for unique skills and expertise, as well as the benefits of team diversification, as primary motivations for employers. Foreign professionals bring new ideas and innovative approaches to solving challenges, which is particularly valuable in a globally competitive environment.
During the roundtable, Anna Linkevich, Head of University Relations at SILA Union, shared insights on establishing the company’s international division and the successful integration of foreign specialists. SILA Union actively collaborates with the Moscow Government and federal legislative authorities and is a participant in Start in Moscow, a program by the Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Development designed to attract foreign employees to high-tech companies.
In her presentation, Anna emphasized that creating the international division was a strategic move aimed at expanding global partnerships and export opportunities. The candidate selection process considered both professional competencies and social adaptation.
“We aimed to build a team that not only possesses the necessary expertise but also can effectively collaborate in a multicultural work environment,” she noted.
Adapting foreign specialists is a crucial part of successful team integration. Their ability to quickly adjust and communicate effectively with colleagues directly impacts their efficiency and long-term contribution to the company. Anna outlined adaptation methods that helped new employees seamlessly integrate into the team. She also shared challenges the company faced in hiring foreign professionals and how these obstacles were overcome.
These measures have already proven effective, ensuring successful workforce integration.
“Our company firmly believes in the importance of a multinational work environment to achieve global objectives and is committed to sharing best practices for the successful integration of foreign specialists,” Anna emphasized. “We strive to create conditions that enable us to attract the best talent from around the world.”
