Adjusting to a different work culture abroad

Table of contents

1. Set realistic goals and objectives

2. Research the local work culture

3. Develop your professional network

4. Learn the language

5. Adapt to change

Though an exciting prospect that opens you up to many professional opportunities, something to bear in mind is that the country’s business culture could be different from what you’re used to.

Steps like learning the local language, being adaptable to change and carrying out detailed research to find out more about the country’s customs. Continue reading for some tips about adjusting to the local work culture in your new role.

Set realistic goals and objectives

When you first begin your role abroad, setting goals and objectives can keep you engaged and help you monitor your progress. Discuss these with your line manager and create a plan for how you’re going to achieve them.

Firstly, have a think about what skills or experience you want to develop professionally. This could include things like learning the local language, working on a project that will aid you in understanding how the business works, or even mentoring a fellow expat.

It’s common practice when setting goals to use the SMART technique, which stands for: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. This criteria allows you to keep your objectives clearly defined and trackable.

Once set, refer back to your goals regularly to ensure you’re keeping on track. 1-2-1s with your supervisor can be valuable here; use these sessions as an opportunity to make adjustments to your goals or to add new ones.

Research the local work culture

Understanding the country’s business etiquette is beneficial when you’re working abroad, making the adjustment to working in a different country easier.

If you’re able to before you move, it’s useful to research the country’s customs, beliefs and values. This will assist you in preparing for your new role as well as immersing yourself in the local culture.

The learning doesn’t stop there though! When you’re at work, take some time to observe how your company operates on a day-to-day basis. This will give you a better understanding of social norms and enable you to build positive relationships with your colleagues.

Settling into expat life can take time while you get used to a new way of life and culture. Have a look at our blog for information that can be useful for this adjustment period.

Develop your professional network

Forming a good relationship with your colleagues in the workplace is essential, as you will likely be spending a lot of time together.

Collaborating on projects is a great way of doing this, providing you with the opportunity to knowledge share and problem solve together. You could also try organising a social gathering outside work to get to know your colleagues in a relaxed environment.

To develop your professional network further, attend events like seminars, conferences and talks. Benefits of this include learning about your chosen industry, improving your communication skills and meeting like-minded individuals.

Having a support system outside of work is equally important for feeling settled in your new home. Use online tools to network with local expats, who can share their experiences of living abroad and offer tips that could assist you.

Learn the language

Knowing the destination’s language can be beneficial when you’re working abroad, making conversations with your colleagues and daily activities easier. Being fluent in another language may also allow you to stand out from other candidates if you apply for other roles in the future.

Speaking the dialect as much as possible is recommended, such as when you’re ordering a drink at a café or paying for groceries. Chatting with your colleagues in the native language can also make you feel more confident, who will be able to correct you on your pronunciation.

In your spare time, consider enrolling on a virtual or in-person language course. Doing an online course is a convenient option, enabling you to learn from a location of your choice, while a face-to-face session means you can practise your speaking skills and receive immediate feedback.

Check out our blog for some more useful tips on how you can learn the local language when you’re living abroad.

Adapt to change

Being open to change is an important aspect of working abroad, helping you grow your professional skills and experience.

For instance, don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure of something at work, as this can give you a deeper understanding of how your workplace operates. This shows your willingness to learn and will support you in feeling more comfortable in your role.

Getting feedback from your colleagues or supervisor can be useful when you’re settling into work overseas. It can highlight both your strengths and areas for improvement and assist you in reaching your career goals.

Additionally, be proactive and learn at every opportunity. This could involve attending any training sessions the company provides or carrying out research to stay keep up-to-date with any important industry news or trends.