Fox Views: This is how you survive the initial shock of an Asian posting

Many people can't handle their first few months abroad and return home early, but those that clear this initial hurdle tend to stay a few years - some a lot longer. Here are my thoughts on surviving the first few months of an overseas assignment in Asia.

Focus on work

Never forget: work is the main reason you have moved. The reality of work in your new country will differ from both your experience and expectations. Particularly in the early stages, learning from predecessors and colleagues will give you a better understanding of the challenges and it will also demonstrate your commitment and mean you're more likely to be successful.

Have some fun

Although work is the core, balance is needed. Having fun and socialising will break up the work focus and avoid lonely weekends. Colleagues are more likely to be frank about their experiences when they are outside of the office, and other foreigners and locals you'll meet will also have useful insights. Try to balance the drinking with concerts or sporting events.

Do something you do at home

A great way to feel less transient and broaden your social network is to find a club or hobby that matches your existing interests. A lot of people are surprised to find golf clubs, triathlon clubs, choirs and team sports in countries you would least expect. Even as a veteran expat, I was surprised to watch a game of ice hockey in Bangkok!

Do something you can't do at home

Experience the local culture - both the tourist trail and leveraging local contacts will leave you with lasting memories and further evidence that the offshore posting was a good call. Hiking, Japanese onsens, junk trips, food at local markets could be within easy access.

Find a good place to live

Finding the right place and having your own 'stuff' is a massive relief, and it's even more critical for people relocating with families. Look for accommodation near schools, parks, coffee shops etc to make it even easier for your family. You will probably find a lot of your friends and colleagues already live close by. Staying in hotels and serviced apartments only serves to highlight the temporary nature of the posting and limits your ability and intent to integrate.

Invite family and friends to visit

You are the one that moved - share your new experiences with family and friends. Showing them around will highlight how well you have assimilated and how much you're enjoying challenge. Many people you know won't ever work overseas and might not even visit your destination without your invitation.

And finally...relax and enjoy...

There will be times when you are stressed with new challenges at work or you are missing mates, events, foods or something from home. There will be times when your social calendar isn't full and when you reflect on whether taking an offshore role was a good idea. The reality is that your employer understands that you face challenges. Most of the foreigners you meet were in the same situation and most locals are sympathetic and keen for you to experience their culture. Plan to relax and enjoy your time overseas because - whether it is over in six months or sixteen years - after the event it will feel like it went by too quickly.

Stuart Fox, formerly managing director, head of Asia Pacific commodities at UBS, started as a graduate recruit in Sydney. During his 15-year career, he spent 12 years overseas, with assignments in Tokyo, London, Hong Kong and Singapore, as well as extensive business travel throughout Asia, Europe and North America.