You’re working abroad for the first time. What are the most important things to consider?

Mastering the logistics of working abroad is vital, encompassing contracts, payments, and healthcare. Equally crucial is understanding the cultural landscape of your destination. Moving to a new country can be jarring, particularly when navigating unfamiliar norms while working abroad. Remember, there are different expectations, values, ways of working, communication styles, etc. To proactively address potential culture clashes, conduct extensive cultural research. Consult with local colleagues to grasp professional expectations within their cultural context. Their perspectives offer invaluable guidance for seamlessly adapting and excelling in your new professional environment.

As an American expat working in Germany, I would suggest doing so much research on expected costs, and then DOUBLE that! That's how much money you need in order to prepare to work abroad. There will unexpected income holds (taxes, insurance), high deposits, and of course potential emergencies. If you can somehow absorb this into your budget, and set your expectations ahead of time, it'll give you great peace of mind. You also need to have a 'get out quick' emergency fund in the case that you need to return home for any reason.

I moved from the West coast of the US to Germany in 2022 for work, and even though I had a work contract, I struggled with visa issues for over a year. The best thing you can do is ask your company to provide an immigration attorney or at least help with the costs associated with this. If you're a freelancer, hire an expert!

Culture shock is real, even if you've built a community in your new life abroad, and this is true even for extroverts. Connect with locals on common ground topics such as sports, book clubs, women's' groups, and parenting groups. Check in regularly (daily to weekly) with your local friends as well as your friends and family back home. Bring your traditions from home with you. Put down the old photos and take some news ones! This is why you decided to go abroad anyway isn't it? Make new memories, go on new adventures, eat great food!

When moving abroad for the first time, Instead of over-stressing, see every situation as a learning opportunity and focus on what you can control, what’s in your power

If you are going to a foreign work assignment where English is not the official language or a popular language, make an effort to learn the local language before arriving to your destination. Focus on learning basics such as basic courtesy, asking directions, learning how to order food, along with getting to know your foreign colleagues if you are transferring from another office to ease the transition. If you are moving first before looking for work, make sure to join local networking or language-exchange meetups to get a head start on learning about the location, language, and other cultural nuances. This will not only help ease any potential culture shock but help build some contacts before you arrive at the new location.