Moving abroad is frequently seen as a career boost, but it's important to recognize that skills and qualifications might not always transfer seamlessly across borders. Challenges such as language barriers, changes in status and salary, and unrecognized degrees can lead to a diminished professional identity. How can you safeguard your career value when relocating internationally?
Differences in status
In some regions, what you perceive as a prestigious profession might not hold the same esteem elsewhere, and salary often correlates with societal status.
Take teaching, for example. In Asia, particularly in China, the title "laoshi" (teacher) is revered, extending beyond classroom educators to anyone with expertise in a specific area. This respect is rooted in a long-standing tradition of valuing knowledge bearers.
However, this level of respect is not universal. In countries like France and Italy, the teaching profession faces challenges such as shortages and recruitment difficulties, reflecting a decline in its perceived value.
Similarly, in Germany, technical and craft professions enjoy high status, supported by robust training routes and a dual education system that combines apprenticeships with theoretical instruction. Yet, this recognition and valuation of skilled trades are not as prevalent in many other countries.
Equivalence of diplomas and the right to practice abroad
The ability to practice a profession as before when moving abroad is not always guaranteed. The recognition of experience, skills, and qualifications can vary significantly from one country to another, particularly in regulated fields such as aviation, security, construction, social work, and healthcare.
Consider healthcare professionals as a prime example. In France and many other countries, the practice of medicine and paramedical professions is regulated by stringent codes, such as the Public Health Code, which dictates the criteria for recognizing medical qualifications. Foreign practitioners must navigate these regulations to secure the right to practice.
Additionally, certain specialties or alternative medicines are not uniformly accredited across borders. For instance, while traditional Chinese medicine is widely recognized and reimbursed in Switzerland, in France, only acupuncture—a subset of Chinese medicine—is covered by insurance when performed by a conventionally recognized practitioner.
Linguistic and cultural barriers
The ability to speak the local language fluently is crucial when working abroad, particularly in countries where English is not widely used. Limited language skills can result in professionals accepting positions below their qualifications or engaging in less rewarding tasks than they would in their familiar environments.
For instance, Andres's experience in a German company illustrates this challenge. Hired with only a beginner level of German, recruiters initially reassured him that English would suffice for his role. However, he soon found himself sidelined from the most engaging projects. Although there was no ill intent from his colleagues, they naturally preferred to communicate efficiently in their native language, which inadvertently limited his involvement in significant assignments.
Professional specialization inherent to the local context
Some professions are intrinsically tied to the local context, particularly those that require detailed knowledge of the specific laws of a country.
Take Caroline's case, for example. Trained as a lawyer, she handled contract review and drafting for various clients before moving to Shanghai. While she could maintain some aspects of her work, her lack of familiarity with Chinese law meant that much of her role shifted towards general legal communication, which she views as a less challenging fallback. Competing with local professionals, who possess a deep understanding of the legal landscape, proved difficult for her in this new environment.
Loss of professional identity due to a career interruption abroad
Moving abroad often involves only one member of a household relocating for work, leaving their partner to experience what's known as "trailing" or accompanying, which can result in a career hiatus. Such interruptions can significantly impact one's sense of professional worth and identity. This is particularly prevalent among women, who may begin to doubt their capabilities due to extended periods out of the workforce.
Jenny's experience is a case in point. When her husband was relocated to India, she was unable to secure employment, leading to increasing frustration and eventually depression. She expresses a deep sense of devaluation, lamenting, "I felt like I was worth very little and worse, that it would be difficult for me to start working again later." This sentiment underscores the profound effects that career interruptions can have on personal identity and confidence.
Strategies for preserving or adapting one's professional identity abroad
Seek information about the possibilities of practicing your profession abroad
Before moving, it's crucial to conduct thorough administrative checks, particularly regarding visa types and the international recognition of your qualifications.
Not all visas permit work in the destination country. For example, in China, a category B visa, necessary for employment, requires at least a Bachelor's degree and two years of relevant professional experience. The process for obtaining this visa can be complex and subject to stringent conditions.
Moreover, the recognition of qualifications abroad often involves specific procedures, especially if the issuing institution is not well-known or accredited internationally. To navigate these complexities, it's advisable to consult with organizations like the ENIC NARIC center, which specializes in the recognition of academic and professional qualifications across borders. This preparation can help ensure that you can continue practicing your profession without unnecessary interruptions or setbacks.
Consider additional training or professional reorientation
If you encounter challenges with the recognition of your qualifications or need to adjust to local standards, pursuing additional training in the host country can be a viable option to continue your career.
For instance, foreign medical professionals looking to practice in the United States must pass specific exams, such as the USMLE, and often undergo additional training to align with local medical practices.
Factor in the time required for these training and certification processes. Consider this as an opportunity to explore new career paths or enhance skills that you've always been interested in developing. This approach not only bridges professional gaps but also enriches your personal and professional growth.
Have clear notions of the job market abroad in your sector
Even with visas and diploma recognition sorted, it's crucial to understand the job market for your sector in the new country. Professional devaluation can occur if there is a low demand for your expertise. For example, countries investing heavily in renewable energies likely have numerous opportunities for engineers specialized in that area. Conversely, a country focused on fossil fuel production may offer fewer opportunities for such professionals.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the job market in a specific country, it's advisable to consult reports on the economy and employment from international organizations like the OECD or EURES, as well as local institutions such as chambers of commerce and labor ministries. These resources can provide valuable insights into the demand for your profession and help you make informed decisions about your career abroad.
Learn the language and understand the work culture
Mastering the local language after just one or two months of even intensive study is unlikely, but making the effort to learn it sends a strong signal of openness to your colleagues. Familiarity with the local language not only predisposes people to view you favorably but also minimizes the risk of being excluded from certain projects.
Equally important is understanding the cultural nuances of the workplace. Cultural training can equip you with the communication and team management skills necessary to thrive in a new work environment. This knowledge helps build rapport and effectively navigate workplace dynamics.
Consider remote self-employment
When the conditions for practicing your profession are not met in the host country, consider continuing your work as an independent contractor. Becoming self-employed allows you to set your own objectives, choose your fields of intervention, and select your clients as you see fit.
This approach is particularly viable if your professional activities can be conducted remotely, freeing you from local constraints. However, assessing the legal requirements for starting and managing a business while residing abroad is crucial. Understanding these regulations will help ensure that your independent practice is compliant and successful in your new environment.
Networking, mentorship, and coaching
Engage with local professional associations, expat groups, or industry-specific gatherings. Networking is a strategic tool that can unveil new opportunities and support career development in a foreign country.
A well-chosen mentor can provide dependable support, helping to alleviate feelings of alienation and navigate new professional landscapes.
If challenges persist or feelings of inadequacy arise, consider consulting a professional coach experienced in relocation issues. Such coaches can offer valuable strategies to adapt to changes, rebuild confidence, or effectively leverage a career break while abroad.
