You have made the decision to head for new horizons and finally landed your dream job in an exotic and exciting location - now comes the time to really prove yourself. More than ever before, international marketing jobs are rife. Hays Marketing offers some advice.
The booming media industry in India has opened up a potential gateway to a marketer’s playground: a young, vibrant population coupled with western investment and aspirations. The increase in western investments could also see higher wages for marketing jobs in the region.
Also in the spotlight is China, where recent events indicate the direction of things to come and excellent prospects for marketers. Starbucks has recently taken the VP of marketing for McDonald’s to increase awareness and presence while Proctor & Gamble has launched major product ranges in a previously untouched market. Rolling Stone magazine has made a major impact in its first few months of release.
Packing up and jet setting to your dream location is not easy. Competition is tough, misconceptions are often prevalent and economic, political and natural events mean that the international market can be unpredictable.
However, with a tenacious attitude and a focused mindset you can make yourself stand out from the crowd, reap the benefits of a stint abroad, and substantially increase your marketing job prospects if you choose to return to the UK in the future.
This is extremely important - especially in the aforementioned countries where little English may be spoken and when working closely with interpreters and translators.
If these are prevalent and embedded in your thinking, they may be construed as unenthusiastic and possibly this could be interpreted as apathetic behaviour.
Examples of common misconceptions:
These could not be further from the truth. A prerequisite for progressing in any organisation is to focus on the opportunity at hand and those who apply themselves properly will be rewarded.
You may be unaccustomed to them, but familiarising yourself with the local culture and customs is part of the enjoyment of working and living abroad and making the most of your international marketing job.
For example, did you know that it is a sign of disrespect to greet someone with your right hand in Tanzania and that any public show of strong emotions or embracing is considered disrespectful in Thailand? Things will be done differently but that does not mean that it is wrong. Accept the status quo and do not try and change things to suit the way to which you are accustomed.
Even if it does not come naturally to you or think there is no need because this is a work placement change your frame of mind and force yourself to socialise! Accept all invitations and get to know your colleagues: conveying an affable, confident and sociable persona is essential. A shy, retiring wallflower will not make the best impression, neither will an over-the-top extrovert. Make sure you get the balance right.
Other things to consider:
Local values always hold firm, but natives will be more than accommodating and welcoming to marketers who can provide value. Given the increase in western investment abroad, now is the time to start looking for your next marketing job.
Many core skills required are ones that people will bring with them. This means that you can get up to speed quickly, make an impact, and your experience will stand you in good stead on your return home.
Remember they have hired you because your skills and experience are valuable to them so try not to be overwhelmed with the move - think of it as transferring to another role in your home country. And finally…listen to advice but follow your instincts: if something does not make sense to you, ask for more information and do not be afraid of appearing stupid!
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