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Job search advice taken from our survey: Current State of Overseas Contracting Jobs, Part 2
By William Beaver, editor, DangerZoneJobs.com
Monday, July 14, 2008
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We have compiled some of the comments taken from our survey, which includes some interesting advice about working overseas as a contractor.
You can download the complete report here (it's in pdf format and needs something like Adobe Reader to see it): http://www.dangerzonejobs.com/dzjreport.pdf
- Bill
Please feel free to email this to someone who would benefit from the information.
Someone who filled out our survey left behind 30 excellent points about looking for overseas contracting jobs and some about actually working when you've found a job. Whoever you are, thanks for the great advice!
Learn about the Company before applying.
How long has the Company been in business?
How many employees?
What Contracts has the company been awarded?
How long are the Contracts? It will not benefit you long if you get a big salary for 4 or even 6 months and you are out of work because the the contract has ended.
What is the leave policy for R&R? Sick Leave? Emergency Leave?
What are the promotion policies? How often does the Company promote?
How High is their attrition rate?
Does the Company promote within Theatre (overseas)? Or does the Company hire new folks from Stateside to be placed in promoted positions?
Always keep your resume updated.
Always check the internet (Danger Zone Jobs) site for other companies that offer Contract Positions for your qualifications. Also research other positions that offer cross qualifications for you.
If possible speak with Contract Employees presently with the Company you want to apply to for employment. Ask these Contract Employees how they like the Company? Big task "JUST LISTEN" do not give your opinions concerning their statements. Be neutral and absorb the information like a Sponge.
Once you accept the position and start to work with the Company overseas, be alert for warning signs.
How are you treated by co-workers, supervisors?
How is the work environment with the staff? Professional or unprofessional?
Is the company downsizing in Theatre giving the job positions to the TCN'S after you train them because it is cost effective for the Company?
Set your goals. Save your money, Remember this is not a job forever, it can end tomorrow without notice.
Keep alert with the News regarding who takes office in six months. It may mean the difference of how long jobs are available in theatre for contractors.
Remember you are here to work. There is nothing else but work and sleep.
You are responsible for your SAFETY first. Be alert.
Living conditions will vary from tents, chicken coups, trailers, wooden hatches, barracks and apartments. You will have to share.
You will meet people from all cultures.
Your behavior, dress, and speech will have to adhere to the policies of your company.
Be prepared that some individuals who may be supervisors may or may not be knowledgeable about the work. Employees may or may not be related to persons in the company.
Some staff may receive preferential status.
Keep focused on your goals and family.
Important to stay in touch with family it will help you keep matters real and in perspective.
You are not home any more and your "Rights" may not matter to the customs and traditions of the country you are working and residing in at the present time.
Keep your CAC card, Passport, and at minimum $100.00 US dollars on you at all times.
You will learn a lot about yourself if you choose to learn and listen.
Remember this, "There are No Friends, There are No Enemies, ONLY TEACHERS." God Bless and BE SAFE.
