Considering career change + overseas relocation? Here’s a guide…
Posted by CathyG in moving, relocation on 05 24th, 2008Just came across a book Grown-up’s Guide to Running Away From Home: Making a New Life Abroad by Rosanne Knorr.
The title of this book is somewhat misleading: it’s really a detailed guide to overseas relocation. Knorr’s book gets 5 stars simply because it does what it promises: offers a straightforward guide to those who are considering an overseas move but have no idea where to start.
The book is heavy on checklists, which I usually don’t like. But it’s got lots of text and the checklists are more comprehensive than most.
However, I would recommend (a) reading multiple guides and (b) talking to folks who have been there. Try to find someone who’s been in your situation. A 60+ retiree won’t benefit from talking to a twenty-something; a single person needs to understand how a culture interprets her lifestyle.
I spent a few years in Canada on a “landed immigrant” visa (equivalent to a green card) as a business school professor. It’s been awhile, but I would say the info here seems accurate and balanced. The author assumes her readers will be concerned about safety and health care. Your beliefs, values, and interpretation of events will influence your own priorities.
But for a starting point, you could do a lot worse.
read comments (0)Financial planning for a job loss
Posted by CathyG in career coaching, job loss on 05 18th, 2008When you lose your job, the first question that comes to mind is, “How will I survive financially?”
I haven’t seen much good advice for dealing with the financial side of career change, but I like this article:
http://www.fpanet.org/public/tools/jobloss.cfm#steps
Some points I especially like:
- Cobra may not be your best option for health insurance.
- Make at least some effort to negotiate your severance.
- Consider asking for cash instead of outplacement services. Then you can choose your own resource.
Not surprisingly, this article is posted on the website of the Financial Planning Association. When my own clients undergo a career change or crisis, I always recommend sitting down with a licensed, qualified financial planner.
But don’t choose just anybody. Do your homework. Get references. Don’t hire that nice guy (or gal) you just met at the networking meeting.
