Who is the "Accompanying Partner "AP"?
The past
article looked at TCP’s and TCK’s. Today, I would like to look at who is the Accompanying Partner“AP” during expatriation.
The Cambridge
English Dictionary defines "accompanying" as:
"appearing or
going with someone or something else".
If one adds
Partner to Accompanying, it gives a pretty good overview of how an “AP” and their role can be
perceived by others. Despite the importance of an "AP's" role during expatriation, how many “AP’s, despite their value, have introduced themselves during social
events as the “spouse/partner of X”.
Several other
terms exist to name the “AP”. The term “trailing spouse” was often appropriated
in the past. The earliest citation of the term trailing spouse is attributed to
Mary Bralove in the Wall Street Journal (July 15, 1981) in an article titled
“Problems of Two-Career Families Start Forcing Businesses to Adapt”. Nowadays,
however, spouses/partners who follow the Expat on an assignment abroad may find
this term derogatory. Therefore, “trailing spouse” for those who live the
situation is considered as unattractive and unrealistic of the realities and
responsibilities of this role.
The “AP’s”
demographic profile has been changing over the years in terms of factors such
as sex, education, career history. When one thought of “AP’s” in the past, the
image of a married female who stayed at home was often associated. Although, it
is still largely the case, the number of males following females is increasing,
as well as partners of the same sex.
Research has shown
that the “AP” has often the same level of education as the expat and many have
put their career on hold to follow their partner. They often resign or
take leave from their company.
According to an
International survey carried out by the Permits Foundation:
“Almost 90% of
spouses/partners were working prior to accompanying the expatriate on the
assignment whereas this fell to only 35% in the host location”.
Therefore, if a
large percentage of “AP’s” have put their career on hold to support their
partner, or for different reasons they cannot find employment/or work in the
host country, numerous are those who ask the question concerning their future
career path. This is an issue that can preoccupy their mind during the stay
abroad.
The worries
associated to this can be calmed with prior reflection and anticipation for the
return, to fully enjoy and benefit from the enriching experience of another
country and culture. This is what I propose to develop on in further articles
given my experience and exposure as a former “Spouse of X”.
Continue to value yourself and to recognise the lead role which you play in a successful expatriation. Your participation in the project makes all the difference!
Continue to value yourself and to recognise the lead role which you play in a successful expatriation. Your participation in the project makes all the difference!
1.www.permitsfoundation.com/