What is the global labor market like in 2023?
The early days of COVID suggested that global mobility would come to an end. Since the borders were closed, it was better to make do with the existing workforce. New rules emerged, like in Singapore, where locals were prioritized in the labor market. In Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman, job nationalization programs were accelerated. In these countries, where most of the population is foreign, the "Saudiization", "Kuwaitization" or "Omanization" of jobs has led to abuses and to a rise in mistrust of foreigners who were still needed.
The truth is, people never stopped traveling! They were just forced to stay home due to the global lockdowns, which conversely resulted in an ever-greater desire to pursue a career abroad. If the willingness to increase one's income often comes in the motivations, it goes hand in hand with a desire to live better in places where well-being is just as important as a good salary. Mental health is also being taken more seriously and according to the WHO, there is an urgent need to transform mental health services. Moreover, it is being said that every country needs to develop better infrastructure with the aim of transforming the places where people live.
For more and more prospective expats, this transformation involves living abroad. They are not only aware of the global challenges of 2023 that await them (like the energy crisis, wars, decrease in purchasing power, etc.) but are also conscious of the opportunities that exist.
Labor shortages and new opportunities
A global shortage has been plaguing the world since the economic recovery in 2021. This scarcity of human resources differs from one country to another. Still, it affects more or less the same sectors, namely the building industry, transport, hotels, restaurants, healthcare, teaching, engineering, aeronautics, etc. In countries such as Japan, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Europe, recruitment campaigns are currently in full swing.
By the end of 2022, there were more than 6 million job vacancies in Europe. Some 87% of businesses in Germany alone reported difficulties in recruiting. In France, the aeronautics industry is short of manpower. Airbus wants to recruit 16,000 people this year. The French giant had already recruited 15,000 people in 2022. But it is never easy to retain talent in the context of increasing global offers. Everyone in the industry needs skilled workers at the same time. This can be considered a boon for prospective expats.
Japan is becoming increasingly open to immigration. Since November 2021, holders of the Specified Skill Worker Visa no longer have a limited duration of stay. Their permit is renewable indefinitely. In fact, the situation in Japan is particularly critical, and according to the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the country will need 4.2 million foreigners by 2030 and even more by 2040 (6.7 million).
Unlike other countries such as France, where the labor shortage is expected to be somewhat less severe this year, in Japan, all the indicators remain in the red. The situation is slightly better in Canada but remains just as problematic. In the face of its aging population, the country is maintaining its target of 500,000 new immigrants this year. This is essential, according to the government, to sustain growth. Electronics, human resources, engineering, accounting, personal assistance, caregivers, customer service, teaching, construction, etc. Almost every sector is affected. For eligible expatriate candidates, this is an opportunity to build a career abroad.
More tips for working abroad
Organization and patience are the two keys to proper planning for your move abroad. Here are some practical tips for those seeking to work abroad and integrate into their host country. First of all, keep in mind that it is essential to speak your host country's language to facilitate integration at all levels. The importance of learning the host country's language cannot be overstated.
How to find job offers abroad?
Employment agencies, Chambers of Commerce, professional, social and informal networks, acquaintances circles, alumni, etc., are some of the places where you can access job offers. Depending on your expat country and the job you are applying for, some resources will work better than others. Always remember that doing your research in your host country's language will increase your chances of finding a job. Do not rely entirely on English, or you will miss out on many job offers.
How to market yourself to foreign recruiters?
Learn about your host country's business culture. What is the corporate culture like? What about the CV, dress code, and interview procedures?
Adopt best practices to avoid mistakes, and emphasize the skills that are useful for the job you are applying for. Be modest, observant, respectful, open-minded, and smiling. Dress appropriately for the job you are applying for while respecting the country's practices. In Japan, for example, a dark suit is required in most cases.
Adapting to a new corporate culture
If you have secured an international transfer with an expat package, you may have benefited from cross-cultural courses. The host company is also likely to offer such training, but you can also call upon specialized expatriation coaches. In any case, give yourself enough time to get your bearings right. One rarely performs well during their first few weeks in a new company, even less so when the company is in another country. Language, good practices, hierarchy, and position, among other things, are a lot to assimilate. Ideally, you should have a mentor (your supervisor or a colleague, for example) to assist you during your first months abroad. Don't be scared of making mistakes; you will make some anyways. Learn from them, let yourself be corrected, and stay positive.
Useful links:
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation: Job offers
APEC – Executive Employment Organization: Global Job Openings
