Whether you’re moving abroad as part of a business assignment or you’re selling your possessions and moving overseas in pursuit of adventure, there are some key steps that you can take to ensure that the move is smooth, and your relocation rocks.
Here are our Top Five hacks for truly moving abroad rather than just ‘physically relocating’:
1. Start learning the local language
While you may be able to get away with speaking English, you’ll find that it will be far easier to network, conduct business and integrate yourself into your local community when you make an effort to speak the local language.
If you lead a busy lifestyle, you may find that the most efficient way to learn a new language is to check out online resources. Language apps, such as Langu.ag are also a fantastic way to pick up some words on the go.
2. Research local expat communities
Once you have arrived at your new destination, you will most likely form wonderful new friendships with a range of people that you encounter along the way. In the meantime, it is a great idea is to join an expat community as these folk will no doubt be able to give you invaluable advice based on their experiences. Your expat contacts will be able to advise you of local practices or customs that you may be unaware of saving you from potential cultural blunders.
For example, in some cultures it’s not customary to extend a handshake when greeting a business contact. It is important to understand the cultural etiquette for your new destination. If you’re relocating for business reasons, you may also find that joining an expat club will introduce you to local professionals who can share valuable tips and tricks.
To find a friendly expat community before you make your big move, it’s well worth visiting the Internations website. At present, Internations boasts 2.3 million members and offers expat clubs in 390 cities.
3. Seek out International Colleagues
If you’re being relocated for work, request that your company put you in contact with employees who live in the country that you’re relocating to. If you’re given the opportunity, don’t hesitate to email a contact, and ask for cultural or language advice before your arrival.
If your workplace is unable to put you in contact with a local, you may want to search for an ‘e-pal’, who is interested in a cultural exchange. As well as being able to practice your fledgling language skills and get a sense of what everyday life is like in your chosen country, you’ll also be able to share your own native culture and language with your e-pal in exchange. A win-win situation as you get to understand how they perceive your culture at the same time, and be prepared for this when you arrive.
4. Local Organizations and Clubs
What better way to find new local friends and networks than attending events and activities that you enjoy! Researching local organizations and clubs that replicate your native hobbies and interests in your home country will ensure that you are instantly integrated with ‘common ground’.
If you’re a keen sportsman or sportswomen, you may be interested in joining a local sports team or a local hiking club. If you’re religious, you may want to search for local churches or temples in your new neighborhood. If you’re looking to move to a foreign country with your family, it’s also advisable to research community-based clubs for your children to join ahead of time. Be prepared – emails to a few clubs ahead of your move, and get the whole family excited and involved. Your local ‘home’ clubs or organizations may even be able to introduce you to their international networks!
5. Research, Research, Research!
Preparation is key before relocating to a new country, and understanding your new culture is one of the most important first steps! Research ahead of time and ensure that you are aware of such things as the local cuisine, festivals, holidays, dress code, working hours, dominant religions and spiritual beliefs, plus local customs.
You may be interested in visiting Expat Forum, which boasts 175,000 international members, and a range of articles and blogs on your new destination that will familiarize you with your new way of life.
So if you’re planning on moving abroad, it is never too early to start your preparations. There is a range of great resources out there to ensure that your move is successful and that the year ahead is an exciting and memorable adventure!
P.S Don’t arrive without being able to say at least hello in the new language!
Andrie Steliou
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