What do you do if you believe the common misconceptions about working abroad?

A hack I usually use is to leverage online communities and forums dedicated to expatriates or professionals working abroad. These platforms are treasure troves of firsthand experiences and insights, often debunking common myths about language requirements and other aspects of working overseas. Engage with individuals who have navigated similar situations or are currently employed in your target country. They can provide invaluable advice, recommendations, and even language learning resources tailored to your specific needs. By tapping into these networks, you'll be equipped with accurate information and practical strategies to overcome misconceptions and thrive in your international career journey.

Some myths that need to be addressed are that foreign staff often have relatively higher benefits and salary along with accommodations from the employer such as subsidized rentals, or work culture in multinationals is relatively consistent. The reality is that not all foreign staff will receive cost of living adjustments of their salaries or benefits because this largely is determined by the employer and the individual staff arrangements. Typically staff that get an overseas job via internal applications or from a transfer will get some of these benefits. Also bear in mind that some employers may provide some relocation assistance while others will expect the employee to take care of their own arrangements.

An insightful perspective to consider is that cultural adaptation is not an insurmountable challenge, but rather a journey of growth and learning. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local community, welcoming new experiences with an open mind. Respect for local customs and traditions goes a long way in fostering meaningful connections and acceptance within a new culture.

In addition, it's essential to recognize that working abroad can actually accelerate your professional growth rather than hinder it. While some may perceive international experience as a potential roadblock to career advancement, it's crucial to understand its immense value in today's interconnected world. Employers increasingly prioritize candidates with a global mindset, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills. Working abroad offers firsthand exposure to diverse work environments, challenges, and perspectives, all of which contribute significantly to your professional development.

This is generally true as long as your future employer is able to see that the global experience can help them. Otherwise, the international experience won't add much value if the employer or future manager "doesn't see it". Also some work cultures, such as Canada, value local and American work experience more than other international work experience.

When considering working abroad, financial worries often arise, but these can be mitigated by thoroughly assessing the compensation package and cost of living in the host country. From my experience, companies often provide substantial support for international employees, including housing and travel allowances. It’s important to look beyond the myths and understand the actual expenses and benefits involved. Making an informed decision helps in realizing that working abroad can be both financially feasible and a richly rewarding experience.

From my perspective, working abroad has two long-term impacts. 1) You stay because you enjoy the experience and continue to work internationally for the long term. As a result, you change positions or countries to improve your career experience or become more culturally astute. 2) You have worked internationally, and the return home to a new position has challenged you. Your professional values and understanding of a diverse workplace and its operations are no longer in sync with how you think. In either case, consider your career progression to decide your trajectory for working abroad.

It really depends on where you are returning to. If you are a working professional returning to Canada, there is a possibility that local employers may not value your work experience and time abroad with some employers even seeing those foreign credentials as "nebulous". That being said it is helpful to build or maintain contact with your professional network in your home country as they may be able to provide a strong referral for any jobs upon your return. If you are returning home via a transfer or back to your home office with the same employer, then there is no need to be concerned as they already know of your work abroad and what you have done to enrich the team and yourself.