Some Americans who work in other countries do so by choice; others are assigned to overseas posts by their employers. This book works well for both situations, though it begins with lots of advice for people who are driving their own career choices. The introduction and the first couple of chapters are designed for people who are making this exciting decision on their own. The big question about how to find work abroad is fully explored to help you make educated decisions. Those first two chapters are Get Started---Focus and Get the Facts---Research.
Chapter 3 advises Get Connected---Network! Lots of dos and don'ts here, supplemented by an appendix listing the American Chamber of Commerce offices in other countries. Chapter 4: Get Support---Ask. Chapter 5---Prepare. See the pattern? Chapter by chapter, this book helps you get your act together for the idiosyncrasies of global work and life. You'll learn how to prepare your resume for international job-seeking, how to conduct interviews, how to follow-up, and even warnings about what kinds of mistakes to avoid.
Chapter 7 will help you navigate through the jungle of visas, work permits, and an international work contract. You'll learn about compensation, how to get ready for the move, and how to prepare for culture shock. Chapter 8, Acculturate, will give you a good lesson in etiquette, social customs, and even a set of social profiles country-by-country about some of the places you're most likely to go. Wherever you go, you'll probably come back . . . and that's not as easy as you might think. Chapter 9 will guide you through the readjustment. This is a good chapter to read during your decision-making process. Anticipating the return, is this really something you want to do?
Yes, at this point in the book, you'll still have questions. That's why you'll be delighted to see that chapter 10 starts with Frequently Asked Questions. You'll find all kinds of tips in this chapter that will deepen your understanding of the adventure that lies before you.
Extra value is provided by the appendices and index. You'll get a good reading list, internet resources, and even a list of foreign embassies in Washington, D.C.
If you're considering working abroad, read this book . . . with a highlighter handy!