Jordan's Story: From a hectic life in Chicago to a happy life in the Netherlands!

 

Last year Think Global Recruitment assisted Jordan in securing a role in the Netherlands with a Big Four Firm which he says has offered him offer endless opportunities ever since.

We recently got in touch with him to tell us more about his new life.

Jordan began his career in Chicago, USA but now lives and works in the sunny Netherlands as an Audit Senior, living in the multicultural capital Amsterdam and making the daily commute to his job in Zwolle.

 

"I was driven by the opportunity for international exposure, especially with the Big 4 in Europe. I wanted a better work life/balance than I had in Chicago and wanted the challenge of working in a new continent."

At first Jordan felt concerned about how his wife would feel in their new home and how long it would take for both of them to settle in, these fears quickly dissipated by the warm welcome they received when they moved in.

 “Once my wife arrived, everything fell into place. I’m really enjoying life in Europe and I think everyone should make the move. My firm is fantastic, I am busy but feel motivated and happy in my new role. I feel like the move is all I could of hoped for.”

Life in Holland

Jordan is making use of Holland’s central location by taking advantage of the travel opportunities having spent the New Year in Italy and visiting other cities that are near to his home in Amsterdam. With a notably improved work/life balance, this has freed him up to make the most of his surroundings in central Europe, and is enjoying his new sunnier climate.

So what does Jordan think about the people in his new found continent?

 "Europe feels much more culturally diverse than the USA. People are much more tolerant and welcoming here". 

 

 

Working overseas

 

“I have advised all of my colleagues and work mates in Chicago to spend time working abroad as it improves their CVs and they can grow as people. Learning new methodologies and ways of working are just some of the advantages gained from an international move as well as exposure to different cultures and languages."

 

 

 

Our Service

“My consultant really listened to me and my wishes. He understood what I was looking for in my international move and really guided me through the process. He gave me lots of time and information so that I could make an informed decision. Think Global Recruitment gave me honest advice, helpful interview preparation and an impressive list of potential roles. Clearly you have well-connected consultants with lots of industry knowledge.

This move definitely helped to enhance my career, allowing for the opportunity for me demonstrate my adaptability and willingness to challenge myself."

We wish Jordan and his wife all the best with their new life in the Netherlands!


If this story has inspired you and you would like to hear more please get in touch by emailing pmcloughlin@thinkgr.com.

The Top 15 Places You MUST Visit in Europe

Thinking about a move to Europe?  There is so much to see and do. You’ll find everything here, from fabulous culture, history and architecture, to outstanding nightlife and delicious food, and wine. The wonderful thing about living in Europe is that, as the second smallest of the seven continents, accessible transport options are plentiful throughout Europe’s tight geography. Flights between European destinations are increasingly cheap, while the European rail system extends from dense cities into the quiet countryside. Once based in Europe, you become the envy of the world, with literally countless countries and opportunities at your fingertips. Here we’ve listed 15 European locations that you can’t afford to miss during your time off.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is one of Europe's most visited cities -- and rightly so. Much of the city's activity revolves around Las Ramblas, a series of narrow streets and alleys filled with restaurants, bars and a lively pedestrian market. From these tree-lined streets to the city's the beachside nightclubs, from its dozens of spectacular churches and cathedrals to its unique modernist architecture, this city by the sea has something to offer everyone.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is increasingly popular as a ‘must-see’ European destination. Wander around the medieval city walls to enjoy stunning views overlooking the calm blue waters of the Adriatic, while inside these walls lies the city’s beautiful, pedestrian-only Old Town. Its marble streets are filled with elegant Baroque buildings and aristocratic palazzi, while a grid of narrow alleys harbour countless cafes and restaurants where you can sit and watch the world go by. Add to this pristine beaches, chic hotels and adventure sports facilities, and Dubrovnik becomes a destination you just can’t pass by.

Vienna, Austria

As one of the most elegant cities in Europe, it would be hard not to include Vienna in one of our     go-to destinations. Few cities can boast the imperial grandeur of Vienna, once the centre of the powerful Habsburg monarchy. Furthermore, the city’s world famous coffee scene can be enjoyed amidst its palatial, yet welcoming cafés. Austria’s capital is also one the most musical cities in the world, which is partly due to the great number of great composers and musicians who were born or lived and worked here. Visiting Vienna therefore means experiencing the works of Mozart, Haydn, Schubert, Beethoven and many others.

