How to approach a second career in the UAE: as contractor or employee?

A US submarine captain considering a new career in the nuclear energy sector in the Gulf, must decide whether he wants to work for a company or go it alone as a contractor.

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I'm a US submarine captain and nuclear engineer planning on relocating to the UAE (Abu Dhabi) or Saudi next year to start a second career in nuclear engineering/energy. I'm a very successful professional but have not worked commercially in the Middle East yet. Can you recommend groups to network with and, most importantly, salary negotiation approaches? Would I be best to approach a large company/entity as an executive looking for employment or approach them as an independent contractor looking for subcontract opportunities? CW, US

aYou have made an exciting decision in planning to relocate to the UAE or Saudi, and have some important options to consider. First, you need to decide whether to seek a professional post as an employee or become an independent contractor.

The question is, do you need financial stability immediately? An employee receives a regular salary and employment benefits. An independent contractor has no barriers or limits to earnings, so can enjoy the financial fruits of success more directly, but you can be more susceptible to economic or market changes.

When negotiating salary, it is important to take into account the cost of living in countries such as the UAE, any relocation expenses – and if these will be covered – or whether an accommodation allowance is available. Independent contractors often also have start-up as well as ongoing overheads such as office expenses and equipment costs. It may be worthwhile consulting a financial adviser before making your decision.

There are also emotional dimensions to consider – an employee gets to work with others, operate within a social structure and share success as a team. An independent contractor gets to be his or her own boss.

If you want to be a collaborator and part of a team, you should consider seeking employment. But if you want to be more entrepreneurial, more independent and potentially earn more money, consider being an independent contractor. Contracting may also give you an opportunity to test out a new employer first, before committing to a full-time position. Equally, this second career may be your opportunity to make a significant work and lifestyle change.

There are also other considerations when opting to work in the Middle East. Leaders in the Gulf today require multiple skills – organisational skills, motivational capabilities and excellent people management.

It is important to use and demonstrate your people skills, as well as your technical expertise. In the Middle East, doing business revolves much more around personal relationships and trust. Initial meetings are all about relationship-building, so engage in conversation, establish a personal connection and get to know the person you are doing business with. Work to create a rapport before getting down to business, as this can contribute to creating the right impression with senior stakeholders.

Be thoughtful and deliberate about where you put your networking energy. Ensure your network includes people you enjoy being with, can learn from, find challenging or will be beneficial to your career success, as well as reaching out to people who have been in the region for a number of years.

Some professional and meetup groups to consider include the American Business Council, or British Business Group and sector-specific networks. There are also expatriate online forums that offer useful advice and opportunities.

As well as considering roles within nuclear engineering and the energy sector, mandatory military service for all Emiratis aged 18 to 30 was recently introduced, and a new national defence and reserve force set up. With your specialist background, this could also offer a new career path for you.

Doctor’s prescription:

Before embarking on your career change, consider whether you want to be a part of a team and share successes as an employee, or if you want to be more independent. Tap into any existing contacts, and network widely with business and meetup groups to gain as many regional links as possible.

Alex Davda is a business psychologist and consultant at Ashridge Business School, based in the Middle East. Email him at business@thenational.ae for advice on any work issues.

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