What are the 14 questions you should ask yourself if you want to work abroad?

Take time to reflect, or dive straight into a job abroad?

• Carefully consider your motivation for moving abroad. Your personal motivation will influence your job search, the choices you make, and the position you ultimately secure.
• It is beneficial, both for you and for those around you, to maintain an open mind and be receptive to the local population. Even if your goal is to make the world a better place, keep in mind that you cannot solve every problem in the short term.
• Furthermore, thorough preparation is essential when planning to work abroad.

What are your wishes and possibilities for working abroad?

• The questions below will help you outline your preferences, requirements, and options. This ensures that the work aligns with your personal goals and that your expectations are in line with what is actually possible. 
• Tip: Write down your answers. You can use them as a compass throughout your job search, and refine them as your plans take shape or once you have gained your first experience working abroad. By using these questions, you can create a personal "working abroad roadmap," ensuring that you have given proper thought to every important aspect.

1. What are your current skills, and what skills would you like to acquire while abroad?

• Consider the skills you have gained through your education, work experience, volunteer work, or personal interests. Also, think about what you would like to learn during your time working abroad. Are there specific skills that you would like to develop?

2. What kind of work suits you?

• Consider, for example, the distinction between practical, hands-on roles and those that are more analytical or policy-oriented.
• Think about whether you prefer a position focused on external client relations or one centered on internal organizational tasks.
• Reflect on your preferences regarding working independently, collaborating within a team, or taking on a leadership role.

3. What type of organization do you want to work for when you go abroad?

• Do you want to work at a commercial company, a non-profit organization or a government institution? Which sector(s) appeal to you the most? There are often significant differences in working atmosphere, priorities and policies.
• Feel free to ask friends, fellow students and family about their work experiences to get an idea of ​​the types of organizations and the differences between sectors.

4. Do you prefer to work for a local organization or an international company?

• Living and working in one place for a long time is quite different from traveling between various locations to conduct business.
• Consider whether you are someone who thrives when engaging with a wide variety of cultures, or if you would rather immerse yourself in and adapt to a single culture and environment.

5. What about your health and emotional needs when you are abroad?

• Some people love the warmth of the tropics, others prefer the Scandinavian winters. Does your intended location align with your preferred climate? What about your social life? Are you moving to your new destination with someone else, or are you heading out on your own?
• What do you need to feel happy, and can you find that in the location you're considering? Do you have enough engaging challenges, both professionally and personally, and the right people and opportunities around you?

6. What kind of environment suits you best?

• Are you looking for a workplace in a major metropolis like New York, New Delhi, or Mexico City? Or are you looking for a workplace in the middle of nature (such as an ecolodge)?
• Alternatively, you might prefer something in between, for instance, a provincial city. In many parts of the world, such cities offer plenty of amenities without being a megacity.
• What type of accommodation are you looking for, and do you have any specific requirements for transportation, like a local car or access to public transport?

7. Can you handle a culture shock, or do you prefer to stay within your comfort zone?

• Are you seeking an entirely different environment, perhaps living in a shantytown in Manila or among the bears in Alaska? Or would you rather find a place where you can rent an apartment with running water, electricity, and access to public transportation?

What kind of work environment are you looking for abroad, and how do you go about choosing one?

8. Where do you want to go for work abroad?

• Do you already have a specific country in mind, or at least know whether you would prefer to work in a Western or non-Western region?
• How far away do you want to go, somewhere relatively close to home, or perhaps on the other side of the globe?

9. Are you willing to learn a new language for working abroad?

• There are many countries around the world where English is the primary language. Non-native people often think their English is already quite good in terms of speaking, understanding, and writing; however, using English in a professional environment, especially when regional accents are involved, is often a step up. Keep in mind that in places like India and the Philippines, English is also widely spoken due to the presence of many local languages.
• If you move to a country where English is not the primary language, learning the local language is essential to truly thrive in a professional setting.
• When you are heading to a country where, for instance, Spanish or French is the main language, you should ask yourself whether you are prepared to learn it well enough to compete in the local job market, run your own business, or build a rich social life.

10. Do you want guidance and assistance in finding a job abroad, or would you prefer to manage it on your own?

• You can, of course, search through various job boards yourself and apply for openings that interest you, or reach out directly to local organizations where you would like to work.
• If you are looking for a job in a specific country or sector for a set period of time, it can be highly beneficial to get help from a recruitment or placement agency. These agencies often have extensive networks within a particular region or industry; they can support you throughout the application process and, in some cases, assist with other administrative matters.
• If you are looking for a position in the short term, using a recruitment agency can certainly be a worthwhile approach. If you have more time, can visit the location in person, or have useful local contacts, you may be able to conduct a more targeted and flexible search through your personal network.

11. What is your availability, and how long are you prepared to stay abroad?

• What is your timeline? Are you available in the short term, or not until a year from now? Do you plan to return in a year to continue your studies? Have you rented out your home for a fixed period?
• Do you intend to go for a few years, or is your goal to stay indefinitely?
• Do you have sufficient funds to cover the journey and the initial period of your stay?

12. What was the experience like for others who have worked abroad at the organization you are considering?

• Once you have clarified your own situation and identified an organization, it is advisable, when possible, to seek out more information about it.
• Knowing that you are in good hands can provide peace of mind, both for you and for the loved ones you are leaving behind.

What to consider before starting your work abroad?

13. Can you establish clear agreements before you begin working abroad?

• Once you know which company or organization you will be working for, it is important to reach clear agreements with your employer to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
• Consider, for example, how and when you will be paid, how many days and which specific days you will work, what your duties will be, and where you will be staying.
• Also, think about time off and longer leave periods (for instance, if you plan to host visitors or wish to take a trip yourself).
• Naturally, you also need to be flexible, and some things may still be adjusted once you arrive; however, having this in place gives you something to fall back on.

14. Can you get help applying for a work permit, if one is required?

• Discuss the necessary paperwork, such as your work permit or visa, with your employer or the agency assisting you. Local organizations are often better positioned to determine what might simplify or expedite the application process.