7 Things to Prepare for Working Overseas with No Experience
7 Things to Prepare for Working Overseas with No Experience
Travel abroad jobs are becoming more popular by the day. Job seekers find that working abroad is a stepping stone to better salaries and wages. Another advantage of working abroad is that you get to experience different cultures and conditions in a new country or continent. However, working in a foreign country for the first time is quite challenging. The fact that you know nothing of the directions, people, culture, and sometimes language in the country makes it more challenging. Lack of experience is also a challenge. In this post, we provide you with a guide for working overseas for the first time without expertise.
1. Learn About the Culture of the Country
Culture refers to the customary beliefs, social norms and forms, and the physical traits of a religious, social, or racial group. It can also be defined as the characteristic features of a social group that influence their everyday experience. Different countries have different cultures. The culture is represented in their cuisines, clothes, language, and social behaviour. Before you get work in a new country, it is crucial to learn the culture of the country as the knowledge will help you get along with the people, prepare for the experience and fit in well.
2. Research the Available Jobs
This is the first thing you have to do when preparing to work abroad. Find out the available job opportunities and which one suits you according to your qualifications. For instance, there are several jobs for teaching English oversees. These jobs are especially popular in Thailand. However, the government of Thailand does not allow formal schools to sponsor foreigners who do not hold a degree. Carrying out research will help you collect such information, hence prepare for such opportunities.
3. Get the Necessary Qualifications
Different countries require different qualifications and certifications for particular jobs. For instance, to start teaching English overseas, you need a degree. However, in Thailand, there are ways of teaching English without a degree. In the country, you can become a non-degree holding English teacher if you acquire a TEFL or CELTA certificate.
4. Get a Work Permit
A work permit also referred to as a work visa in some countries, is a document that indicates permission to take a job within a foreign country. It is impossible to start working oversees without a work permit.
5. Consider Housing and Insurance
One important consideration when working in a foreign country is housing and insurance (specifically health insurance). When looking for a job opportunity, make sure to research the housing conditions, whether the job provides housing and insurance or not, and the cost as well.
6. Consider the Salary
The main reason why people opt for overseas jobs is the salary advantage that jobs have over local jobs. Before taking up a job, make sure you know the salary you are up for and whether or not it is worth the move.
7. Ask Other People About their Experience
If you have friends who have worked abroad before, especially those in the country you choose to work, it will benefit you to get some tips from them. Ask about their experiences, what to expect, challenges, and the advantages.
Different countries and different jobs offer varying contracts. The terms of the agreement include the period within which you will be working in the country. It is imperative to analyse the contract before accepting the terms.
Featured photo by Andrew Neel on Unsplash