Prague, Czech Republic

A grand city with extraordinary historic and cultural sights, Prague is definitely somewhere not to be missed. The city’s views are breathtaking: although the Czech capital is nicknamed ‘the City of a Hundred Spires’, in fact it is filled with nearly a thousand towers and spires, with a huge diversity of architectural styles. Nightlife in Prague is diverse and plentiful, from trendy clubs, to sophisticated wine bars, to late-night cellar bars. On top of all this, Prague wins hands down over most other European destinations in its affordability.

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

From the history-drenched medieval tenements and narrow lanes of the Old Town, to the sweeping elegance of the Georgian New Town, Edinburgh deserves its reputation as one of the most beautiful and captivating cities in the world. You can spend hours wandering the city’s cobbled streets, marvelling at its character and charm. Not least among Edinburgh’s magnificent buildings is the 900-year-old Edinburgh Castle, which dominates the city’s iconic skyline. The whole city comes together in August each year for the largest arts festival in the world — often described as one big party — which is not to be missed.

Monaco

The tiny yet glitzy principality of Monaco sits along the French Riviera, and is perfect for a luxurious getaway. One of the many great aspects of Monaco is Monte Carlo, which has arguably one of the most beautiful harbours in the world. Perhaps what makes it so spectacular are the dramatic cliffs and sky-blue waters, not to mention the multi-million dollar mega-yachts. While Monaco is full of glitz and glamour, visitors are often surprised by the laid-back vibe found in the Old City (or Monaco Ville), on a high promontory called the Rock. This is where you'll find the Prince's Palace and St. Nicholas Cathedral (where Princess Grace is buried), as well as sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean.

Florence, Italy

For a small, riverside city, Florence looms large on the world's 'must-sees' list as a historic and beautiful destination. The city is considered the cradle of the Renaissance, and its urban fabric has hardly changed since that time. Even for the least arts-savvy visitor, it’s possible to feast on the city’s breathtaking architecture and magnificent, world-class art galleries for hours. The Uffizi Gallery is home to some of the most famous paintings in the world including Botticelli’s masterpiece,The Birth of Venus. Tuscany is no doubt one of Italy’s most revered wine regions, so when in Florence, you are well placed to sample such delights. In fact, the city’s food and wine are so wonderful that the tag 'Fiorentina' has become an international label of quality assurance.

London, United Kingdom

London is an iconic, diverse and exciting city. Rich in history, culture, fine cuisine and shopping, the city has something to offer everyone. Having been the capital of the world’s greatest empire, history really comes to life when you’re walking through the streets of London. Westminster is a town unto itself within the heart of London, and it is home to some of the city's most famous images and architectural structures, including one of the most beautiful government buildings in the world, the Palace of Westminster.  London is also a multicultural paradise, and this is especially so when it comes to food. Check out some of London’s many markets to experience this — and many other delights — first hand.

Sorrento, Italy

Overlooking the Bay of Naples in Southern Italy, Sorrento is a peaceful and pretty town, with colourful buildings, refined restaurants, and every excuse to relax. When the sun shines, both the city and the azure waters are said to genuinely sparkle. Come to Sorrento for some great sea fishing, diving and boat cruises, as well as excellent hiking trails cross the peninsula. Sorrento is also an ideal base for exploring Europe's most compelling archaeological site: the ruins of Pompeii, as well as the famous volcano responsible for the town’s destruction in 79AD, Mt. Vesuvius.

Athens, Greece

Athens is a must-do for culture buffs. Having long been referred to as the cradle of Western civilisation, Athens is home to many pillars of Western history, from the Acropolis to the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Wandering about these ancient landmarks may just cause you to pinch yourself. Amazingly, the city’s cultural and social life takes place amid this historic centre, merging past and present. Since its pre-Olympics revamp, contemporary Athens boasts one of the most happening nightlife scenes in Europe, which now centres on the urban-chic bars and cafés between Syntagma and grungy Monastiraki (at the foot of the Acropolis).

