Our hunger for travel isn’t limited to going on holidays. In a globalised world, professionals are increasingly open to the idea of immigration, working — or even settling down — overseas. According to one study conducted in 2016 by Ipsos, 42% of Singaporeans would migrate if given the chance. In other parts of Asia, the sentiment is even stronger. One report, published by recruitment firm Hays in 2015, found 93% of Malaysian workers would consider working overseas. As would 60% of Indians, noted a survey by TimesJobs.
However, taking that leap of faith requires planning. If you’re thinking about relocating, these pointers may help you seize the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of migration.
Zero in on What You Want to Achieve
Making the most of your time abroad starts long before you step foot in your new home. Sit down with your family ahead of time and make a list of what all of you most want to accomplish. Is it to travel more within an exotic region? Or perhaps create a network of new friends and business partners?
Whatever your priorities, cement them in your mind, so that you have a set of actionable goals to work towards.
Reframe Challenges as Opportunities
Your move won’t always feel like a travel advert. There will be complex paperwork, potential misunderstandings and tricky cultural rules to learn. But each of these stumbling blocks offers a chance to grow and learn something new.
Feel like a fish out of water? Commit to learning the local language. Unsure about local etiquette? Take a course, and emerge with an invaluable understanding of cross-cultural business dealings.
New Contacts, Same Privileges
Forging a network of friends or potential business partners should be a key goal, but this can be easier said than done. Try plugging into events or venues where you know you will find like-minded people. Members of Standard Chartered Priority Banking, for example, may enjoy complimentary access to over 850 airport lounges worldwide (an excellent place to strike up conversation), plus invites to exclusive seminars.
While your lifestyle will adapt and grow in exciting ways, you will want to enjoy the same unparalleled private banking privileges, wherever you go. That’s why when you become a Standard Chartered Priority Banking client, your status automatically follows you across all our markets. What’s more, your immediate family members will enjoy the same recognition. And wherever you are, you can view consolidated account balances from multiple countries at a single banking site, thanks to Global Link, our online service. Global Link also lets you transfer funds in a range of currencies, even if your accounts are in different countries.
If you’re planning to move abroad and want an experienced financial partner who can support you, get in touch with Standard Chartered Priority Banking. It could be the first step to a ticket to adventure.
This article is brought to you by Standard Chartered Bank (Singapore) Limited. All information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as advice or an offer for any product or service. Standard Chartered is not liable for any informational errors, incompleteness, delays, or for any actions taken in reliance on information contained herein.