The Silver Lining: Bringing Talent Back

Let’s be honest — these days, it feels like the world is holding its breath. The uncertainty we’re facing right now is nerve-racking, almost as if we’re back in those unpredictable COVID days. Worldwide markets are shaky, global leadership is shifting (even the Vatican has a new leader), and all of this uncertainty is hitting the economy hard. And when the economy takes a hit, so does the workforce, especially in North America, where the United States, Canada, and Mexico all have new leaders in control. This wave of change has sparked major policies like new tariffs and mass deportations, stirring up controversy across the globe. But here’s where it gets interesting: While some countries are scrambling, others — like Canada and Mexico — are already rolling out Plan Bs to shield their economies and protect their citizens.

Now, I’m not a politician. But as a business owner, HR specialist, and a former United Nations employee, I’ve learned to always look for the silver lining. Because even in the most challenging moments, there’s always opportunity — especially when it comes to talent.

But what are some of the positive impacts of Mexican talent returning to Mexico amid new tariffs and deportations. If the US government were to implement new tariffs and intensify deportations, it could create significant shifts in both the United States and Mexican labor markets. While these actions might have negative economic effects, there is a silver lining for Mexico: the potential return of Mexican talent from the United States to Mexico. These individuals, many of whom possess valuable skills, knowledge, and experience, could contribute to Mexico’s growth and development in ways that benefit both the economy and society. How? Many of the Mexican nationals who have worked in the United States for years are highly skilled in industries such as technology, manufacturing, and service sectors, and they have often been exposed to cutting-edge processes, innovations, and management techniques in these fields.

These returning workers have gained practical experience and insights that can benefit the Mexican workforce. Their knowledge of advanced technology, business practices, and leadership techniques will help elevate the Mexican labor market. For instance, experienced workers who have worked in the automotive, aerospace, or IT sectors in the United States can bring their expertise to Mexican companies that are expanding in these industries.

Take Nissan, for example. It has announced plans to shut down their plant in Argentina and move operations to Mexico. Another example is Amazon Web Services in the tech sector. It will be investing in Mexico and creating at least 7,000 jobs this year. That means more job opportunities are coming our way even if other automotive and American businesses might be leaving.

Best of all, most of this returning talent will be bilingual. Frankly, finding truly bilingual candidates in Mexico, especially those who speak and understand English well, isn’t easy. And it’s not just US companies looking for English-speaking talent here. More and more international companies from Europe and Asia are turning to Mexico for recruitment too, especially with new trade partnerships in the near future. So not only will we benefit from returning Mexican citizens with expertise in certain sectors, we will be receiving bilingual candidates that can now cater to many other foreign companies in Mexico.

Now, what can CEOs or HR Specialists do to maximize these opportunities? Both the Mexican government and private sector should focus on creating pathways for returning talent to integrate quickly and effectively into the workforce. This could include recognition of foreign degrees, entrepreneurial support, and targeted recruitment efforts for high-skilled returnees. If your company requires them to have a Mexican degree, then there are several institutions approved by the Mexican Ministry of Education (SEP), such as CONAIP, where you can earn a certified degree based on your work experience. All you need to do is pass an exam at your own pace. While many employers already offer this opportunity to their current employees, you can now extend it to future hires as well, especially those who have studied abroad or gained valuable international experience that can benefit your company or business.

So, even in uncertain times, Mexico has a big opportunity. The return of skilled Mexican workers means more talent, more experience, and more bilingual professionals ready to help businesses grow. These workers bring valuable knowledge from abroad that can make a real difference in many industries.

At the same time, global companies are reconsidering supply chains and seeking stable, cost-effective markets, with Mexico emerging as a top contender, bringing new jobs and opportunities with them.

With strong support from the government and private sector, we can help returning talent settle in quickly and use their skills to move the country forward.

The silver lining is clear: More talent is coming home, and more companies are coming in. If we support this momentum, Mexico’s future will be full of growth, innovation, and success.