CABL Forum - Re: working overseas

I have worked overseas and it was a good experience for me.

Depending on your living arrangements, "contacts or connections" and compensation , this could make it a plesent or bad experience.

Every country has its good and bad points. Language barrier, diseases (get your shots depending on where you go), food (much different than the American taste), visa restrictions, transportation, medical facilities (don't expect a 1st Class ER depending on where you at), no 24-hour "7-11's" or gas stations, traffic might make rush hour in Los Angeles look like a picnic, money (suggest use ATM in that country if possible for best exchange rate), safety (again, varies on what country) and more.

Be prepared for 220-VAC / 50-Hz, and if you bring a voltage converter, remember your electric alarm clock from USA will run about 1-hour slow over night due to many expect 60-Hz. Most USA electrical devices will run slower due to this fact.

Bottom line, don't expect the luxury of the USA in 3rd world countries or you will be shocked. Simple things we Americans are used to in daily life are privilidges to most of the world.

Don't expect the system/company people to work a standard 8-5 day in some countries. You might be told to be ready at 8am to be picked up at hotel. When your ride shows up, it might be 11am. When you get to the office, it will be 1pm. Now you have to go to lunch. Lunch ends at 4pm. Now you have 1-hour to work (that is if your ride can stay. The traffic might have him take you to hotel after lunch). This could be a daily routine. Seriously!!!! This is typical in many places in South America, but NOT ALWAYS.

I worked in beautiful places like Singapore and China, but also have been in the Calcutta gutters as well. South America is great, but, depending where you go, safety is always a concern. Been all over Colombia and in Bogota it was great, but in other parts there were known kidnappings and looting. Many other places too, but to many to list here.

The best advice anyone can give an American overseas is:
1. Use common sense.
2. Don't go where it might be dangerous alone.
3. Don't talk politics.
4. Don't talk religion.
5. Respect the other countries laws or be prepared to pay the price. Remember, many countries STILL excute for drugs and being an American is no exception.
6. Respect the people and don't act like a "hot shot".

It is very helpful to know a few terms in the local language. They will respect you for that, trust me. Also, if you work in Asia, bring some good old American Marlboro cigarettes...you would be supprised how many doors this will open for you!

I do not want to scare you from overseas, but just some FYI stuff. I have always had great times and enjoyed meeting international people and learning their cultures. If you have their respect, you should have little or no problems.

Good luck!

Greg Tobin
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Re: working overseas