Take an International Assignment

Why be interested, why do it? Accepting an international assignment (IA) can supercharge your career! Here are a few reasons why…

Career advancement means competition… you will have a significant edge
Know more about more — IA’s will round out your capabilities and value
Become familiar with other languages
Gain an appreciation and understanding of other cultures
Interact with the local citizens; make some international friends
Learn about another history
Become schooled in the complexity of international business
Give your “business acumen” a boost
Vastly expand your network
Become “worldly”

Intl flags If you have the slightest interest, make your desire known… the ol’ “squeaky wheel gets the grease”! Also, make sure you have a balanced view, be honest with yourself, do a serious self-assessment … it is outrageously expensive to send a professional out as an expatriate… so there needs to be an overriding benefit to the company. If you decide to pursue an overseas assignment it would be good if you are ready to explain your value-add as part of your request.

Behavioral Competencies are important to any successful international assignment (and domestic as well): Integrity, Ethics, Adaptability, Flexibility, Analytical, Team Player, Judgment, Work Ethic, Humor, Smarts, Continuous Learning, Humility, Care about others, Professional Presence, to name a few. Some others: Vision and Purpose, Intellectual Rigor, Leveraging Resources, Drive for Results, Managerial Courage, Strategic Thinking, Holding Self and Others Accountable, Developing and Motivating Others, Interpersonal Skills. You don’t need them all.

Intl view If you would like another culture to accept you, plan on going with your “hat in your hand” Notwithstanding your value add and contribution, always remember you are a visitor. You will be playing in some else’s sandbox. :>)

And, maybe even retire in a foreign country, I have friends that did. I have an overriding influence in my life, or I would have done so as well, long ago.

Shanghai 1 nitght The following blog post speaks to the value of promotions that also feature relocation… it may not be for everyone but never underestimate the value to your career!