Being an expat is by no means easy, and it brings multiple challenges for you to overcome. You have to be prepared for a completely different lifestyle, immersed in a foreign culture, which can be a huge shock to the system, especially if it is the first time you stay abroad for such a long time. The benefits of living in a different country are countless and you will be glad that you made it, but first you need to get through the initial adjustment period.
During that time, it's good to have a job so that you can pay your bills and feel independent. Of course, you may have gathered some substantial savings or know all about a Purple Parking discount code, grocery coupons, or second-hand stores in the area, but these are all short-term solutions.
It's not easy to find employment in a new environment, but there are some professions that are quite universal and can be done anywhere. From online freelance jobs to the hospitality industry, below are some of the most popular job ideas for newcomers to the expat life. Read on and start planning your career in a new country.
EFL Teacher
It's highly possible that as an expat, you will be looking for English-speaking jobs only. This may sound like a difficulty, but there are plenty virtually everywhere. One of the most common is teaching English as a foreign language, or EFL. The demand for experienced and certified English teachers is high in many countries, and you can also find online teaching opportunities if you want to work from home.
Although lower-proficiency students may not be ready to switch to English only, many colleges or even high schools provide opportunities for their students to work with native speakers and learn proper pronunciation. If you are planning to teach in another country, it's a good idea to get certified before you leave. This way, you will be able to find a job that pays well.
Taxi Driver
What is a better way to get to know the locals and their customs than by being a taxi driver? Driving around the city is perfect for learning your way around the place and meeting some people. If you are good with directions and have some basic driving skills, this can be a great opportunity for you.
However, keep in mind that you need to know the local laws regarding taxi driving and get a license before you can start working. Even though you may have had your license done years ago in your home country, there is a chance that it will not be valid in the country you are moving to. It's a good idea to look into this before getting your hopes up.
Freelancer
If you are looking for a job that can be done from anywhere, the best way to go is freelancing. Being a freelancer means you can work remotely and not depend on one company. The range of tasks that you can do as a freelancer is wide, from writing to website design, so you can pick something that you are good at and enjoy doing.
The only thing you need to think about is what you want to do. However, it’s essential to be experienced in your chosen field, as the competition in freelance jobs is quite high. You need to be able to stand out from the crowd, or you will end up with no or fewer gigs. If that's not possible, try to learn a new skill and use that as your selling point.
Hospitality Worker
Maybe you want an entry-level job that doesn't require a lot of experience or skills? If that's the case, you can consider working in the hospitality industry.
You don’t need much to start serving customers at restaurants or hotels, and if you are in a more tourism-oriented place, your language skills will come in handy.
Consider checking the local edifices, as they often hire foreigners to work in their stores and cafes. The pay is not high, but you will get a chance to interact with different people, polish your language and get used to the new environment and culture.
If you are looking for a job that can be done by anyone, this is the one.
Tour Guide
If you want to work in the tourism industry but don't want to drive around the city, you can become a tour guide. As English is now lingua franca, there's a high chance that the tourists coming from abroad will speak at least some of it. This way, you can interact with them and show them around.
Of course, you need to know the local attractions and be able to tell a good story. If you sign up with an independent provider, you'll most likely receive training, which is great if you don't have much experience in the field. And on top of that, you'll actually get paid for learning about the local culture and history.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are many options for those looking for new jobs. If you're relocating to a foreign country, it's important that you think about what kinds of job would suit you the most and get ready before moving. With proper preparation, your transition will be much easier than if you just decided to wing it.
Being a tour guide or an EFL teacher will require some extra effort, but it will be worth it. You can use these jobs to gain experience and knowledge about the local culture that you are in. And once you get used to living in a new country, you'll find many more opportunities open up for you so that your transition into expat life is smooth and easy!
