What does it really mean to build a global career?
For some, it may involve relocating to a different country. For others, it means working with colleagues and markets around the world without changing location. In Episode 3 of BAT at Work, host Jeliana Rodriguez is joined by Anastasiia Volkova and Salih Gucyilmaz to explore the many different ways an international career can take shape.
Their conversation looks beyond job titles and locations to the experiences that come with working across borders. Anastasiia Volkova and Salih Gucyilmaz reflect on adapting to different cultures, creating connections in unfamiliar environments and learning how to build trust across global and remote teams.
Both guests share honest stories from their own journeys, including the cultural misunderstandings, unexpected challenges and moments of humour that helped them learn. They discuss how customs that may seem small, from greetings to everyday expressions, can reveal important differences in the ways people communicate and connect.
The episode also explores the support that can make a transition easier. Buddies, mentors and colleagues all play an important role, providing practical guidance as well as a trusted space to discuss personal and professional challenges.
For Anastasiia Volkova, deliberately arranging informal coffee conversations helped her establish relationships with colleagues working in other locations. Salih Gucyilmaz also highlights the importance of saying "yes" to opportunities, including the informal moments that help transform working relationships into lasting connections.
Throughout the discussion, one message stands out: building a global career takes time. Confidence develops through experience, exposure to different perspectives and the willingness to admit when you do not know something.
Their advice to anyone considering an international or location-agnostic opportunity is straightforward: stay curious, build relationships, be patient and take the opportunity if it comes.
Watch Episode 3 of BAT at Work on YouTube.
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