Working as an expat in an Asian country or state is going to be a huge culture shock, but with the right expectations and know-how, you can easily make the most of it.
With this useful guide, you can turn that culture shock into the most exciting, exhilarating period of your entire life. There is so much to learn and love about every country, but for expats, an international destination like Hong Kong is going to suit you the best. Learn how to settle in and thrive in Hong Kong, whether you travel there for work or are stationed there for a short period by your company.
With this guide, you’ll know what to expect and how to get the most out of your experience:
1. Connect with Your Coworkers
Chances are the company you will be working for will have a 50/50 split of expats vs. locals, which means that you have an excellent opportunity to meet and get to know people. Don’t be afraid to befriend native Hongkongers; they are more international than most and will be of vital assistance when you want to learn how to live like a local and find the best hotspots in Hong Kong.
2. Become Familiar with the Working Culture
Try to be more familiar with the working culture, which is characterized as highly professional, calm, cool, and hard-working. This way, you can get in line with where your coworkers are, and also progress in your own career during your stint in the city.
3. Understand the Disability Discrimination Ordinance
In the United States, it is illegal to discriminate on a variety of factors, which is why genetic testing is not legally allowed in the United States by insurance companies. In Hong Kong, however, it is self-regulated. Yes, there are protections against discrimination based on a person’s health, but the go-to understanding is that insurance companies must exercise care if they choose to use genetic testing. It is not limited by law or illegal. That is why expats should expect to protect themselves in other ways. If you have no choice regarding who your insurance provider is, or if your employer is insisting on genetic tests (or drug tests), then investing in The Urinator can keep your genetic data private.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Live Off-Island
Yes, living on the island is where you need to be in order to be a stone’s throw away from all the hip bars, shops, restaurants and other essentials that the city offers. But, if you want to feel more at home, with a larger apartment that you can comfortably live in, then relocating off the island is the way to go.
5. Make a Point to Explore the Green Areas
It has become widely accepted that spending more time in nature is key for your mental and emotional health. Though Hong Kong has a reputation for being a concrete jungle, it still has a huge amount of green space to explore. If you ever get homesick, take some time to enjoy one of the parks in Hong Kong.
6. Use Public Transportation
Hong Kong’s public transportation is cheap, efficient and clean, and is hands down the easiest way to get around the city.
Hong Kong can be, and is, a great place to live, especially if you set your expectations correctly from the start. Do well, and you can advance your career and make many incredible memories along the way.