Recruiters need to do more to adapt to local cultures and provide training when operating in Asia, according to speakers at Global ERE Expo 2006.

Kevin Wheeler, president of consultancy Global Learning Resources, said: "Recruiters will have to address cultural differences. Many Asians are unwilling to relocate because of strong family ties. Also, companies have too rigid criteria for the people they would like to employ. They will need to invest in education — online universities could be key."

Wheeler said that candidates are currently "in the driving seat". "So companies will have to adapt to what they are looking for. They will have to be flexible," he said.

Wheeler added that recruiters will need to take steps such as redefining jobs, providing mentors and coaches, and encouraging more interaction between candidates and company headquarters.

Elizabeth McFarlan, director of international recruitment at UnitedHealth Group International, told the conference that her company is currently building a team of recruiters in India. It hopes this new group will soon help customers in the US, UK and Europe to source staff.