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a city steeped in history, culture and natural beauty. Having been the location of several significant historical events - including the Hungarian Revolution - it’s the kind of place where you are really breathing in history as you wander its streets. Notable sites here include Heroes Square, St Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament Building. Budapest is often referred to as the city of spas, as it offers the opportunity to bathe in an astounding array of thermal Turkish baths. It’s the perfect way to unwind, whilst enjoying centuries old architecture. Round off your time in Budapest in one of the city’s edgy, alternative bars.

Lisbon, Portugal

Full of bleached white limestone buildings and intimate alleyways, Lisbon has a wonderful mix of contemporary culture and traditional architecture. Eating out in Lisbon is a delight - from the revered Portuguese custard tarts, to fresh, locally caught sardines - the diverse dining scene is one of the many great things about Lisbon. Another great thing is that you are not far from the sea: the coastal town of Estoril is in close proximity to the city, so when you want to get away from it all, you can hop on the train and enjoy a calming coastal walk with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

St Petersberg, Russia

Russia’s imperial capital is today a dazzling metropolis whose sheer grandeur never fails to amaze. St Petersburg is replete with long boulevards, narrow canals, and grand public squares, and is an almost unrivalled treasure trove of art and culture. You can spend days in the Hermitage, seeing everything from Egyptian mummies to Picassos, while the Russian Museum, spread over four sumptuous palaces, is perhaps the best collection of Russian art in the world. On top of that, the city offers an exciting nightlife and restaurant scene — certainly enough for several repeat visits.

Berlin, Germany

The capital of Germany is an unmissable destination for those who appreciate history, culture and vibrancy. It really has an exceptional variety of attractions, including top historic sights like the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz, not to mention the famous Berlin Zoo. The city has a relaxed vibe and lots of open spaces, from forests, to lakes, to sprawling parks. In summer, Berlin moves outdoors to the beach bars along the banks of the Spree, pavement cafés and open-air cinemas – perfect for capitalising on the warm summer nights.

Paris, France

The City of Lights; the City of Love; the Capital of Fashion — this elegant city has a plethora of alluring names. Paris draws millions of visitors ever year with its unforgettable ambiance and unparalleled reputation as a mecca of culture, art, fashion, gastronomy, history and architecture. The city’s world-famous museums and monuments are worth a visit in themselves — these include the Arc de Triomphe, the Sacré-Coeur and Notre Dame, and, of course, the Eiffel Tower, to name but a few.

Europe is a fantastic location to live and work - there is always a country nearby to explore!  If you're a Chartered Accountant thinking about an international move, get in touch with Think Global Recruitment and hear more about the opportunities that we have on offer!

This article was contributed by Kirsten McKinlay

A weekend in Lisbon!

Back in July 2014, Think Global Recruitment sponsored an end of exams pool tournament for soon-to-qualify chartered accountants in the Bierkeller (a Bavarian bar) in Liverpool.

Two of our consultants travelled down for the night to network, present and most importantly of all, share a well-deserved drink with Liverpool's top professionals!  Between July and December, we were running a prize draw at all of our events and the lucky winner attended this one!

On Christmas Eve, 2014, our managing director got in touch with Nick to deliver an early Christmas present in the form of exciting news about his free trip to Europe!  As you can imagine, Nick was delighted and in the New Year, Abigail's PA got in touch and they began to organise his trip with his fiancee Kelly.

Nick and Kelly chose Lisbon because it was never really somewhere they had thought of visiting before and they had been to all of the other cities that were on offer.  They planned to head off in April but due to some unforeseen passport complications the trip had to be postponed to later in the year.  Between April and October, Nick and Kelly got married so it worked out the trip was perfect timing for a second honeymoon for the newly-wed couple!

On the 23rd October, we flew them from Liverpool to Lisbon and put them up in the Corintha Hotel where they were lucky enough to be upgraded to the Executive Club with a room on the 21st floor and exclusive breakfast in the Executive Sky Lounge with fantastic views over Lisbon - Nick said it was great to stay here because they never normally book themselves into 5* hotels, never mind get upgraded!

