Menu
Expat.com

Young professional English move to Katowice

Last activity 15 May 2017 by ramon741

Post new topic

BenMcNally

Hi all,

I am a 22 year old graduate originally from the midlands in U.K. But currently working and living in London for Unilever.

I have been offered a job in Katowice for a year with unilever and I have no idea what to do!

I have never been to Poland before and don't speak a word of Polish. The language in the office I am told is English.

Does anyone have any advice on life in Katowice for a non Polish speaker?

Also if there are any English speaking expats it would be great to get in touch as me and my partner will be looking to make friends.

Thanks,

Ben

jakethrelkeld

Hi Ben,

I was in a similar situation 4 years ago. A sudden offer to move to Poland from Indianapolis, to work in the company's EU manufacturing facility and assist with their Intl marketing efforts....

We've been very happy that we decided to take the leap and go. We've made great friends, and happily extended our 2 year commitment to 5.

I have to say however, that our situation was very much facilitated by the company - they provided 100% support in order to bring us here and set us up. Sure, we did a lot of things ourselves, but always knowing we had backup if we needed it.

If the company is going to assist and help with the visa/work permit and housing and everything, I believe you'll have the perfect opportunity to come and really focus on enjoying Poland for everything it has to offer. However, if they're expecting you to figure out a lot of that yourself, it will be more difficult (in my opinion). Many people have done it successfully though, that can advise you better than I can.

The 'English' in the office was rough when I first arrived, but we managed and now we have meetings fluidly in English and even Polish (I can follow along ). You'll want to learn as much Polish vocab as you can.

But if you have a lot of company support for the move, I would say don't hesitate! You'll be in a nice part of Poland with lot's to see and do!

ramon741

Hey Ben,

I see that your post is from about 2 months ago. Did you make the leap of faith and go to Katowice?

I am moving there also in a couple of months and I could use some good advice from someone who has done the same.

I got a great job offer there and need to set up alot of things.

Articles to help you in your expat project in Poland

  • Phones and Internet in Poland
    Phones and Internet in Poland

    Find, in this article, an overview of the Polish telecommunications market and some tips to help you get ...

  • Traveling to Poland with your pet
    Traveling to Poland with your pet

    Moving to Poland with your pet? Find out about the requirements you will need to meet when entering the country ...

  • Work in Wroclaw
    Work in Wroclaw

    Looking for a job in Wroclaw? Learn more about the city and get some useful job hunting tips in this article.

  • Accommodation in Poland
    Accommodation in Poland

    When planning a long stay in Poland, finding accommodation will be one of your main priorities. Here's a brief ...

  • Driving in Poland
    Driving in Poland

    Are expats allowed to drive in Poland? Can they use their international driver's license? Find out in this ...

  • Healthcare in Poland
    Healthcare in Poland

    Are expatriates eligible for free healthcare in Poland? What are the relating conditions and formalities? Find out ...

  • Internship in Poland
    Internship in Poland

    Looking for an internship in Poland? Find out how and where to look for opportunities, learn about visa ...

  • Leisure in Poland
    Leisure in Poland

    Wondering how to keep yourself busy in your free time in Poland? Find all that you need to know about leisure in ...

All of Poland's guide articles