Working abroad: What’s in it for me?

Work abroad?

Experience a new culture: No two countries are the same. Working abroad will immerse you in a new culture and expose you to fresh sights, sounds, tastes and experiences. It will broaden your horizons, so take every opportunity you have to get involved.
Learn a new language: The EU is a mix of languages and dialects. This means it’s highly likely that you’ll get the chance to improve your linguistic skills while working abroad. In fact, living abroad is considered to be one of the best ways to learn a new language because you’ll be surrounded by it every day.
Boost your self-confidence: Once you’ve taken that first step into the unknown, you’ll probably surprise yourself by how well you adapt to everything around you. And the more new experiences you expose yourself to, the more confident you’ll become in your ability to handle everything life sends your way.
Improve your future job prospects: Depending on your home country and chosen industry, the job market can be highly competitive. Spending a year or two working in a country where competition is less fierce can be a great way of gaining experience that will help to put you a step above everyone else when (or if!) you return home.
Develop your own set of values: Working abroad gives you the chance to develop your own unique set of values and perhaps change your perspective on certain things. It will help you to reassess your thoughts and opinions, and you’ll be able to discover what really matters to you.

How should I prepare?

Do your research: Language, culture, religion, beliefs – each EU country is wonderfully unique, with its own way of doing things. A little online research can help you to gain an understanding of the general customs and etiquette of your target country and prepare you for life abroad.
Learn (a little of) the language: While you can certainly pick up a new language after you arrive in a new country, having a good grasp of the basics before you go will make communicating easier. It could also open up new opportunities both socially and professionally.
Pack smartly: Think about where you are going and what you’ll need carefully. What familiar home comforts can you not live without? Don’t rely on being able to pick them up from a local supermarket – some products will be unique to your home country, so make sure you bring them with you.
Get your finances in order: If you’re going to be abroad for more than a few months, it’s probably worth setting up a new bank account in your target country so that you have easy access to funds. Or if that’s not an option, it’s wise to tell your bank that you’re moving abroad so that they don’t think your account details have been stolen.
Enjoy yourself: Yes, you’re in another EU country to work, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself. Each country has its own unique sights to see, history to absorb and culture to embrace. Put aside some time to take all this in and ensure you return home with no regrets.

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