A LinkedIn user asked me how international nurses can avoid exploitation abroad. Here’s my expert advice

In a recent LinkedIn conversation, another user asked me to share an article with strategies to avoid exploitation. I was deeply touched by their inquiry because I have witnessed how common and preventable these situations can be. This is why I decided to address this important topic in the final edition of our mini-course for Succeeding Abroad as a Nurse

Dear Friend,

As an International Nurse Career Coach, my job is all about helping nurses succeed abroad! Success, of course, is the complete opposite of exploitation! Let me explain.

Exploitation happens when nurses aren’t equipped with the right tools, knowledge, and strategies to safeguard their rights. If you’ve been following this series, you’re already on the right path knowing what it takes to be successful abroad, and so, to avoid exploitation.?

You know?! To be successful abroad you need to take in consideration 3 important factors' blocks:

1. Your needs (personal, professional, financial)
2. Your current circumstances (family, property, debts)
3. Your goals and ambitions (for your life and your profession)

The next step is to choose the right place to pursue your goals and ambitions, a place where you can satisfy your needs and manage your current situation.

To do this and to succeed once abroad, I give you 5 steps process to succeed abroad?

1. Research
2. Plan
3. Move
4. Settle
5. Escalate

These 5 steps are part of my Nurses Move System about which I have already talked about in this newsletter edition: My 5 Steps to Work-Life Balance Abroad: Unlock Your Best Life as an International Educated Nurse

Nevertheless, finding the right place isn't enough. We live in a constantly changing world, and our workplace is no exception. What works for you the first year abroad won't work for you a few years later. To be able to surf the changes and challenges, you need a mindset and the right tips.

During the mini-course on how to succeed in your international nursing career, which just ended, I gave you all the information and strategies you need! Let's wrap up this mini course with five actionable points that will keep you empowered and protected with this extra final edition.

Five Steps to Avoid Exploitation as an International Nurse

1. Research Your Destination Thoroughly

• Study the healthcare system, nursing roles, and average wages in your destination country taking in consideration the remittance that you have to send home.
• You should understand local labor laws, including your rights as a foreign worker, as well as common contract terms, taking into account the penalty for withdrawing from the contract.
• Be sure to understand how the career ladder works before taking any leap of faith in furthering your career or education: you may end up in a position that does not satisfy your ambitions, needs and aspirations. Always, ALWAYS EDUCATE YOURSELF!

2. Scrutinize Contracts Before Signing

• Make sure your contract clearly outlines your job role, hours, salary, benefits, and any other expectations.
• Avoid vague language or undocumented promises. Over the years, I've learned that things either happen or they don't, and that nothing happens until it does! It's not a matter of trust, it's how reality works! It doesn’t matter if people are intended to assist you, the system will work to provide services in the most efficient way possible and on a large scale, which means that there may not be much space for you, unless you create it.
• If possible, consult a legal advisor familiar with healthcare and international employment laws, and don't be afraid to speak up for yourself!

3. Build a Supportive Network

• Find professional associations, unions, or expat communities in your new country.
• Reach out to other international nurses for advice and mentorship especially those who can prove a successful career!
• Hire a career coach who can assist you in improving your title, salary, and work-life balance.

4. Set Boundaries and Stand Firm

• Know your worth and don’t be afraid to assert yourself if your workload or treatment feels unfair. My friend, this is my obsession! It is crucial that nurses recognize their value and worth, understanding that they are not just workers, but professionals as well!
• Avoid saying yes to extra responsibilities without clear compensation or support!
• Feel confident about seeking mediation or reporting exploitation if necessary. You are not obligated to remain in the same place if you don’t like it! While change can be difficult and require energy, it can also be the best decision that will save you time, energy, and money and, in the long run, save you from burnout!

5. Stay Educated and Adaptive

• Stay up-to-date on the healthcare landscape and nursing standards in your destination.?
• Be adaptable to new cultures and systems but avoid compromising on your core values or safety.
• Make yourself more indispensable and harder to exploit by upskilling or specializing.
• Learning soft skills will help you to win your colleagues and adapt quickly to team dynamics as you become Self-Aware, Emotionally Intelligent, and Culturally Intelligent.

In the beginning of my international nursing career, I didn't always know how to advocate for myself. There have been times where I felt undervalued and contract terms were vague. In order to create the fulfilling career I have today, I had to educate myself, build strong relationships, and learn how to set boundaries.?

You can do it too, especially if you read my content!

I have already done the hard work, so you do not need to do it too!

In fact I have an Exciting News to share:?

The Awakened Nurse is Now Available!

I’m thrilled to announce that my book, The Awakened Nurse, is officially published and available on Amazon! This book dives deeper into the strategies we’ve discussed and gives you the tools to awaken your full potential as an international nurse.

?? Order your copy of The Awakened Nurse on Amazon today!

THE AWAKENED NURSE: A Transformative Career Journey of Self-Discovery Towards International Nursing Success

Is a step-by-step guide to finding the right job opportunities abroad, avoiding scams, and preventing exploitation.

Strategies for planning and executing a successful move, managing emotional and cultural adjustments, and seamlessly integrating into new healthcare systems.

Practical tips for gaining confidence, enhancing nursing skills, and building professional relationships to become a recognized and respected nurse internationally.

"The Awakened Nurse" is the ultimate companion for any nurse who dreams of an international career. It is specially designed for those who:

• Seek greater success and recognition in their nursing careers abroad.
• Wish to navigate the complexities of international relocation with confidence and ease.
• Are committed to building a fulfilling life and career abroad, free from exploitation and common pitfalls.

Being a successful international nurse myself, I know firsthand the challenges that come with working abroad.

This book is the result of ten years of research about international nursing and nurses’ migration, of career coaching and leadership studies and experience in helping nurses succeed abroad and I am very pleased to share it with you!

Regarding this newsletter edition, I am very glad that Mado Duncan asked me for this article today. He gave me a better idea on how to close this mini course about succeeding abroad as a nurse!

Thank you for joining me on this 12-week journey. If this is your first time you read my newsletter, I encourage you to subscribe! I have already an entire library of contents ready to be used!

Your courage and commitment inspire me every day, I write for you!

Let’s continue to connect, grow, and support each other as we navigate the incredible journey of nursing abroad.

I am here at your service!

My warmest regards, Dina Paoloni, BSN, RN, PG, CC, Career Coach for International Nurses, Clinical Trial Nurse, NHS Clinical Entrepreneur, HLA Nurse Leader, NIC Regional Director Europe

PS. ?? Order your copy of The Awakened Nurse on Amazon today!