There is a certain allure to living or even holidaying abroad. The sheer idea of broadening horizons is reason enough to open up airline websites and browse for ticket and accommodation deals.
However, one key barrier to packing up and going overseas is the notion of work. On one hand, attending a 9-5 job may preclude people from being able to go overseas. On the other hand, monetary constraints surrounding work may be a factor.
What if there was another way? With different career pathways opening up to and even championing the idea of sending workers overseas, the time is right for those looking to indulge their passion of living amongst another culture.
How working abroad can boost your career
Business etiquette varies from country to country. With the working world becoming more global than ever before, workers with overseas experience are becoming an attractive commodity.
This means that those with overseas working experience are better positioned when it comes to interviewing for jobs. It also means that existing workers are afforded more opportunities to relocate to an overseas branch in order to gain new experiences.
Working abroad and embracing the inherent challenges gives workers three key attributes- intellect, psychological capital and social capital. Intellect comes from experiencing a new culture and how they do business.
Psychological capital comes from withstanding the mental and physical pressures of moving away from family, friends and a comfortable lifestyle. While social capital stems from learning how to communicate on a different scale and yet still being efficient and effective.
Perhaps the biggest advantage is that workers with overseas experience will have a wider range of contacts. This may come in handy when it comes to completing business deals. It also gives workers a connection that can share information about emerging trends.
The best career sectors for overseas work
Overseas work was once seen as a golden opportunity for those working in the hospitality or tourism industries. However, in an increasingly globalised economy, more sectors than ever before are opening their doors to international opportunities.
For example, being able to put down overseas work on a resume is seen as a key asset for those in the financial sector. Thanks to the pace of globalisation and an emerging middle class in other countries, finance professionals are needed in these sectors and cultures.
For those working in healthcare, there are ample opportunities overseas. Workers could find roles in the public or private sector and gain access to new and different approaches to medicine.
Teachers can also find a wealth of opportunities overseas. From private tutoring in order to help students learn a new language to working in post secondary institutions, teachers can both help students learn and be exposed to new learning opportunities themselves.
5 things to consider when moving overseas for work
Working overseas is often a dream come true for those looking to broaden their horizons. However, there are certain practical elements that need to be accounted for, otherwise, the move can prove quite difficult.
Firstly, it’s important to think about the legal aspect of making a move overseas. As nice as it would be to pack up and go, those looking to work abroad will need a working visa and importantly, to understand the rights and limitations associated with this type of visa.
Step two involves taking the time to understand the financial implications of such a move. With changing currencies and tax deductions, how much is the new salary exactly? Will it be enough to cover moving expenses as well as accommodation and food?
Next, consider aspects of health and safety. Depending on the destination, things like vaccines may be necessary. Additionally, it might be wise to invest in travel insurance that can cover everything from canceled flights and family emergencies to lost luggage.
Step four should include assessing working conditions. Different countries have different attitudes to work. Some approach work in a laid back fashion while others view work as the be-all and end-all. As such, it’s worth looking into working hours and holiday allowances.
Another important practicality to consider is culture shock. While the idea of moving and living overseas is a dream come true, sometimes the reality can be quite different. To ensure a smooth transition, researching the country, its values and way of life is a good place to start.
Making the move overseas
When contemplating moving overseas, being able to achieve personal and professional goals combine to create a once in a lifetime opportunity. With the pace of globalisation, making the move abroad will no longer hinder career opportunities, but rather, expand them.
With this in mind, it’s never been a better time to ask for a company transfer or move overseas and start anew. Thanks to a little ambition and a lot of research, it could be the move of a lifetime.