It feels like we are surrounded by influencers that are traveling all over the world and monetizing these incredible experiences. While things may not necessarily be as they appear, there are opportunities abroad for a broad range of professions if that is something on your bucket list. As someone who has traveled to around 30 countries, I can’t put into words how much travel and exposure to other cultures has enriched my life. It opened my eyes to different perspectives and made me a better human being with more compassion and a greater appreciation for humanity. I respect our differences; the way other people live their lives and how not one way is right for everyone. 

Expat Opportunities Working Abroad

I do have several friends and colleagues who have been working abroad. As a former human resources executive, I have helped many professionals acclimate to different cultures. I managed their transition to the United States from other countries. Although there are possibly less opportunities abroad than there were, more stringent regulatory guidelines and so forth, there are definitely still exciting opportunities that you can find. It is all about timing, fit, patience, flexibility and persistence in seeking opportunities abroad. 

Adapting to Other Cultures, My Advice 

I can’t tell you how many episodes of House Hunters International I watched where someone moving abroad said they wanted a home similar to what they had in their home country, something bigger, designs more in line with what they are familiar with etc. I have also seen folks say they want to be immersed in the culture and have the charm and features that are unique to where their new home countries. It is a mixed bag. What I will say is “When in Rome, do as the Romans Do”. Do your best to adapt and develop a great appreciation for this wonderful new country, city or town you are living in now. It can be the most amazing experience if you let it. 

Broadening your Perspective

Try new foods, dress like locals, appreciate their cultural norms and meet new people. Embrace those differences, when will you have an opportunity like this again? Experience abroad can broaden your perspective. It offers new insights into different ways of doing things and offers key learnings you can bring back home. You can adopt new problem solving skills, further value differences and foster creativity. Questioning the status quo is healthy, it is our right and some would say our duty. If you are introduced to a new culture with a new way of doing something, why not bring those learnings back? Why not share this new perspective? We are a global world, global economy and all human beings with more in common than we think. 

Working abroad can be a life changing experience. Remember to take full advantage and embrace the opportunity. Your role is not to impose your own cultural norms, it is to learn from and respect this new culture you have immersed yourself in. If you try to impose your own views, you will have difficulty adapting and growing in this new environment. Embrace this  adventure, learning from the experience and bring your learnings back home. It will make you invaluable. So brush up your resume and starting searching…