Sometimes in life, a big change is needed. You might very well like the line of work you're in, but maybe there’s a yearning for something different there, still. Perhaps you’ve been considering looking abroad for work. In a more globalised world with a more internationally connected market, that’s more possible than ever before. But to keep your journey sunny, you want to smooth the process as much as possible. So, what does it take to keep the flight smooth and the work steady?
Consider which skills are always in demand
Sometimes, the skills and roles you’ve been working in might not exactly be a fit for the existing market overseas. A lateral move or a slight career change could help you better align to work overseas. For instance, if you’re qualified as a teacher, then you could learn how to teach English as a foreign language, opening you up to many opportunities in places like East Asia. If you’ve worked in management or customer facing positions, you could apply your knowledge in marketing and learn the methods of the trade which can help you land a good career just about anywhere in the marketing mad world.
It could be closer than you think
You don’t have to go as far as Japan or China to enjoy a career overseas, either. You can drastically decrease the amount of work that it takes to get a career in a better climate if you look at locations that are more connected to the country where you’re a citizen. For instance, if you live in the United Kingdom, then looking for jobs in Guernsey, the other Channel Islands, or other British dependencies could be much easier. Countries like Australia might also be a lot more willing to accept you if your skills fit their pre-defined list of careers that they’re seeking immigrants for. You’re not always guaranteed a fast-track but you should look for it where it’s available.
Be prepared for big change
Even if you are fast-tracked, you had at least better prepare for the work that it’s going to entail. Not only will it take a lot of paperwork to be authorised to work abroad. Making the move and the lifestyle changes can be a struggle in its own right, too. You need to take care of things like expat insurance coverage independently and it’s a smart move to save up plenty of reserve money beyond your budget. It can even be trying emotionally. Culture shock is a very real thing, so it’s a good idea to at least visit where you plan on working before you make the move and find out it’s not for you.
It might take a bit more effort than the average career, but there are a lot of people travelling to work. When you’ve found where you want to work or even the employer you want to work for, look for the support groups that can help you get settled there. Every location is different and specific advice is much better than generalising.
