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18 Dec

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Key Differences Between Working Abroad and at Home

Working abroad is a dream for many people. It offers unique experiences that not everyone can have and provides a different atmosphere from working in your home country. There are significant differences between working abroad and working domestically, including salary, workplace culture, and the overall environment. Here are some of the most fundamental differences based on the experience of someone who worked in Japan for nearly two years:

1. Unique and Distinct Culture

As many people know, Japan's culture is unique and very different from Indonesia's. One of their core values is Bushido, a principle of hard work and discipline passed down through generations. This tireless spirit has fostered Japan’s culture of continuous learning. Such admirable habits are worth emulating by other nations.

2. Perfectionism in the Workplace

Many companies in Japan exhibit a high level of perfectionism. They demand exceptional quality, even if it means working late into the night or postponing deadlines to achieve perfection. For instance, game companies meticulously ensure the accuracy of kanji, hiragana, or katakana to help children read and understand easily. This commitment to excellence is something that major companies worldwide could learn from.

3. Higher Salaries

One of the main motivations for working abroad is the potential for a higher salary. Fresh graduates often receive significantly higher pay than they would in Jakarta, for instance. On average, workers can save 50–65% of their salary for savings or to send back to their families. However, promotions and salary increases are challenging, as factors like loyalty and tenure play a significant role. Workers typically receive salary adjustments every six months, provided their performance is satisfactory and shows improvement.

4. Language as a Key to Communication

Language is an essential factor when working in any country. In Japan, for example, the primary language used in the workplace and daily communication is Japanese, not English. This contrasts with Indonesia, where many workers can communicate in English without being fluent in Indonesian. To work effectively abroad, it's crucial to learn the local language of the country you’re planning to work in.

These are some of the fundamental differences between working abroad and working domestically that you need to be aware of. Hopefully, this information is helpful and provides valuable insights for your career journey.

Tags Work