International secondment: the key considerations

Much is written about the benefits of a career working internationally. Organisations see it as a great opportunity to share best practice, to develop careers and to strengthen their corporate culture in disparate locations. What is often less considered, are the actual effects on the individual. As someone who has recently returned from a three year secondment with PageGroup to Canada, many people have asked why I did it, would I do it again, why did I return and what did I learn? 

Moving abroad is a huge move – both on a professional and personal level, and whilst it can be an incredibly rewarding experience, it is not a change to be taken light-heartedly. As a husband and father of three I was moving the family away from what they knew and were comfortable with - schools, family and friends, not to mention myself starting a new job in a new country.

Points to remember when considering an international secondment

  • You differentiate yourself professionally though working abroad

Most large companies have an international presence and very few of their senior management have practical experience of living, working and operating in a different country. You will be one of a small group of people with this skill.

  • Expect a tough landing

As with any job you need to learn a lot in a short period of time and are likely to feel pressure to impress your new team. This is at the same time as potentially trying to settle your family into a new country.

  • Your whole life is now linked to your job 

You may be on a sponsored visa and have had support in moving – therefore your entire family’s whole existence in the new country is linked to you remaining in that job.

  • Embrace your new culture

The food is different, the language may be different and things will be done differently. This is a great opportunity to see how things may be done elsewhere. It’s essential to embrace and enjoy these differences, remember each day is an adventure and be wary of referring back to how you used to do things in your country of origin. Adapt your style to the local way of doing things and this makes you better and more flexible as an employee and a manager!

  • Be flexible, adaptable, and network to make the most out of your assignment

Many of the larger expat hubs have British expat social groups but it takes a while to make really good friends. Therefore, be prepared to be pushed out of your comfort zone and take the opportunity to try different activities.

  • Remember the travelling partner 

If you are working, especially in a sociable industry like recruitment, it is very easy to meet new people and socialise but that option might not be available for your partner.

  • Family

Your family will have enjoyed a temporary stay in a different country which has expanded horizons, increased confidence and opened them up to embracing new possibilities in a positive way.

  • Don’t worry about the return. Enjoy the experience

Learn new skills and challenge how and why you work as you do because good people are always in high demand. 

Summary

An international secondment is a great opportunity and the experience and new skills that you will learn during your secondment will enhance your employability when you return. However, to succeed on your assignment you will need to have learned new skills, demonstrated flexibility, looked at challenges and problems from different perspectives, and displayed both your ability to take on a new challenge and the confidence to take it in your stride.
For more information or to discuss how we can help with your job search contact your local Michael Page office. Alternatively, create a MyPage account to submit your CV and one of our expert consultants will be in touch.
If you are returning from a secondment and looking for your next role in finance please contact Matthew O'Donnell, Operating Director, Michael Page Finance.
T: +44 118 955 9041