For many employers in Bermuda and the Cayman Islands, recruiting internationally isn’t a preference. It’s a necessity.
With relatively small local populations and a strong demand for experienced professionals across industries such as financial services, reinsurance, information technology, and other professional services, finding candidates with the right skills and experience can be challenging.
Hiring and developing local talent remains a priority in both jurisdictions, reflected in their respective recruitment and work permit requirements. However, when suitable candidates aren’t found locally, employers often need to expand their search.
Recruiting Internationally Brings Its Own Challenges
Finding qualified professionals overseas is only part of the process. Identifying those who are genuinely interested in relocating to the islands is another challenge altogether.
While much of the appeal of living and working in Bermuda or the Cayman Islands is obvious, candidates also need to consider the more practical realities of making such a move.
The tax advantages of living and working offshore can be particularly attractive, but housing, healthcare, and the higher cost of living can all influence the decision. Understanding how take-home pay and living expenses compare with those at home is a key consideration for anyone evaluating an opportunity.
The circumstances surrounding a relocation can also vary considerably between candidates. Personal and family considerations, such as a spouse’s employment prospects and schooling requirements, can influence how straightforward the move may be, both for the employer and the candidate.
For employers, there’s also the added complexity of work permits and moving arrangements, along with the risk that a candidate may ultimately decide against moving or, perhaps even more concerning, leave after only a short time.
More Than the Resume
Beyond finding someone with the right qualifications and experience, it’s important to understand what candidates are hoping to gain from relocating and whether the opportunity is a good fit for their personal and professional goals.
Someone may have exactly the experience an employer is looking for, but that doesn’t necessarily mean relocating offshore will be right for them. Some may be attracted to the idea of making the islands their long-term home, while others may ultimately decide that they’d rather visit than relocate.
Having open and honest conversations with candidates about salary expectations, lifestyle, family circumstances, and the realities of island living is central to the screening process. These discussions can help identify potential concerns early, avoid surprises, and allow both employers and prospective hires to make more informed decisions.
How We Can Help
At Squires Partners, we draw on more than 20 years of experience helping employers in Bermuda and the Cayman Islands recruit experienced professionals from Canada, the UK, and other international markets.
We understand the challenges involved in recruiting from overseas, from identifying qualified candidates who are well-suited to making the move to helping navigate the practical considerations of relocating, including the work permit process.
If you’re an employer having difficulty filling a specialized or senior position, we’d be happy to discuss how we can help.
And if you’re a professional considering a career opportunity in Bermuda or the Cayman Islands, we’d welcome the opportunity to hear from you.