Set Clear Expectations
Understanding the expectations out for you is the basis for being able to perform in any task. If you do not know what the job expects, it is exceptionally difficult to be able to perform it well. The first step for dealing with this problem is to request details about what exactly is expected of you. Clear outlines of what the mission and the job entail and the steps towards successfully completing it offer you the chance to know and fulfill your responsibilities.
Once the details of the mission are available, set about discovering what is locally available to help you in the assignment. Depending on the post, Internet access and other modern amenities may not be available. Learning how to work around these obstacles and thrive is of utmost importance in being able to perform any job and to adapt. People often make assumptions based on what was available in the United States.
When it comes to lifestyles abroad, these assumptions are just as dangerous. Although learning about your job’s demands is vitally important, being able to adjust your own expectation of life is even more significant. Life abroad will not be like it is at home. Although work life may be interesting and engaging, be prepared for your living situations to be different. In countries like Taiwan or Japan, expats can expect to live within smaller apartments and forego the use of ovens. This may not sound like a significant drawback, but it can compile over time with other incidents of culture shock.
Having clear expectations enables the expat and their family to easily meet and overcome challenges. With twenty-five to forty percent of international assignments being terminated early, expats need to be prepared for worst case scenarios and know how to meet their job requirements. Failing an assignment can affect your self-esteem and career detrimentally—as well as the image of applicants who follow you. Rise to the occasion and learn what is expected beforehand.
Global Leadership & Expat Coaching 