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Considering a career abroad?

9th January 2017

The decision to take a job abroad is a big one, so before you bite the bullet and begin the international recruitment process, carefully consider all the facts. Read our checklist to make certain you’re fully prepared for a new venture overseas.

Culture

Accepting Differences

Adjusting to a new culture could be a challenge. If you don’t agree with local attitudes to women and or children, racial, political or religious beliefs then perhaps you’re considering the wrong place. A new system of values will almost certainly affect your life, so do your research and make sure your location suits all your living requirements before you take the plunge.

Language

Learn the language. If you can’t speak the native language and the locals can’t speak yours then finding work will be tough!

Health

Healthcare entitlement

Some countries may have government funded health initiatives; however, most will require you to take out your own private cover. If you do need insurance be prepared for all eventualities; get it factored into moving costs and in place before you set off.

Children and family life

Partner/spouse

If you’re moving with your other half, what career implications will the move have for him or her? Dual career relocation is double the challenge.

*The most common reason listed for overseas assignment failure is a lack of partner satisfaction.

Know what you leave behind

When you emigrate overseas, I doubt you’ll be taking everyone you know along with you. How do you feel about that? How often do you plan on visiting home? Will visiting be financially viable? Leaving loved ones behind is tough, consider this realistically, especially if you have ageing or poorly relatives or rely heavily on your family support network.

Education systems

Schooling systems vary dramatically from country to country, so if you decide to move to France in the middle of your child’s A-Levels he or she will most likely find the French bachelorette system difficult to adjust to! However, international schools are available so do your research to limit any disruption.

Finance

Is the salary or rate in the chosen country acceptable for you?

Taking a job abroad could mean taking a pay cut and although the cost of living may be less, this could make visiting home a very expensive trip. Alternatively, your salary could be rising, if this is the case don’t be caught out;  investigate the true cost of living in your chosen location.

Work permits

Do you need one and can you meet the necessary requirements? Check out the local embassy regulations before you get your hopes up. Once you have obtained your visa make sure you know your rights of employment and are fully aware of the regulations under which you have been allowed to reside.