Work Abroad in Asia
Asian countries play a key role in the world economy, with major growth happening in India, China, Japan and South Korea. China is home to the world’s largest population and also the world’s largest economy. 
Major parts of Asia are becoming more technological savvy, more industrialized, catching up to the rest of the world and now offering many economic and employment opportunities that rival that of the United States and other European countries. Some Asian countries, however, such as Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam are facing slower growth. Throughout Asia there are pockets of economic success and economic turmoil.
Some of the world’s top professionals find high-paying and rewarding careers in Asia, while there are others who are facing turmoil, poor working conditions and very low pay. In addition to the Asian countries, nearby Pacific Rim countries of New Zealand and Australia also provide more opportunities in the region. Types of jobs include:
- Consulting
- Customer Service
- Energy
- Fishing
- Banking/Financial Services
- Maritime
- Manufacturing/Industrial
- Oil and Gas
- Shipping
- Information Technology
- Tourism
ASIA EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK
Many Asian countries face the same challenges that American, European and other Western counterparts face. Some industries are hot, some are struggling. Each country has its own hot jobs and struggles. Many American companies are outsourcing IT and customer service positions to Asian countries. At the same time, the financial services and manufacturing sectors of Asia are growing and competing with the global economy. American companies continue to do business with Asian companies and are even transferring operations to Asian countries. American companies are looking for workers to direct these operations and work on a global level with American and Asian business partnerships.
Many of these countries also are hiring teachers who are able to teach English as a second language.
EDUCATION/TRAINING
Those looking to work in Asian countries can succeed by with a diverse educational background. Those with Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctorate degrees, along with international business, international relations and diverse language skills will become more valuable to Asian employers. Those who can speak mandarin (China), Nihongo , (Japan), Hindi (India), Hangungmal (Korean) and Persian or Arabic could have greatly enhance job prospects.
In addition to a formal education, one who is well-versed in the cultures of various Asian cities and villages will make the easiest transition and become the most valuable to Asian corporations hiring American workers.
SALARY
Salaries vary greatly pending on country, profession and careers. Jobs in modernized countries such as Japan, parts of China, and India pay equal to or more than similar positions in the United States. Others pay much less, which is why they are outsourced to these countries. Jobs in less developed countries (Philippines, Malaysia) pay much less, and low wages along with poor conditions cam make these hard places to live.
Research each company and opportunity to find out about wages compared to cost of living when considering Asian jobs.
SUMMARY
Asian countries offer a variety of challenges and opportunities. Those seeking international business opportunities can find Asian countries that consistently do business with Americans and hire Americans. In addition to education and training a firm understanding of the Asian culture and a grasp of the many different languages can lead to successfully finding jobs in Asia.
Here are resources for jobs in Asia: