Is the grass greener overseas?

Posted in:Misc Society & Culture Career Growth

I've heard from many people that the job market in the US is tough right now, with some folks spending over a year searching without success. As a result, many are exploring opportunities abroad, particularly in call centers and teaching positions.

Has anyone here had personal experience with this? Did you find land a job overseas easier than in the US? What kind of role did you secure, and how long did it take? I'm curious about the pros and cons of this move. Any advice on securing an overseas job would be greatly appreciated!

judithsoldyess·Aug 21

This is a rough one and I'm not an expert by any means. I can tell you I moved to Spain five years ago *but* I have dual citizenship. If I didn't I'd have to get a residency permit to work here. Also, Spain has some of the lowest salaries around AFAIK. For example, my housekeeper makes around $14-15 per hour and that's in the high end. The same project manager job I could have in Chicago for $120K will pay about $55K here (a comparable one anyway in terms of responsibilities, and full time). It also uses to be that the cost of living was much lower in Spain. That's still true in comparison to the US, but not as much as it used to be. Prices have risen considerably the past 3 years. For example, my groceries for the week used to cost around €90 back then. I just came back from the grocery store and paid €189 for similar purchases. Maybe a couple of extra things but by no means more than double. Overall it's still cheaper to live in Spain than in Chicago but the salaries are also commensurate.That all being said, this is related to the cost of living here, not of living in the US and working abroad. I hope it gives you some perspective.

akiliaharankine·Aug 22

Thank you so much for providing me with additional context. I believe this is the same for most places actually it’s a lot to consider for sure

mjrebolledo·Aug 21

Hi! I lived in Japan for 5 years, and I met over there many people from English-speaking countries who preferred to move there for the adventure. I have never met someone who was there for career development. Many ended up as English language teachers. So I think it depends on the purpose of your decision. If it is only career development, the US job market and its currency are a great choice.

akiliaharankine·Aug 22

Thanks for sharing! I know teaching aboard is definitely a option to consider 😌

marissajoakim·Aug 26

hey! So yes, I just considered living abroad with a digital nomad visa but I am looking to be in person again. Countries like Germany and Luxembourg are looking to hire from abroad since their working age population has dwindled considerably. Find me on LinkedIn and I can tell you more!I am looking to relocate back to NYC but if that doesn't work out, I am considering Europe sooner than later. There are SO many more Americans living there now!

akiliaharankine·Aug 27

WOW! This was very insightful thank you so much! I just sent an invitation request on LinkedIn and would love to set up an official one on one via google meets to hear more about your experience and what you have to say

marjorieaageeb·Aug 27

I am from the Philippines and I have an MD degree. The American dream is still alive for us looking from the outside in. Entering the US is difficult. Once we enter the country we go through a lot of hoops. Some of us even with medical degrees, couldn't practice and had to go thru other routes (like teaching, fellowship, nursing practice, counseling). However, some would persist and after years of trying get rewarded with their dream job. In my observation, some people still get to live their American dream but may not be along the lines of their original career goals or position. I am currently accepted to practice in The Bahamas. But this is due to shortage of MD's with my specialty, Radiology.

akiliaharankine·Aug 27

WOW This is very cool thanks for sharing this with me, I would love to learn more about your experience in a more detailed manner and hear any tips you may have if you are open and willing to share. Please feel free to connect