Expatriation: you don’t want to fail!

Do you know why expatriation fail?

• Insufficient support and preparation
• Cultural adjustments challenges
• Family stress

Too often, future expats only consider the financial benefits.

Never enough the human side of the adventure. 

That’s a big mistake. 

As a result, I am regularly coaching expatriates who find themselves in the difficult situation of dealing with mental health issues.

And very often, that’s the wife who I have to coach.

Why?

Because it’s usually the wife:

• who has to resign to follow her partner abroad, 

• who now has the heavy duty to anchor the family in their new country, 

• who turns herself into a superwoman dealing with basically everything: school, transportation, food, paperwork, etc.

• who bears the pressure to make sure the family is happy.

So, I have gathered here a few questions that could summarise the challenges my clients raise during their coaching sessions.

Read them with your partner and answer them honestly.

• What are the primary motivations for you to move? 

=> Is it career advancement, personal growth or financial benefits?

• How will your family adjust to the new environment? 

=> What support systems are available for them, what the expat environment looks like?

• What are the educational options for your children? 

=> Are international schools available, is the curriculum aligned with your expectations, are the school’s fees covered by your employer (the costs can climb over 25k euros per kid, no even including uniforms, canteen, bus)?

• How will you maintain your current standard of living? 

=> Are there cost-of-living adjustments provided?

• What healthcare options are available in the new country? 

=> Does the employer provide international health insurance, is there any international hospitals around?

•  What are the long-term implications for your careers and retirement plans? 

=> Will international experience enhance your future career prospects?

• All in all, will expatriation make you and your family happy?

This is a very short sample of the questions you must ask yourself before leaving.

Remember, expatriation is not for everyone!

If you plan to work abroad, you need to be prepared.

As a coach and as an expatriate for over 12 years now, I have the right experience to be your best support!