Nick and Kelly spent most of their time wandering the streets of Lisbon and soaking up the culture, stopping in quaint cafes and restaurants for food and drinks.  It was a really chilled weekend and some Nick's highlights included, taking a ride on the tram (which is over 100 years old) and witnessing the wonderful sights of Lisbon.  He and his new wife also enjoyed some drinks in the Sao Jorge Castle which has mesmerising views over the city. 

It was great to catch up with Nick after his trip and we wish Nick and Kelly all the best with their future.  If you are an accountant and want to hear more about the opportunities overseas, current events or jobs for accountants then get in touch: mail@thinkgr.com 

We are also giving away the opportunity for anyone who is either a trainee accountant or recently qualified and based in the UK or Ireland, to enter this years' prize draw for a weekend away for two in Europe!  All you have to do is send an email to Emma: emaloy@thinkgr.com with the following information:

You Name, Email, Telephone Number, Job Title, Current Firm, Year of Qualifying Exam.

What is a move, to live and work in Vienna like?

Think Global Recruitment does Videos!

We don't know if you've heard but we are very excited to be launching a brand new website in the summer!  While the designers are working hard on pulling ideas together and doing all of the technical stuff, we have opened our first video competition!  Video is the next big thing and we'd love to share your overseas stories through this medium on our new site.  By doing this short video, you will be inspiring other accountants to improve their lives by making a move too!  So if you want to scream and shout about what a fantastic time that you've had, living and working overseas, please do enter our competition (did we mention that you'll also be in with a chance of winning £1,000?)!

Maybe you're a bit shy or don't know what to say?  We've listed questions and guidelines below and asked one of our very own international experts to record a video about his time overseas.  Here's Daniel, telling us about his time in Vienna:

How do I enter? 

Simple, just set aside ten minutes to answer the following questions (in 3 minutes or less please - we know that there is so much to say!):

1. Where did you move to and from, and what made you make this international move?
2. What are the best things about your new location?
3. How has the move assisted your career?

Then what?

• We will be using the best videos to inspire other accountants who are thinking of making an overseas move
• Once you have recorded your video (can be done on a webcam, tablet, smartphone) use Dropbox to send the compressed video to emaloy@thinkgr.com and we will send a receipt once we have received it!
• The winning video will be judged on how innovative, inspiring and informative it is

We can't wait to see your videos!

If you have any questions, feel free to email, Emma: emaloy@thinkgr.com 

*By entering this competition you are consenting to the use of your video on our soon to launch website and social media.  Normal competition rules apply.

Think Global Recruitment - Improving Lives Annual Survey

"International Experience makes me a Citizen of the World"

Each year, Think Global Recruitment conducts primary research in the form of an overseas survey to analyse the experiences of each accountant that they assist in their overseas move.  This year, over 100 participants took part in the survey and the aim of this report is to present; what is motivating international moves, the best elements of international moves and further interesting comments that participants have shared.

The survey was completed anonymously but participants were asked to state where they moved from and where they moved to.  Countries included; Africa, Americas, Asia, Australia, Bermuda, Canada, Caribbean, Europe, Middle East, New Zealand, the UK and Channel Islands.

Why move overseas?

When asked, "what is the main factor that prompted your desire to work overseas", the vast majority of participants claimed that work experience, followed closely by lifestyle was their biggest reason for the move.

Other reasons that were given included: moving to somewhere more family friendly, experience another culture, close proximity to other countries, learn a new language and improved weather.

Interestingly, only 12.93% were motivated to make the move because of money.

"Besides the work experience, visit beautiful places and increase culture"

The response to the question, "what was the best thing about the move?" indicated that lifestyle (36.54%) and work experience (25.96%) were the two most highly rated aspects of working and living overseas.  A significant drop to 14.42% brings money in as the third most populous answer. Other answers included; "a mix of lifestyle, money, culture and change" and "a better living level".

