Categories: Lifestyle

Graduation May Mean Travel – Preparing Yourself For The World

Research released earlier in December indicates that more graduates than ever are working outside of their country of origin. According to the study by the News India Times, 30% of American physicians are foreign-born, with 7% being not citizens at all. As just one of many professions that draw heavily from international talent, there are countless other graduates working abroad.

The unstoppable rise of digital technology to become a completely pervasive aspect of modern life is providing more impetus for graduates to work abroad. It’s easier than ever to get along as the world becomes more globalized, and that’s a good thing for graduates. Regardless, there are important steps to take if you do take the plunge and work abroad.

IMAGE: PEXELS

Making The Most Of Your Financial Situation

One of the great benefits of taking employment abroad is money. Many countries outside of the west offer competitive salaries without the level of taxation and the cost of living associated with the most developed countries in the world. It makes sense that your first few months living abroad are a great time to save, especially if the company provides accommodation. This will allow you to make payments on student loans, create a fund for your personal life, and develop an improved credit profile that will enable you to re-consolidate loans, or find more competitive rates for mortgages and the like. Just be aware that you will likely need to file two tax returns, according to Forbes, to meet the requirements of your home country and the one of your employment.

Developing Transferable Skills

An excellent qualification will get your foot in the door with employment abroad, but soft skills are sometimes not as well transferred. This can be a sticking point when negotiating in other countries; consultants Commis Global identified this issue and have, for many years, produced country-specific etiquette guides. Put your soft skills – such as team working, communication and problem-solving – into easily identifiable formats that will communicate your traits to any prospective employer or manager in your new, foreign place of work.

Integrate Yourself With The Local Culture

Many expatriate workers will find those from their country of origin and then stick to that, not getting involved with local culture. It’s important to find people who speak your own language to avoid homesickness. Homesickness cannot be disregarded; an influential 1985 study outlined how 60% of students feel homesick, and that this principle can be extended to ex-pat workers. However, this doesn’t mean you should become introverted. Branching out and actively looking to the local culture will allow you to network, finding new opportunities; to learn the local language, improving your flexibility; and give you a better sense of where you are, opening doors to new experiences.

More and more, graduates are ending up working abroad. To get the best salaries and experiences, minds are moving abroad, and it could be you next. To flourish, immerse yourself in the culture, take advantage of the preferable economic situation, and express your best aspects in all walks of life.

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