Policy Brief 269 - Human resources – central to the internationalization of French companies
The Centre d'analyse stratégique recently published policy brief 269:
Human resources,
central to the internationalization of French companies
By questioning why so few French “SMCs” integrate in global markets, the Centre d’analyse stratégique and International Pramex highlight the role of companies’ individual characteristics with the characteristics of their country of origin or their industry. What are the factors that facilitate the international development of French companies?
An analysis of a group of about 12 000 independent companies and French organizations during the period 2002-2007 reveals that the degree of internationalization of a company is connected to the skill qualifications of the workforce employed. An increase in employees’ skills appears to be a prerequisite for exporting and making direct investments abroad. The policy brief also shows that the use of foreign suppliers enables companies to improve their knowledge of foreign markets and the efficiency of their production process, thus promoting the transition to becoming an exporter.
Based on these findings and a clear empirical analysis, the Centre d’analyse stratégique has made two proposals to promote the internationalization of French companies based on a valuable resource: human capital.
1. Establish a competence center in connection with higher education institutions in the region of each of the future export sectors.
2. Develop collective action-oriented organizational change management for “SMCs” within approved joint organisms in the international expansion process.
About Pramex International
Pramex International is the consulting firm for International Development at the BPCE, the second largest banking group in France.
To assist client companies in their development, Pramex International relies on two strong pillars:
- an integrated global operational network, composed of consultants specializing in various sectors for the development of a company, and present in 15 countries;
- in Paris and in its regions, a network of consultants work on the whole process of internationalization of companies.
It is a leading banking firm, which gives it access to major financial institutions around the world.
Press Contacts:
Jean-Michel Roullé, Head of Communicaitions
jean-michel.roulle@strategie.gouv.fr
Tél. : +33 (0)1 42 75 61 37
Jonathan Lorrillard, Communication officer
jonathan.lorrillard@strategie.gouv.fr
Tél. : +33 (0)1 42 75 60 39