Living and working overseas gives enhanced access to travel and the opportunity to visit countries that might normally be difficult or out of reach.  One participant said, in reference to the positive aspects of their time overseas, "ability to travel to several European countries'.  Using Europe as an example, flights are reasonably priced and most countries can be visited with a short journey.  For someone who has lived in the USA all of their life, they may not get the opportunity to explore Europe because cost and travel time can make it quite difficult.

"Quicker progression overseas means that when you return, it is a higher level than you would have achieved had you stayed in your original location"

An extraordinary 85.29% of participants agreed that working overseas helps with long-term career development.  Only 1.96% of participants claimed that working overseas may not help long-term career development.

An almost even amount of participants agreed on each of the three following statements:

• International experience is increasingly sought after in management positions (32.43%)
• International experience shows that I am adaptable to change (30.81%)
• International experience makes you a more rounded person (31.89%)

When the participants were asked if they would consider taking another role in their (new) location 75.73% said yes, 4.85% said no, 13.59% said they were unsure and finally 5.83% said other answers such as, "I would love to work in a different location to gain more working experience and experience another culture" and "I am planning to make this my permanent home.".

Following on from these statistics, the participants were asked if they believe that they made the right decision to move to their new location when they did.  A phenomenal result of 87.25% of participants claimed that they did make the right decision to move.  Only, 0.98% said that they did not, 6.86% said they were unsure and 4.9% gave other answers such as; "Could have moved here many years sooner".

Overall, it is clear that the biggest motivating factors for moving overseas are work experience and lifestyle.  This strongly reflects Think Global Recruitment's vision of Improving Lives.  Living and working overseas not only enhances world, cultural and personal experience but it is hugely recognised as a desirable feature when going through a recruitment process.  Working overseas gives massive exposure to different working environments and proves to employers that their candidates are independent and willing to go the extra mile.  It is fantastic to be able to report that so many people believe that they made the right decision in moving overseas.

Further Information:

The participants were asked if there was anything else they would like to add.  Here are just a few of the comments that were made:

"Just do it!"

"If you are given the opportunity to relocate, take it. It is rewarding and character building."

"It's always a plus to gain international experience"

"Move forward always"

"The decision to move was to gain the work experience, very happy that I did"

"Move to Australia has been very positive for the following reasons:

• Financially much better off
• Necessity to work overtime is an irregular occurrence more often than not
• If you have a strong educational background, chances are your job prospects should be superior 
• Quality of life is much better, great weather, cost of living much lower "

"It's really great to live and work here in the UK because of the working lifestyle, hospitable people and healthy environment to live in. I must say I am delighted to have worked with Think Global Recruitment during the employment process."

"Relocation definitely helped my career progression. The international experience gained is invaluable. In addition, I was able to identify best practice and applied it on my engagements subsequently. On a personal level, the work-life balance and the financial part was way above my expectations."

"It has been a great learning experience for many aspects, well recommended."

"The greatest part about working in a new place is seeing how others work, approach problems and develop solutions."

"The world is so big that you find opportunities almost everywhere, if you are really keen to make it. The important this is that you must be ready to design your life and then you can start to look after the new location. So basically, the first question is 'What do I want?', then the second one is: 'Where can I find it?' That's it."

"Cultural diversity is really a gain / enrichment in personal development."

"Think Global Recruitment are the best people in helping professionals relocate and start new careers internationally"

"It's great to have exposure to other cultures and diversity is an awesome experience" 

"It is an incredible experience. The time zones and distance to travel home were one of the downsides. But travel opportunities were in abundance, it was awesome making friends from across the globe and I certainly expanded my work experience and skills."  

Making an International Move - What our Team Think

Are you considering an overseas move but a little uncertain? Do you want to make a move but you’re not sure where to go?

To celebrate the return of our Accountancy Worldwide Forum in South Africa, October 2014, I have started digging through our files and tracing down candidates that we have assisted in their international move to find out their thoughts on the process, the locations and what they are up to now.

While I’m doing this, I thought it would be interesting to look at the people that sit next to me every day – what are their thoughts on moving overseas? Where have they lived? What makes them interesting? And finally, what advice would they give to someone who is considering an international move?

