Legacy Foundation Business and Leadership

Archive for August, 2009

The phrase,’ going home’ evokes strong and very individual emotions for the repatriating family, none more so perhaps, than for the repatriating teenager, for whom until now, home has always been where his globally nomadic parents happen to be living at that moment.

Third Culture kids are raised in a culture that lies somewhere between their parents native culture and that of the country where they are based. They develop some sense of belonging both to their host and passport cultures, but do not have a sense of total ownership in any culture, hence when asked the question where are you from, they often respond with a question. Do you mean where I was born or live now?

Repatriation is a double challenge for teenagers, not only are they having to cope with the traumas of adolescence, they are also having to face loss of identity and displacement on their return.

Many TCK’s although well versed in foreign affairs and travel from their overseas life, are at a big disadvantage when it comes to the practical life skills required for living in their home country, some examples are: using public transport, managing money and having a holiday job.

A recently repatriated 15 year old TCK from Islamabad to Ireland describe his reactions to repatriation. ‘Everything was different the culture and the people. There was huge consumerism after living in a country like Pakistan. I missed the lack of rules, the way everything overseas was much more laid back, I also missed the diversity of such a big country and the fascinating travel experiences. I felt slightly out of place, because I feel I’m a bit more open minded’ and six months into repatriation ‘ I don’t miss the old life as much now, though I still miss my friends’.

The repatriating TCK faces multiple losses, loss of the country/lifestyle they have been living in, loss of close friendships, and loss of identity. Wherever there is loss in life, there will always be grief, and this will be the most profound emotion the TCK will experience on repatriation. It is imperative that parents and personnel responsible for their repatriation understand that these emotions are very real and frightening and should not be allowed to go unrecognised. Read the rest of this entry »

So you’re fresh out of Business School and you’re thinking about joining that “Big-5” firm that has offered you a ridiculously high-salary, the option to travel to different cities and even countries routinely and fancy vellum business cards with your name is bold print. Could life get any better? Yes and No.

As a professional that has worked in the Consulting Industry, specifically the Management Consulting Industry for over nine years, the life of a professional consultant is a life paved with financial, career and travel rewards not normally available through traditional means of employment.

If you’re a single person, I would be hard pressed to find a better job as your career in consulting will take you to countless cities and even countries across the globe. You will routinely encounter brilliant people in your line of work as well as people of different cultures, religions and ethnicities. Depending on the length of your engagement, you’ll never stay in a single location long enough to grow tired of the surroundings. BUT, if you’re a person in a relationship, I can’t think of a worst profession to call a career. The strains of travel and being apart from your loved one(s) can only lead to discord in your relationship. This is obviously a generalization for I’ve personally known many professionals in happy relationships but it is a risk worth considering.

Are you the adventurous type? Then consulting will provide you with many an opportunity for adventure. Consulting will afford you opportunities to travel to locales you may have never thought you would have traveled to before; London, New York, Paris and Beijing being four locations where travel to is typical. Then again, during the onset of your career you should expect to visit not-so glamorous locations such as Butte, Montana or even Lincoln, Nebraska (no offense). If you like the idea of staying in a single city, single office and just stability in general; consulting may not be the life for you. You are paid that ridiculously high salary because Fortune 500 companies expect you to come to them. Travel is part and parcel to this career, so get used to it.

Do you like repetition? Getting comfortable with the same routine at work so much that you can do it with your eyes closed? If you’re answer is “Yes”, then turn around now, don’t pass “Go” and don’t collect $200.00…this ain’t the job for you! Consulting demands a lot of its practitioners, the main trait being ambition and the desire for bigger and more complex challenges. This career isn’t for the meek nor timid but rather for the over achiever looking for rapid movement up the corporate ladder. If this is you, then you’re chosen your career wisely.

All in all, a career in the Consulting Industry is a fruitful career. Even if you find yourself growing tired of the job after a few years, you’re work history and talent will be sought after by many other companies for Corporate America understands the trials and tribulations associated with the career and values any professional with such experience.

If you’ve read this article and have decided to finally sign that offer letter and next-day air it back to the home office; then welcome to the world of 60-hour work weeks, constantly eating out and a different hotel bed every month…enjoy the ride.

By: Alfred GarciaEdited By: Michael C. Podlesny

Australian Business Opportunities

How about buying a Franchise?

Most people have had the dream of owning their own business at one time.  If you are one of them, maybe you have considered buying an Australian franchises.

Living in Australia already gives you a tremendous lifestyle but, if you are thinking about buying a business of any type you must consider all the implications.

The pluses of owning an Australian franchise are that the business will already be established and have name recognition.  If you were to open your own business there are many additional steps that you would have to take on your own.  The first step toward your business is to find the areas that need a service or product.  Once you have done this you have to write your business plan and then secure financing.

One of the main reasons that people have greater success with a franchise is that they have worked out the majority of the problems that can sink a business. First time business owners will find this especially comforting.

When you buy a franchise business you will be instantly recognised, which in itself brings credibility.  There will also be support from the franchisor that encompasses both technical and administration concerns.  If you are not familiar with the franchise product or service you will receive training in the appropriate way the business is to be run.  Most people see a much faster investment return with a franchise.  A franchise has gone through the pains of finding effective management skills and they pass them on to you.  There are also other franchisees that can give you immeasurable support.

If you were to own your own business without the benefit of a franchise you must come up with an advertising budget. You must create your own marketing and place your adverts accordingly.  When you are part of the franchise you will normally have the national advertising and media exposure as part of your franchise package.

Unfortunately many independent business owners can’t compete with the advertising budget of a franchise.  This means that if you have such a business you will face fierce competition from them because they will have more resources.  The promotions that they can run will help in the operation of the franchise owned business. Read the rest of this entry »