So you want to work overseas in mining as an expat?

So you want to work overseas in mining as an expat? Well, be prepared for a long process! Working overseas is not a simple process to get started – even a domestic position can take up to 3 months for everything to occur before you can start. For a role overseas, you’d be wise to assume it will take twice that amount. Some countries aren’t as well prepared to accept expats as others and this is reflected in their process. However, by being prepared you can alleviate some of the angst that goes with waiting.

On an assignment to the Middle East I had several years ago, the role was part of a joint venture which I thought would make the process much easier. I thought HR would just arrange everything and we’d be over there in a matter of weeks. It was not to be. There were government requirements on education, relationship status and work history that required sighted evidence. This is mainly as you are taking a role that could be filled by a national and the case for an expat to join the company has to be compelling.

When you add in factors such as time zones, language difficulties, communication methods, religious holidays, different working weeks and cultural differences, it can make for a frustrating time. In some cases it took up to a week to receive an answer to a simple email question. If you go through a recruiting agency specialising in international appointments, the process may go a little smoother but the time will probably remain the same for the process to be completed. If the country is predominately Muslim, Ramadan will add to the time it takes as things tend to slow down during this period of the year. So too will Eid and other religious holidays – every country has them.

As with any move, there are going to be challenges to face. With moving overseas, these challenges can be quite different and may come as a shock to some people. If you are taking family, I suggest you have them visit the location first for at least a week in order to get a feel for the place. Some companies insist on this – if offered, take it! There could be nothing worse than a family feeling like they’ve made a mistake 3 months into a 2 year contract.

Some locations are used to seeing expats so the novelty has worn off – you’ll be viewed as just another foreigner. In other places, you may be one of only a few families which will cause a range of responses. In the Middle East we definitely stood out – no more so than with my wife’s blonde hair. Be respectful of local traditions and customs – read as much as you can beforehand though take many of the forums with a grain of salt. Some people use them as a way of letting off steam about things they don’t like. Others offer great information that is very useful. You’ll soon work out what is a whinge and what is good advice. Everyone sees things through different eyes.

We’re more of a novelty where we are currently in Indonesia. Everyone wants to say hello, especially the younger generation, as they are keen to try their English language skills out on you. Try to make an effort to at least learn some of their common words and phrases. Numbers, locations, pleasantries, introductions and farewells are the main ones. If you make an effort, you’ll be rewarded with a greater experience from the locals, and you’ll be less likely to be charged ‘expat rates’ in shops.

Work out if you want to go home to Australia during your expat period as most companies offer at least one flight home for the family. Some people choose to take the opportunity to visit other locations and countries near to where they are as they may never get their again. Warning relatives back home on what you plan to do can allow them to make plans to visit.

Overall, working and living as an expat can be rewarding and fun. Many companies offer choices as to whether you work an extended FIFO arrangement or live in-country. Choose what suits you and your family the best. Some do not have a choice mainly due to education options. If you are offered the chance to live overseas, take it. Not only will it add to your resume in a positive way, you’ll also learn from the cultural experience and maybe even pick up another language along the way.