Question – The best ways to prepare for working abroad

Moving to a foreign land for your career can be daunting, but there are things you can do before making the decision and ways you can get ready for the big trip. 

Question: I am looking to work at a social enterprise abroad, how do I even begin the process of due diligence and getting advice from people who are currently working there? Alaia 21, UK

Sounds like a great adventure Alaia! You’re right to highlight the importance of carrying out due diligence before making the move though.

My take

As with many things when it comes to careers, it’s worthwhile starting with yourself. What’s important to you about this move, what absolutely MUST be right and what are you prepared to take a risk on?

What to consider?

Areas to consider could include the following. Consider writing these days or copying them into a Word document for future reference. Always good to have them handy!

• The organisation’s financial stability.
• The background and credibility of the leadership.
• The prospects for growth.
• The extent of any positive social impact they claim to achieve.
• Other CSR factors.
• The organisation culture.
• The contract – both formal and unspoken – with employees.
• The opportunities for your own learning and development.
• Opportunities for growing your network.
• The team you will be joining, and the nature of the work you’ll be doing.

Come up with a long list and group them into similar categories. You’ll probably end up with 5-6 areas for further investigation.

Think through consequences. If the enterprise collapses after 6 months, will you still have learned something and make some good connections? If they have a great positive social impact, but they work their employees to the bone, could you stand that? How long for?