One of the great opportunities that some people experience is the ability to live and work in another country. There is a significant difference between moving to a country where English is a well accepted and spoken language by the majority of the population and a non-English speaking location. The non-English speaking environment has some obvious issues with communication. However, the challenges of both are in some respect just as difficult and initially everyday living may not be easy.
In both situations, the major issues to deal with are finding somewhere to live, finding schools, understanding transportation, how to travel around, grocery shopping and what is available to do in your leisure time. However, in a non-English speaking country there can be an advantage in that often there is a tight expatriate community that can be tapped into that is always very helpful. It can be a source of quick and targeted information because there will always be someone who already has the knowledge. This is particularly true if you have school age children. With most people sending their children to an English or American school with a concentration of expatriates, making friends can be just that bit easier as everyone is or has been in a similar position. As such many parents will meet through school functions or just dropping children off at school.
On face value an English speaking environment may seem easier and in some respects is. At least the language is relatively similar although there are differences in expressions and interpretation of language. One of the key problems is finding new friends. Many find it difficult to find and develop relationships with others and will rely on work colleagues to help them along the way. In many places, the expatriate community may not be as well organized and so this avenue is not as readily available.
Having children becomes a great catalyst for integrating into a community. You will meet other parents, but it is not may not be like an expatriate community. In many cases parents drop off while rushing to work and don't stop to meet and chat with others. Therefore, participation in sport can be a big factor and if both parents and children join sports clubs the ability to meet others and settle in is dramatically enhanced.
The key to success of any overseas transfer may not necessarily be the work itself, but the ability to quickly settle into life and become comfortable in a new culture. In either case it can be a real benefit to have a helping hand, someone who knows the ropes and can give you expert advice. The ease and speed at which a family undergoing a corporate relocation can settle into a new country will benefit the company significantly.
Some international moving companies will have staff with the knowledge and experience to guide you before you arrive in your new country and be a friendly advisor once you arrive. Moving overseas and taking up a new job and having to quickly fit into the local company culture is difficult enough. However, if your family is settled and enjoying the new experience much of the daily stress can be relieved. This allows you to concentrate on making most of your new appointment.
To assist you, think seriously about engaging a relocation consultant that has the local knowledge to help you and your family settle into a new location quickly. The benefits will far outweigh the costs.
Geoff Cooper has undertaken a number of corporate relocations including two to Asia. His international moving experiences have been significantly enhanced by using the right moving company with international expertise that has a broad range of services to help families settle into their new location quickly and easily.
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