7 Things to Consider When Seeking International Career Opportunities
Having recently qualified in the accountancy profession, I was starting to take my first steps towards the professional world. The trouble was, I felt somewhat lost as to what would be coming up next. I could either continue working with the same firm where I completed my training period, make a move locally, or I could look for an opportunity abroad.
Being a recent graduate, I wanted to keep my doors open to all options. Although moving abroad was one of those options, it wasn’t one I was initially inclined towards this early in my career. But then I started to question whether I would get the opportunity to pursue an international career in my later years and perhaps now might actually be the best time to take advantage of being a bit freer. So, I started to give it some serious thought.
Below are a few of the key considerations I’ve come across and spent time reflecting on that seem relevant in evaluating my move for international career opportunities.
Although everyone’s personal circumstances may differ, I thought the following points might be of value to help anyone else weighing up this kind of big decision:
1. Wrap Up When You’re Certain
Don’t rush with resigning from your current employer unless you have a solid job offer somewhere new. There are processing formalities (including your visa, travel tickets, and accommodation) that may require some time. You need to account for that period when deciding your resignation date. You don’t want to be left hanging in between if there is an unforeseen delay in processing your application.
Depending on your working relationship with your current boss, you might be able to have an honest conversation with them about your next steps and agree on some flexibility.
2. Expect More Than A Geographical Switch
When you make a major geographical move, you need to adapt yourself not just professionally but in certain personal aspects as well.
It’s likely you’ll experience changes in lifestyle, culture, language, weather conditions, and even your daily interactions. Appreciate everything from different greeting etiquette to surprising your taste buds. This can feel really exciting but it’s important t be aware of these changes and give yourself time to adjust.
We are naturally programmed to adjust to new environments over time, so give yourself that time.
3. Establish Connections Before Making A Move
You don’t have to wait until you’ve relocated to start building your network, you can start making connections digitally in the lead up to moving.
Do your research through Linkedin, or by joining other professional networks and groups in your new city. Join Facebook groups and reach out, letting people know you’ll be moving for work soon and would love to meet other professionals in your industry. Meeting and getting guidance from local people is great as they can provide insights you won’t find online.
4. Standard Contract Terms Are Not Really Standard
Different places do things differently, so it’s important to make sure you’re clear on everything you need to be when it comes to your employment contract and terms.
You have to be meticulous in reading the contract terms of your new employer and make sure you ask the HR department if there is any ambiguity. It’s better to clarify any unknowns or uncertainties at the start than be caught out later down the line. As a new professional graduate, this might feel awkward, but you can use the ‘newbie’ card to get clarity.
5. Hierarchical Levels May Differ
Just as different places might do contract terms differently, the same applies to management and job role levels. It may be possible that the position offered to you is lower than what you are offered locally or vice versa.
It’s important to research about the hierarchical levels at any new company (local or international) and understand where you fit in the structure. Maybe the job description of a supervisor abroad is equivalent to a managerial role locally. At the interview is a great time to seek clarity over where your role might sit in the wider company structure, and make sure you ask questions when you start so you know how things like line-management and reporting work.
6. Know Your Performance Appraisal Period & Expectations
In any new role, you’ll usually be expected to complete and pass a probationary or appraisal period. This is where your manager will be reviewing your progress and delivery in your role to make sure you’re a good fit. It also includes observing and getting feedback on how you interact with your team and fit in with wider company values and goals.
The appraisal period could be anywhere between 4 weeks and 6 months so make sure you know how long your period is for, what it is that’s expected from you, and ask questions if you feel you need help in any specific areas. During this time your manager will be keen to support you to succeed so don’t just sit around waiting for feedback, ask for it and get clarification if there are any areas you need to work on to be a success in the role.
7. Work Permits & Visa Information
Work permit requirements differ on a country by country basis. You need to do your own research concerning the visa or work permits that the employer is offering you and make sure you (and your employer) meet all the requirements.
I have seen instances where people have moved to another country with a Tourist or Visitor Visa, hoping they would be able to transfer to a valid work permit or visa once they secured or started a job. However, due to certain restrictions, they were unable to transfer their visa and had to move back to their home country on the expiry of their tourist visit. You need to be sure that a valid work permit is being offered as part of your employment contract.
Lastly, Lean In To The experience
Moving to work somewhere entirely new might feel daunting and that fear can hold us back but it’s worth remembering you’re not alone.
You will not be the first person to be hired from a different geographical background. By recruiting internationally, the employer has demonstrated that they appreciate a multi-cultural work environment, which is a fantastic opportunity for you to learn and grow from others in your new workplace.
Respect cultural differences, establish good working relationships and be open to new challenges as they arise. Do all this and you’ll probably find working internationally to be one of the most rewarding experiences you invest in, in life.
