Breeds of Expats

The term “Professional Expats” comes up from time to time.  There are definately different types of expatriates that transplant themselves all over the world.  Let me start with explaining the experimental expat.

Here in Asia there is definitely the “Experimental Expat” – they come, they look, they leave.  What I mean by that is that their company plans to send them for 2 years.  It may be a trial assignment, something new for all parties.  The company is testing out the water to see if their company idea will fly here in Asia.  Hong Kong is a good starting point.  I guess that if you can make it here you can make it anywhere is their company’s attitude. Hong Kong is very central when it comes to air travel and banking.  Experimental Expats may last 2 years but usually less than 12 months.  Experimental types usual moan a lot one way or the other and make comparisons about their temporary assigment vs their ‘home’ base.  These guys usually don’t last and don’t do it again.  Thank goodness because they can be a drag and they certainly are not the companies best advertisement.