So a few weeks ago, I posted this.
Look, I know working with me is about as tempting as spending an evening in the company of the Queen Fan Club, but it’s Wieden … and NIKE … and working in the most dynamic and influential nation on the planet … surely that overcomes having to see my ugly mug every day.
Well, apparently it doesn’t, for some.
Christ, how ugly must I be?
Is it the face or the fact I wear Birkenstocks?
In all seriousness, what has surprised me is how many people said they weren’t interested the moment they found out the role was based in China.
Don’t get me wrong, I know China has ‘issues’ – especially if you have a young family – and I know on face value it’s a very daunting place … but I’m amazed how many people didn’t even want to discuss or explore the possibility of the role once they knew where it was based, even though most admitted they’d never even visited here.
Amazing.
Of course not everyone had that attitude and we’re talking to a whole bunch of interesting people, but I’m surprised that the folk most up for it weren’t planners by trade but by associated experience.
Yes, that’s right, the people who were quickest to turn down the opportunity [before they’d even been offered the opportunity] were the very folk who proudly go on and on and on about how curious and adventurous they are.
I know I shouldn’t judge … I know there are a whole heap of factors that can stop someone from exploring opportunities beyond their own shores … I know moving countries is always a big thing, but to be honest, I’m surprised how many self proclaimed ‘curious folk’ were ready to shut down their interest just because of location.
Anyway, this is just to say that working overseas is an amazing and exciting experience and even though it can be daunting, I encourage you to not let your fears create immediate barriers. By all means don’t do it if you don’t want to, but at least get all the information before you decide and if you’re still unsure what you should do, follow the advice of Richard Branson:
