Before accepting a job that requires overseas work, a candidate should make sure they know where they expect the position to lead them. Writing in the Wall Street Journal, Catherine Tanelli suggests that employees ask themselves several questions before agreeing to an overseas position, to ensure the career move is as rewarding as possible. First, she advises employees to consider what they hope to get out of the job, how long they are prepared to remain in it and what skills they are looking to develop. Keeping the future in mind will help people make sure their work experience will be relevant to the job market in their home country. Next, Ms Tanelli recommends they examine the career paths of others who have held a similar role, to discover where the opportunity has led them. She says people should aim for an equal or better outcome from their own experience. Another risk that people take when they decide to work abroad for a period of time is that future employers could view their decision as a sign of uncertainty or overly erratic behavior. Because of this, it is vital that a job-seeker returning to their home country emphasizes the skills they have gained from working overseas, which may include enhanced confidence, independence and cultural awareness.  |