When we move to a new country we work hard at settling in. After all, we hope our assignment not only gets off to a good start but is ultimately a success.
Numerous parallels
Are you a budding entrepreneur with a business idea? If so, you can take confidence. In many ways, the skills you employed when settling into your life abroad will be needed to get your startup up and running. For example, budding entrepreneurs will conduct extensive market research when they start a business. This is no different to an expat doing their homework on their future destination before embarking on an assignment. You will read up on neighbourhoods, schools, the language, cuisine and multiple other factors. So, treat your business idea with the same tenacity and you’ll be off to a good start.
Step by step
As expats, we often set an objective for the day when settling in. Finding a grocery store. Figuring out how to use the public transport for the first time. Trying to register for something in a language you don’t speak. Setting up a business (especially in a foreign country) is a similar experience. You have to map out your goals. Make a ‘to do’ list. Then you take it step-by-step and get things done.
Seeking support
As an expat, we will often seek out experienced expats who will be able to share tips and impart wisdom. Being an entrepreneur is the same. When you start a business, you will seek out mentors to learn from their experiences and insights. We get a lot of practice introducing ourselves when overseas. We often learn to cut to the chase: “This is who I am – just minus the backstory.” Think of how you would introduce your business with the same efficiency. Make it succinct and sharp. This will be your elevator pitch for customers, clients or investors.
Network building
We will always make an effort when making friends overseas. We say yes to most invitations. We’ll attend coffee mornings and drinks. We network with the aim of making ourselves known and developing relations. We lay the groundwork, so to speak. You will have to do the very same for a business. So if you do wish to set up a business, remember you’ve already got many of the tools! And from living overseas you will know, whatever you don’t know, you’ll just have to learn!
Source: 8 Ways Living Abroad Is Like Starting Your Own Business
