Why Global Mobility Business Cases Rarely Convince the People Who Matter

Episode Description 
In this episode, Ben explores why Global Mobility business cases often struggle to resonate outside the function. Rather than arguing that business cases “fail,” the episode unpacks common structural issues: hidden assumptions, inward-looking logic, and a focus on activity rather than impact. It then outlines how Global Mobility professionals can build cases that speak to decision-makers and support better outcomes.

What This Episode Covers 
• why many Global Mobility business cases miss their intended audience

• common hidden assumptions that weaken proposals

• the difference between describing activity and demonstrating impact

• why narrative matters as much as data

• how to frame business cases around decisions, not solutions

Three Key Takeaways 
• start with the decision you are asking for, not the solution you want to implement

• make assumptions about value and contribution explicit rather than implicit

• translate data and evidence into implications, risks, and trade-offs that matter to leaders

Key Insight 
Strong Global Mobility business cases are not about defending the function. They are about helping decision-makers understand why a specific choice matters now, what happens if nothing changes, and what becomes possible if action is taken.

Why This Matters 
As expectations on Global Mobility continue to rise, the ability to build convincing, decision-relevant business cases becomes a critical professional skill. Business cases that connect operational reality with strategic priorities are far more likely to gain traction and influence.

Host 
Hosted by Benjamin Bader, Professor of International HRM and co-founder of MasteringGM®.

Subscribe 
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