Expats getting younger

Younger Workers

The average age of working expatriates is getting younger and younger, according to an international human resources management organisation.

A number of factors are believed to be at the heart of these ‘early bird expats’, including economic stability and a greater awareness of foreign opportunities.

Executive vice president at human resources managers ORC Worldwide, Siobhan Cummins, said: “Working in a different country looks good on a young person’s CV, but it’s also beneficial for the company. Younger people have less ties to home such as family or property, and can be much more flexible, as well as providing a cheap labour option. And in a time when people tend to be less loyal to a company, offering opportunities abroad can increase the likelihood of staff wanting to stay with a company”.

The economic downturn has been attributed as a reason for younger expats, as young people may be finding it more difficult to get jobs here in England than in previous years. Overseas placements whilst studying at university are a factor as people who have studied abroad are also more likely to work abroad at some point in their careers.

Jonathan Black, of Oxford University’s careers service, said: “International development as a career is growing very popular, and we see a lot of students doing internships abroad during their study, which may fuel their interest”.