Top 7 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Considering an International Career
With the current economic climate many people are thinking about moving to another country as the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence. But is it really a good opportunity ?
Before considering any big move and start your job search, here are 7 questions you should find an answer to:
1. Is having an international experience a success factor?
Yes, most of the time but expatriation is not the only solution: studies, trainings, international jobs from your country of origin… You have many possibilities to get this international experience on your resume.
2. What is the ideal length for expatriation?
The usual length is from 3 to 5 years. Over five years at the same position you could be stuck, considered being an expert for a given country or responsibility.
In the past, hiring managers used to say that less than 2 years was not worth it. And due to the high cost of expatriation, young candidates were not usually considered because of their lack of experience. But things are changing now. Companies see more and more beginners requesting international jobs and with the changeover to project mode, short missions can be a great opportunity for profiles with high potential.
3. How to choose a country to go to?
Don’t change everything in your life: responsibilities, company, culture… Keep in mind that it will be easier for your own integration if you are familiar with some of your environment. Pick the country which language, habits or working relationships you feel most comfortable with.
4. How to find great international jobs?
Networking, networking, networking! These types of positions are usually available and filled from the headquarters but also from the local offices. You can easily develop connections abroad using some social networking tools like linkedin or viadeo to start your search.
5. What will you accept for your contract?
The golden age of expatriation is over. Chances are you will not get all your expatriating costs paid by your hiring company. Think about what you are ready to pay before starting your negotiations. Like for any other contract negotiations, you should also ask yourself what you want/need for all other aspects of your contract: health insurance, retirement… as many details can vary drastically from one country to another.
6. Are you ALL ready for disorientation?
Family is very often the main reason for failure. Is everyone supporting you? Is your spouse part of the project? It is never too early to have an in depth conversation about what it means for all the members of your family.
7. And after that what’s next?
No company in the world can commit to give you a specific position 3 years from now. But that doesn’t mean this discussion shouldn’t start even before leaving. This is particularly true with short missions. Keep in mind that you and the company will evolve greatly during this expatriation, that your goals may change in the time, and that managers you’ve been discussing with before leaving can be replaced. This is an on-going topic.