3 reasons Vietnam can rocket-launch your business career

It sure is comfortable to graduate from high school, go to a university near-by and then look for a starting position in one of the local companies, never having to leave your hometown.  The security of staying close to your parents and friends and having familiar surroundings makes it comfortable.  And for many it is the way to go.  But if you pick a business career, especially if you want to be a leader and work for international companies, you will have to take some risks.  In the end, no risk - no reward!

While a local job may give you the security you are looking for, the chances that you land a GREAT job right by your house - is highly unlikely.  Reason: competition.  Take your classmates, for example, the ones that come from overseas: they speak more than one language and have some natural advantages of having more global exposure and ability to adapt to new cultures (in most cases).

May I suggest a trip.  I mean taking a “gap” year and turning it into an opportunity of a lifetime....

Reason 1: supply and demand

You all learn about supply and demand in the markets and why short supply and high demand makes a commodity valuable.  The situation is no different if you think of yourself as a commodity or product.  If you live in a city where the economy is growing at 2% annually and unemployment rate at 7%, would you have a better chance in a city where unemployment is negative and annual growth rate is 7%?  Furthermore, if this “magic” city also needs western educated workers that speak perfect English and know a thing or two about marketing, entrepreneurship and international trade?

I am not saying that starting as a bank teller cannot get you places: many have worked their way up to the C suite that way.  But what I am saying is that you can shortcut many years and get there much much faster.  You have to match you (short supply commodity) with a high demand market.  Where??  Emerging markets like Vietnam, for example.

Reason 2: risk-reward 

When you are investing, typically higher exposure to risk can give you potential to higher rewards.  Never guaranteed, but at your stage in life what have you got to lose?  Having a trip of a lifetime and a potential to kick off a life changing career: does any of this sound bad?  And the worst that could happen is you have to head back home with incredible stories to tell and a starter-pack of international and cultural exposure.  Maybe even some basic language skills to boost your English only showcase.

I personally know many that took the plunge and ended up with really satisfying and interesting jobs in Asia.  Anything from cool job titles, to fun and extraordinary assignments is possible in emerging markets.  Companies are battling for the right talent and personalities, and if you have a bit of both, the chances are the risk you will take will pay high dividends, possibly for the rest of your life.

Reason 3: networking opportunities 

Unlike in our western countries, networking in Asia is a second to none.  The first time I attended a CEO conference (a few months after landing in Vietnam) I made the mistake of bringing 10 or so business cards to the event, a number that would have lasted me months in Canada.  I ran out of those 10 minutes into the event and ended up with some 50 before the official part of the event even started.  But that was not the most impressive part.  I thought the card game was just a formal game they played.... boy was I wrong!  In addition to making some long-term acquaintances, the next day I received countless introductory emails, referring to our meeting the night prior.  What I found most impressive was that many of these new contacts referred to our business in detail and had a customized way to help us achieve our objectives.  All in less than 24 hours!  From company events, to restaurants, to training or products: all aspiring to make relationships and do business together.

Now imagine being from a western world and being greeted by such interest?!  And people do look genuinely interested as they know that relationships mean business.

Furthermore, in countries like Vietnam, the quality of business events is significantly higher than those I have attended in Canada and Europe.  Representing a company can easily get you invited to events organized by various associations, government entities, embassies and NGOs.  Even if you don’t own a business, you can go along as a guest for a very modest fee ($12-30) which includes all-you-can-take networking, presentations, drinks and dinner, typically at a 5 star venue.  Not a bad way to start your networking and contacts until you find an interesting offer.  And find you will, as I myself hired several foreigners that knew how to play the networking and follow-up game.  A few ended up with great titles, benefits and have moved onto fulfilling careers in Asia and beyond.

A great career needs a great start.  If you are willing to put yourself out there and take a little risk and have some fun along the way, you should consider taking the trip.  Emerging markets present unique opportunities and if you are willing to align yourself (commodity) with the market (demand) in a way that creates a good synergy, you may just be able to kickstart your international business career and  fast track to your long term vision.  And if I can be of any help, reach out and tell me your story.  I am sure we can work together to realize your potential.

I am a transformation and continuous improvement executive and relentless believer in potential.  That potential in many cases just needs to be rediscovered.  I work to reinvent old methods into new opportunities and re-enable potential to shine.  It’s in there.  Let’s go get it. www.thereinventionist.com