What new graduates need to know
It's natural to focus on cultural differences and the challenges that accompany them but remember to also think about cultural similarities and basic human connections. Socialize often and early to find what you have in common with your colleagues outside of work. Take a positive mindset and see your new colleagues through those commonalities, see them as people and let them see you the same way. Trust is built through socializing and getting to know each other, and in some cultures this carries over to the business world.
4. Always keep your goal in mind
Why are you working overseas? For fun, for career experience? Because it aligns with your personal mission and your sense of purpose?
Keep your goal in mind when things are getting you down, to motivate you onwards. Use that goal as your compass and align yourself with it when you need to decide how to move ahead.
5. Know yourself
How adaptable are you? How easy or difficult is it for you to work across cultures? What is unique about your own culture? Knowing yourself—your strengths and areas needing improvement—will give you a clarity that not only helps ground you, but it also shows you where you can focus your adaptation efforts.