From Austria to India, New York to Bermuda, Thailand to Australia, Germany to South Africa, our team have all lived overseas and that’s what makes us experts! Before I begin, I will give you a brief overview of the team members that I have spoken to, where they went and how long for.

Abigail Stevens, Managing Director, Sydney

While backpacking through Australia, Abigail fell in love with Sydney so she got sponsorship and decided to live and work there for three years. 

Alistair Mills, Recruitment Manager, Melbourne

Alistair was made redundant during the recession and wanted to try something new. He had a friend who traveled to Australia and loved it so it seemed like a good place to go. Alistair worked in Melbourne for 1 year.

Calum Smith, Recruitment Consultant, New York

Calum had always wanted to work in New York and got the opportunity straight after university, he had no plans at the time and thought that there was no better time than then to experience the city! Calum lived in New York for 4 months.

Daniel Scott, Recruitment Consultant, Austria & Spain

Daniel lived in Austria and Spain for 7 months each. Though it was compulsory for his university course, he fell in love with both and stayed a little bit longer. He really didn't want to return home after his time was up!

Kevin Dillon, Recruitment Consultant, Thailand & South Carolina

Kevin lived in South Carolina for 6 months due to his university course, he had always wanted to experience life in the USA and enjoyed living and working on the beach while he was there! After finishing university he said that he always wanted to travel and so he moved to Thailand to teach English and stayed there for 1 year before returning to the UK to begin his career with Think Global Recruitment.

Lara Caswell, Administrator and PA to Directors, Mozambique & South Africa

Lara decided that she was fed up of living in the UK, she wanted to encounter something new and begin an adventure. So, she moved to southern Africa where she ended up living and working in various locations for seven years!

Michael Black, Recruitment Consultant, Colorado

Michael lived in Colorado for 6 months during the skiing season, his cousin lived in Denver and so he had a connection there. He had always wanted to work and live abroad so this was his opportunity.

Roger Edwardson, Recruitment Consultant, Belgium & Austria

Roger lived in both Belgium and Austria for six months each as part of his university course. Because he was studying languages, he was really keen to get involved with this aspect of his degree, it was a chance to live in his target area and immerse himself in a different culture. 

Emma Maloy, Marketing Assistant, Germany

I lived in Germany for nearly five years in two different locations. The reason I moved was due to family commitments. I feel very lucky that I had the opportunity to experience a similar, yet very different, way of life and given the chance to go back - I would take it in a heartbeat! 

The general consensus when I asked why everyone moved over seas came down to:

‘I wanted to try something new’

And why shouldn't you? One of our newest recruiters, Kevin Dillon, commented on his time in Thailand stating,

‘I wanted to travel before starting my career and especially somewhere that I didn't speak the language, I wanted to challenge myself.’

Referring back to my last blog, I stated the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and this is exactly what he did. I guess this is what we all did...

Of course if you’re moving away from home, no matter how long your stay, you will always have concerns niggling at the back of your mind. I know that my biggest concern when I moved to Germany was the fact that I was leaving all of my friends behind, not knowing if I would get the chance to see them again and knowing that I would have to make new friends and adapt to a new, very strange environment. It was truly terrifying but incredibly exciting. Here’s what some of our team members had to say about their concerns:

Alistair Mills, Melbourne –‘I went on my own so I was nervous about meeting new people and settling in. I arrived in Melbourne with just a back pack so it was a little overwhelming however I had a new place to live and a group of friends in no time. It forces you out of your comfort zone and really gets the best out of you. It’s a big decision and of course it’s a little daunting but ultimately really rewarding.’

Abigail Stevens, Sydney –‘Before going I knew nothing about Australia at all, except for what I learnt from Home and Away! I didn't realise there would be big modern cities and it would be a great place to take my career forward. I therefore only had Australia on my itinerary for a three month stop over – I ended up staying three years!’

Michael Black, Colorado –‘I was worried about the altitude (9,000 feet) and being away from the folks, but I fell in with a great group of guys and settled in very quickly.'

Calum Smith, New York –‘No concerns whatsoever – just a lot of excitement at the thought of it!’

