Tips For Expatriate Job Hunting
Before you decide to go to another country to live, you will want to make sure that there is a way there for you to support yourself. One way to look for employment in another country is to give your resume to a recruitment agency that deals with that country. Another method would be to put an ad in one their newspapers.
Since you will need housing and food when you reach your destination, it would probably be best if you make arrangements before you travel. Do not assume that just because you have a visitor’s visa that you will be able to get a job while you are in another country. There are different rules around the world for expatriates seeking jobs.
Obviously, you will have to be aware of what requirements and procedures are involved in the country of your choice regarding visa applications. What laws does this country have regarding passports?
What legal documents will you need to have in that country? For instance, will you be required to have a local identification card, local driver’s license, or proof of local residence address there?
Before you can obtain a job in another country, you need to know what medical requirements they have. What vaccinations are required before you can work there? Are you required to have a medical check up before you enter that country or before you are allowed employment there? What type of health care does that country offer?
You will want to do some research about the country before you travel there. It is a good idea to know something about that country’s political history and background and how that will affect your ability to get a job there. How does their political structure influence their business environment? Are they suspicious of hiring people from your home country?
Will there be a language barrier? That would definitely affect your ability to obtain employment there. Are you planning to learn the language of this country before going there to work? Before you begin such a venture, you will probably want to have a position already in place for you. Some employers will require you to live and communicate in an area for a period of time prior to hiring, where the language needed is spoken natively.
What about their banking procedures? If you are going to work there, will they allow you to open a bank account? This is important, since you will require some way to cash your pay checks.
If your family remains in your home country, will the country where you plan to work allow you to send money back home? How will income taxes be taken care of in that country? You will need information about how your home country and your prospective country deal with international social security agreements.
Before you consider working in another country, there are some specific things you will need to learn about their business etiquette. What greetings are appropriate? What clothing is considered adequate for certain jobs?
How will you deal with prospective employer when you are asked your opinion of their country’s basic philosophy or religious practices? Are there certain things that you might say in an interview that would be offensive to a prospective employer? Would the employee consider you arrogant if you list all your business accomplishments? Become familiar with their norms and customs, particularly in the area of communication.
The best way to get hired for a position in another country is to be sent through a company in your home country. Through that process, most of the questions listed here would be answered. Other than just getting used to being in another culture, your main challenges would already be overcome and your job in the new country would be more enjoyable.
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