What do you do if you want to build a successful international career?

The emphasis on in-depth research before embarking on international work highlights a multi-faceted approach to career mobility that transcends mere logistics. By understanding the economic climate and thriving industries of potential destinations, individuals can strategically align their career paths with markets that offer the most opportunity and stability. Additionally, comprehending visa requirements and legal frameworks ensures that one's transition across borders is seamless, mitigating risks of legal complications that could otherwise hinder professional progress.

Regardless of one's career stage, you will still need to do your own research as official guides, YouTube travel videos, local market reports, and books may be outdated or only provide one side of the story. Consider looking into unofficial sources for information about the local nuances and the recent facts on the ground from expat forums, country subreddits, catching up on current events, or asking your networks or friends that are currently based in your target destination. What you don't know can hurt you.

The cliché about who you know being as important as what you know is often true. Proximity to top management, the opportunity to learn from the best experts, and more generally the ability to network with those who can be qualified as the “top influencers” within your industry is a differentiator. Your location (at HQ, in a major regional hub or on the contrary in a small remote operation) influences your ability to build an efficient network. It is about building connections in your target destination but, more importantly, also about maintaining a link with the key hubs/markets/experts internationally for your specific industry and field.

Before you go make sure you have a role to play when you repatriate. I have seen individuals stuck in their expat role. Also make sure that you negotiate housing, tax equalization, tax assistance, per Diem or allowances, transportation, periodic return flights home, cost of living adjustments, how and where you will receive your salary, MBOs and associated bonuses, where do your report is it local or back at your HQ. If you have a family provisions for them, moving costs, schools if you have children, vaccinations, work visas, repatriation rules, dual language business cards if needed, try to learn the local language, understand local work and social customs. Repatriation contract if company streamlines and your part of it.

O LinkedIn é vital para quem mira o mercado internacional, até para a obtenção de vistos. Um perfil detalhado pode ser decisivo, já que oficiais de imigração às vezes o consultam para avaliar a experiência profissional. Destaque habilidades e experiências internacionais, mantendo tudo atualizado. Esse cuidado não só atrai empregadores globais, como também apoia seu processo de visto, provando sua qualificação e fit cultural para equipes multiculturais.

Reputation is made, not bought. First, pick your social name for two reasons: create a brand around it and protect your privacy. Your social name should be easy to pronounce and memorize in multiple idioms. Like companies choose their logos carefully to represent a mark, you should do the same if you want to build an international career. The second step is to create original content on a subject matter. Of course, the topic must be recognized as necessary in most countries. Acquire knowledge, develop skills, and apply competencies as in any profession. Expose your expertise through social media, books, and conference sessions. Recognize others to be recognized. It takes a long time, but it is worth it.