We all have our concerns when making such a dramatic, life changing decision, we are only human after all (except maybe Calum – who didn't seem to be nervous at all). At Think Global Recruitment we go out of our way to help anyone who is worried or concerned about their move, we want them to feel safe in the fact that they are making one of the best decisions they will ever make.

Moving on to my next question for the group, did their move meet their expectations? Every single person said no. It exceeded them. It’s hard to envision what it will be like when you are literally stepping into the unknown, you know it’s going to be scary, you know it’s going to be exciting and you know that if it all goes wrong – you can come home but when it comes down to the nitty gritty, you have no idea. 

When I asked the team what disappointed them about their move, Kevin mentioned that the size of beer cans in America are considerably smaller than the UK and Alistair noted that Australian TV is rubbish. Both huge deciding factors when moving overseas! On a serious note, nothing was really disappointing. It's such a fantastic experience that the highs most definitely exceed the lows.

So what advice would our experts offer to those considering a move…

Alistair Mills, Melbourne -‘Go for it! It’s an amazing experience and something that you will look back on with great memories for years to come! From a practical sense, make sure you research the location and find a role that you will be able to do comfortably! Use a recruiter to make sure you have some help with each stage of the way and to secure you the best deal!’

Abigail Stevens, Sydney -‘Do it! It will give you amazing life experiences and friends for life. You will become a more rounded individual with increased knowledge and confidence.’

prolonged her visit) –

Calum Smith, New York – ‘Embrace it – go with a completely open mind and just take every experience in, good or bad! I would also recommend immersing yourself in the local culture wherever you go!’

Daniel Scott, Austria & Spain – ‘My one piece of advice is if you get the opportunity to travel and experience a new culture or new environment, DO IT!’

Kevin Dillon, Thailand & South Carolina – 'Buy the ticket and take the ride! Go head first into each and every situation and do things out with your comfort zone on a regular basis. Try and integrate into the local community and culture as much as you can, you’re not going to like everything but at least you can say that you tried. If there’s anything that you couldn't or wouldn't do at home that you've wanted to do then this is your opportunity!’

Lara Caswell, Mozambique & South Africa - ‘Throw yourself into it wholeheartedly, to this date it is the most exciting, rewarding thing I have ever done!’

Michael Black, Colorado – ‘Do it! It’s a great thing to do, build your confidence and experience; I wish I had made the move sooner as I did so much growing up when I was there.’

Roger Edwardson, Austria & Belgium – ‘Make sure you do research on the location and try and visit there beforehand to get a taste of the culture. Also make sure you talk to locals and don’t be afraid to ask for help.’

Everyone was so enthusiastic about living overseas that when I asked if they could open a Think Global Recruitment office in another country, would they? Everyone said yes.

Obviously our moves have given us the experience needed to be able to advise others on living overseas but how else has it enhanced our careers? I believe that it gives you edge, makes you stand out from the crowd, people are instantly interested in you because you have done something different.

Daniel Scott, Austria & Spain - 'You learn a lot about yourself and also a lot about how to handle situations and interact with people on a different level to what you would at home'

Roger Edwardson, Belgium & Austria - 'My time overseas improved my language skills and gave me a great sense of independence'.

Abigail Stevens, Sydney - 'I know about living and working overseas first hand and now help others to Improve their Lives by doing the same. I believe I gained the confidence to run my own business through the overseas move. I am used to being out with my comfort zone and meeting new people and this really helped.'

I must admit, when I initially typed the questions into an email, I expected that everyone would have vastly different answers, how could they be the same when we all traveled to opposite ends of the globe? We all returned home, not one of us wanted to come back and every single person has had the best time that they could have imagined. I would personally advise every single person to take the plunge and live in another country, experience the culture, the beauty and the excitement. Whether it’s for three months or three years, you will not regret it.

So, there’s a little bit more about our team, if you have been placed by us (or would like to be) and would love to share your story, get in touch!

By Emma Maloy, Marketing Assistant

The Rain in Spain

...apparently doesnt always stay on the plain. 

Headed across to Madrid for a long weekend late Thursday night, curtesy of my favourite airline. EasyJet.   They might be a cheap airline.  However, EJ are the friendliest, most fun and customer orientated airline I have flown on in a long time.  They are also the most ontime airline.  Believe me I get on an airplan more often then a bus..... or potentially even in a car.  Ok Emirates are not far behind.  However, I do business with them, so hope for an above average service.

