New research from AXA – Global Healthcare, has revealed that over half (51 per cent) of male expats feel that their time abroad has accelerated their career development, as opposed to 39 per cent of women.
The AXA World of Work Report also showed that 43 per cent of men felt their international assignments have enabled them to become regional experts and increased their professional value to future and current employers, in contrast to just 36 per cent of women.
However, the research also revealed that women are more likely to continue living abroad after completing their assignment.
Jerome Itty, a French expat who has lived in Hong Kong with his family for a year, commented: “I joined a global company that would allow me to work overseas and Hong Kong was the perfect option. It offered strong career opportunities but was also a welcoming environment for my family. We may consider living in another country; I would like to experience London, the United States or perhaps another part of Asia. However, it all depends on whether the right job opportunity arises.”
While men are focused on their career prospects, the data suggests that women taking international assignments are motivated by the possibility of pursuing adventure, as well as new working opportunities, in their lives abroad.