25 June 2025
On Valuing EOR Candidates
One of the things I’ve come to realise over the years is that offshore and expat workers are often undervalued. But should they be?
Being an “outsider” usually means you have to prove yourself first, often more than once, before you’re truly recognised or properly rewarded.
In our 15 years of running an Employer of Record (EOR) business, we’ve seen it all:
South Africans being paid well above their local market value, and others who, despite delivering excellent work, earn less than they’re worth.
A Remarkable Talent Pool
South African workers are widely respected internationally. We’re known for being adaptable, resilient, and committed. In fact, some of our most recognisable global names, Elon Musk, Charlize Theron, Trevor Noah, all started here.
And while the world may value these big names, there are thousands of lesser-known South Africans quietly adding enormous value to companies around the world every day.
More Than Just a Cost Advantage
It’s true that hiring through EOR in South Africa often makes financial sense.
Our cost of living is lower than in Europe or the US, which means:
Workers can earn above local market rates,
And businesses can still reduce their payroll costs.
But I believe the real value lies beyond cost.
A Real Story That Stuck With Me
A client of ours recently employed a skilled South African woman at a fair local rate. She then received a counteroffer from a local employer — hard to ignore.
She didn’t really want to leave, and the offshore employer didn’t want to lose her. So they talked. In the end, they doubled her salary. She stayed. And they still came out ahead compared to what a similar hire would have cost them locally.
That kind of outcome stays with you. It wasn’t just a good deal, it was the right thing for both sides.
A Note to Employers
Of course, budgets matter. But so does valuing people.
Especially when they show up, day after day, delivering more than just work, delivering commitment, innovation, and stability.
If I’ve learned anything, it’s this:
When you invest in people, they give you their best.
Let’s Talk
If you’re exploring ways to build a South African-based team through EOR, we are always happy to share what we’ve learned.
We’ve walked this road with many businesses, and we’ve seen what works.
Written by: Roodt Griesel