Back to Madrid.  Landed late Thursday and instict said 'go try the nightlife'.  Head said bed... so I did.

Woke up Friday feeling good and enrgised by amazing sunshine and warmth.   Something I hadnt seen in Edinburgh since the strangely warm March we had.

After breakfast sitting outside in the sun, watching business people grab a bite before their hectic Friday I secided to make the most of my day off and headed into the older part of town. 

I do really enjoy utilising the metro in cities throughout the world.  Knowing they were modelled on our, now ageing, London Underground brings some sense of pride.  I love it that the UK has been pioneers for so many things, despite our wee landmass. 

The metro too me to Sol station and a short wonder around to an old square with great buildings, surrounded by resteraunts with outside tables and of course lots of tourists.  I joines the tourists for a lovely long lunch in the sun. 

After a few hours of eating and sipping nice wine I decided to have more of a wonder.  I walked through winding streets of great old architecture.  Onto larger streets with a tredy modern shopping feel.  Then into a great narrow street crammed with botique type individual shops.  It was fun looking in each and wondering at the wide range of price tags, literally from one end of the spectrum to the next.

After a long afternoon of window shopping and sun, I thought time to head back to my hotel and relax, then get ready for the evening ahead. 
I had booked a hotel in the business district.  Lovely and modern with fun gadgets, sunken bath, funky and clean.   I decided, seeing as the room was so nice, to relax for an hour or two... and so I did....

Suddenly, before I knew it, it was 10pm.   Probably the usual time for adults to go out in Madrid.   However, for some reason I was so very tiered.  Maybe a day off and 'slowing down' confused my system.  Whatever the reason, I decided to stay in the hotel, eat in the bar and get a relatively early night.  After all, I did have a training run set for the next day.  So, that is what I did.  Eat average food in a hotel bar and drink an exceptionally large G@T before going to bed not long past midnight....

Waking with even more energy, I knew I could do a decent training run for the Edinburgh half marathon the following weekend.  On looking at the metro map, I identified that I could travel, without changing lines, to a huge park Casa De Campo.   The internet told me I could easily get a decent 10k run without hills, so off I went.

Casa de Campo is a lovely park.  Everyone was out to burn off the Friday night's excesses before starting again as one does on a Saturday night.  There was mountaim bikers.. 

runners, walkers, tennis, volley ball, canoeing.. you name it. Great to see so many people exercising. Well time has moved on and I am now home, enjoying and even warmer weekend in Edinburgh. I had managed a 10 mile run on the Saturday and a 5 mile run on the Sunday. I visited more of the old parts of the city. Some of the vibrant shopping streets and all in all had a great weekend in Madrid. However, I still feel I need to go back sometime to do the city justice... watch this space. Have you been to Madrid? Do you have recommendations for things to do there or in other European cities? Abigail, happiest in the sun, Not the rain

When in Rome...

I am off to one of my favourite European cities today.. Rome. What a lovely city. The buildings, the history, the people, the food, the drink... I can not think of anywhere better to spend the weekend. There is also the weather. As its been getting colder and colder here in the UK, going into minus figures in Scotland, I am looking forward to 18 degrees in lovely Rome.

As you may tell from lack of blog updates, its been a busy few weeks leading up to this break. The international accountancy job market has gone mad. Heaps of new vacancies coming through from all corners of the world. Australia, New Zealand, Far East, Middle East, Bermuda, Caribbean, Europe... you name it we have roles there! Now all we need is to find qualified accountants with the right experience to fit each role.

Post recession companies are still being very choosey regarding the experience, qualifications and personalities they are recruiting. There is certainly competition for the Hot Roles. However, I am told by the accountants we work with that we give the very best interview preparation they have ever received, thus giving them an edge over other applicants. The statistics seem to back this up, showing our applicants are more likely to secure a role than any other. We truly believe time invested in this area pays off. After all, all we want to do is Improve Lives....

Here's a question... How long do you spend preparing for
an interview?