Cranfield School of Management and Expatica survey shows that independent work-related assignments are more useful that company-directed assignments abroad

Professionals who move abroad independently out of a sense of adventure and are willing take a career risk may gain more for their personal development in the long run than those sent on international assignments by their companies, research has found.

A study of 552 people by Cranfield School of Management and Expatica, the internet portal for expatriates, found nearly two-thirds had initiated their foreign work experience themselves, without company backing.

For those individuals willing to take a leap of faith as “free agents”, the quest for adventure was a significantly influential driver, combined with a desire for work-life balance. In contrast, “classic expats” going on international assignments backed by their employers were more likely to be motivated by financial incentives and career advancement.

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Although both groups agreed working abroad was likely to enhance their future career prospects, free agents reported achieving much greater clarity of work goals – despite the fact they were much more likely to take a less challenging job in their new country than back home.

Noeleen Doherty, research fellow at Cranfield School of Management, said: “Individuals who embark on the heroic journey of expatriation take a risk, but the rewards are a positive life and career enhancing experience certainly in the short term, and more clarity regarding long-range plans.”