Choosing the right country for career advancement

Published:  16 Jun at 6 PM
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There are many reasons for packing up and moving to a strange country, but one of the most persuasive is the chance to advance your career at the same time as experiencing a more enjoyable lifestyle.

A recent survey by InterNations found that one in every three expats who’d taken the plunge had done so for career reasons, whether they’d been sent overseas by their home country employer or had found a great opportunity themselves. A few of those who took the survey had been recruited by a local company, and a small number had moved overseas in order to start their own businesses.

Whatever the reason for the move, it’s crucial to select a destination with a great reputation for career advancement, high salaries and a fun lifestyle. Not all countries provide all three wishes, but those which do attract the brightest and the best. First in line is the USA, according to 70 per cent of respondents to the survey who’d arrived looking to advance in their specific fields whilst enjoying life. America was also popular with individual entrepreneurs intent on building a career and with those looking for a challenging job.

The UK attracts expats searching for career opportunities, although it’s not certain whether its attraction will be diminished post-Brexit. Wages in general are good, according to 63 per cent of respondents, even though London in particular isn’t one of the planet’s cheapest cities. For those fascinated with Asia, Taiwan is a great place to start, offering job security, a lively environment and real prospects of career advancements.

For the adventurous expat, Ecuador could be the answer for its friendly people, good workplace attitudes towards foreigners, totally different culture and laid-back lifestyle. Romania beat more obvious destinations such as the Netherlands, Germany and Switzerland for building a career, and has a far cheaper cost of living than most other European countries.

Australia is ever-popular due to it’s work-life balance, although it’s an expensive place in which to live. Over half the respondents to the survey said the cost of living caused constant financial headaches, even although their salaries had seemed adequate to begin with. On the other hand, up-and-coming Vietnam was popular for its low living costs, excellent career prospects and warm welcome to expat entrepreneurs. It’s also a fascinating, beautiful country offering a host of things to do and see.

Columbia isn’t all drug cartels and nighttime dangers, as it’s better known for its expat employment opportunities. Job satisfaction comes as standard, and the chances of career advances are high. Luxembourg come highly recommended for its work-life balance and job satisfaction, and Mexico gives professional expats the chance to make something special career-wise. Lawyers, medical professionals, entrepreneurs and freelancers all speak highly of the country.
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