Tips on working abroad & Culture Adjustment and Exploration

By Joe ChiuGeneral Manager (Hong Kong & Macau),

EF Education First

My background• Grew up in Shatin; native Hong Kong• Immigrated to the US at age 14• Graduated in Yale University, majoring in history• Management consultant at McKinsey & Company• Completed MBA in Harvard University• General Manager at EF Education First

• Will I be able to perform well in a work setting?• Is my English going to be enough for an overseas

internship?• How do I make sure I pick the right career path?• How do I balance between passion and reality?

You are probably thinking…

• Be humble– Accept any tasks as learning opportunities, no

matter how mundane– Seek feedbacks and adapt

• Go beyond your job descriptions• Be open-minded – broaden your options• Build networks• Pay attention to what you enjoy– What functions of work?– What kinds of people do you enjoy working with?

This is one of your first job

Zurich

Boston

Russia

• The working environment depends on culture of the company and of the country you work in – difficult to generalize

• Company culture is the key driver, e.g.– Professional– Entrepreneurial– Process driven

Working overseas/ MNCs

• Speak up!– English proficiency– Communication skills – Presence/confidence

• Respect diversity• Build relationships– International exposure– Socialize

Key drivers of success for working overseas or at MNCs

Q & A