According to research by various international mobility management consulting firms, 75% of "trailing spouses" are women. While some secure employment overseas, 35 to 50% either do not resume working or begin professional reconversion. Moving abroad frequently serves as a period for professional contemplation. What motivates these women to pursue a new career path, and how do they navigate this transition?
Why international mobility is an ideal time for women to reconsider their careers
Moving abroad, willingly embraced or not, presents a unique set of experiences for "trailing spouses," who are predominantly women. While some manage to maintain continuous employment, others view this period as an opportunity to alter their career paths.
Following the initial phase of moving and settling in, expatriation allows a pause, a rare moment for deep reflection on one's career trajectory. Many caught in the relentless pace of their careers seldom take this step back. However, the desire for career reconversion is strong, as evidenced by numerous surveys.
The transition also introduces a stimulating new environment: learning a language, adapting to a different culture, expanding social networks, and encountering diverse professional contexts all encourage reconsideration of career possibilities. The importance of networking, whether for job searching or career reorientation, cannot be overstressed. Moving abroad often leads to interactions with varied profiles that might not have been encountered back home, providing fewer social barriers due to the shared experience of living abroad.
Financially, international mobility projects can offer benefits like housing stipends, cost of living adjustments, and health insurance, which alleviate some of the economic pressures found at home. This financial relief makes it a suitable time for women to invest in themselves, whether that means pursuing training or dedicating months to a job search.
Moreover, the spouses' employers often support the "trailing spouse" with resources such as job search assistance, coaching, or specialized training. This support can make it easier to pursue a professional reconversion, a task that might have been daunting due to time, financial constraints, or mental bandwidth in one's home country. This combined support framework makes expatriation a prime time for a career transition.
Navigating challenges in career reconversion in your host country
Embarking on a career change while living abroad presents several hurdles, beginning with adapting to a new environment. Several factors can complicate this transition.
Work permit requirements
In many countries, obtaining a work permit for the trailing spouse involves a separate application from that of the primary employed expatriate. Often, these requirements are intentionally restrictive to protect local jobs. For instance, in China, specific visas demand at least two years of professional experience in the desired sector. This requirement poses a significant challenge for those amid career reconversion, lacking experience in their new field. Additionally, securing a local job offer, which is frequently necessary, can be daunting when transitioning to a sector unrelated to one's prior expertise. The application process can be lengthy and intricate.
Language proficiency
Mastering a new language is crucial, especially when professional reconversion necessitates communication skills in the local tongue. For example, if a lawyer wants to switch to teaching, unless employed at an international school, teaching in the local language is generally required—a formidable barrier if language proficiency is still in progress. Training for new qualifications may also be hindered if it's unavailable in one's native language remotely, compelling many to interact primarily within expatriate circles.
Recognition of foreign degrees
Another significant challenge is the recognition of foreign qualifications. Some nations accept a certified true copy of foreign diplomas, while others demand formal recognition from a state-accredited agency. The ENIC NARIC network, available in nearly 55 countries, can assist with this process, but obtaining certification can take weeks or even months. Planning well in advance for any training associated with career reconversion is essential, as is understanding the comprehensive administrative demands.
These constraints require careful navigation and preparation, underscoring the complexities of pursuing professional development while adapting to life abroad.
The roadmap for a successful career change for expat women
Navigating the complexities of professional reconversion while living abroad can be daunting. Once the initial challenges are addressed, the following steps can help facilitate a successful career change.
Skills assessment
This is a critical first step in professional reconversion, especially if you lack a clearly defined career project. Numerous tools can help evaluate your strengths, including personality tests like the DISC method, questionnaires, and other self-assessment tools. Gallup's Clifton Strengths method is another standardized option. In some countries, skills assessment is a comprehensive process that includes ongoing support over several weeks or months, guided by professionals specialized in career transitions.
Dedicated coaching
Many private coaches specialize in career reconversion, and some focus exclusively on assisting expatriate women seeking new career paths. However, it's important to note that not all coaches are qualified to conduct formal skills assessments, even if they offer them. Clearly define your needs and objectives, and ensure transparency regarding the methods and tools the coach will employ.
Expat networks
Leveraging expat networks can provide invaluable support during your career transition. These networks often consist of individuals facing similar challenges and can offer advice, support, and practical assistance through associations or informal social media groups. Some associations also promote workshops, mentoring, and other reconversion support services. Make sure to check with your local consulate for an updated list of professional associations that might be helpful.
Entrepreneurship
Consider the possibility of starting your own business as part of your transition. Many expatriates use their time abroad to launch independent ventures, which can offer more flexibility and allow you to tailor your business to your new professional goals without relying on an employer to take a chance on your budding skills in a new sector. Starting a business is an educational journey in itself. However, the feasibility and success of such an endeavor will depend on the local regulations and support for entrepreneurship in your host country. Some countries are supportive of such initiatives, while others may have stringent administrative requirements.
By following these steps and preparing adequately, you can navigate your professional reconversion abroad more effectively and confidently achieve your new career objectives.
