Exploring a whole new sphere — The value of international work experience
By Elisabeth Borski
Space Dog Eli speaking:
Picture this: the vibrant, captivating Mexico City, North America's bustling heart! In my initial month there, I encountered minor tremors, explored the ancient Aztec canals, and stood witness to a live volcano. The thrill of these experiences was unlike anything I had known before—a craving of something different, something new. Reflecting on my time abroad, my mind wandered to the other Space Dogs at Laika, many of whom, like myself, embarked on international work experiences. So today I want to dive deep into the benefits and importance of international work experiences and interview a couple of our international space dogs.
Personal growth in an unknown galaxy
We believe that every day spent venturing beyond one's comfort zone is a journey of decision-making, problem-solving, and adaptation to previously uncharted environments. Once you embark on a new adventure, you will inevitably change. Your horizons widen as you encounter people, environments and culture you have never had the chance before. Whether you want it or not, living and working in foreign countries, present invaluable opportunities to unearth both strengths and weaknesses that may have remained undiscovered until this point. Our advice, keep a journal! This will give you the opportunity to rewind to old thoughts, and you get the chance to actually see you changing over time (it is truly mind-blowing).
Let’s start by seeing what improved the most for Belgian space dog Isabelle and what she views as crucial for it.
She explains, “Having an international work environment helps me to improve my language skills, moreover networking skills. You’ll get in touch with people from different countries who may have other routines, habits or another culture as you. It’s important to always show respect for people.”
Embracing New Cultures
While we are talking about respect, let's get to talking about the cultural aspect of an international work experience. We believe, that living in a new country (even temporarily) exposes you to diverse cultures, fostering cultural sensitivity and ease in interacting with people from various backgrounds. How—you may ask? Well, long story short, you will have to adapt yourself. In doing so, you begin to learn and understand different views or beliefs among cultures. Adapting to a new culture can also improve language skills, from basic communication to fluency, providing a valuable asset in future job applications all around the world. In our globalized world, companies value the ability to work across cultures and many even expect it in their job postings (just take a look at various LinkedIn job offers). The best way to prove your ability to adapt to different cultures, is of course through actual experiences like volunteering, studying and working abroad. It is also a good asset, if you have coworkers from different countries (such as at Laika).
How did our Dutch Space Dog, Chiara, try to improve her cross-cultural communication skills?
She states, “My personal strategy involved a period of observation before allowing emotions to influence my perceptions and draw premature conclusions. This approach provided me with deeper insights and understanding of cultural nuances, encompassing various norms and standards that differed from those in the Netherlands.”
Work, work, work
During your international work experience, you may grow professional qualities such as independence, critical thinking and adaptability to diverse situations. This diverse skill set and global network contribute significantly to career growth and open up new job opportunities. According to a survey, conducted by the British Council, 68% of job seekers, indicated that their international experience played a significant role in securing employment. Working with diverse teams encourages the development of strong communication skills and boosts confidence in navigating different working styles. Here at Laika, we are confronted with that every day as every space dog has a different background, whether it's countrywise or studywise.
How has international work experience contributed to professional development for Venezuelan Space Dog, Andrea?
She says, “It has offered me a way to constantly exercise my relating with people that have differences from me. Working, and also studying in my case, immersed in a foreign culture, and meeting people from various others, has improved my sensibility, empathy, and has accustomed me to understand that people are sponges of their surroundings. Our truths and point of views, however different they can be, are usually not mutually exclusive.”
Last words
Lastly, I want to thank Laika and our space captain, Ela, for the opportunity to broaden my horizons while knowing I always had a spaceship to return to after my adventure abroad. The memories and relations I've been able to make in Mexico were a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I could not be more grateful for the experience. It has been an incredible journey for me. Surely everyone, who has been able to experience an adventure like this, will be able to relate.