News and Insights
The Value of Gaining Work Experience Abroad: Insights from FINN’s Global Exchange Program
January 16, 2025
Participating in the Global Exchange Program was an eye-opening experience that exceeded my expectations in every way. Over the course of two weeks, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in a new professional environment, collaborate with colleagues across the globe, and gain invaluable insights that I can now bring back to my work and client relationships.
This experience had been a long time coming. Back in 2019, when I first expressed interest in the pilot FINN Partners Exchange Program, I shared two mantras that have long guided my life: “I can do it” and “everything happens for a reason.” These principles have been reinforced during my 10 years at FINN, where hard work, determination, taking risks, and a positive attitude are celebrated. This program felt like the culmination of those values, a confluence of motivation and opportunity that aligned perfectly with my growth journey at FINN.
The following are some reflections on the value of gaining work experience abroad and highlights from my time in Singapore.
Professional Growth Beyond Borders
Have you ever stepped into a meeting room on the other side of the world and felt like a sponge, soaking up new ideas and perspectives? That’s exactly how I felt for two weeks at FINN’s Singapore office.
During my first week, I had the opportunity to attend the PRovoke Asia-Pacific Summit. FINN hosted a panel and sponsored the event, and the discussions were nothing short of inspiring. I learned the saying “same same, but different” which perfectly summarizes the takeaways from the event. I came away from it with fresh insights on emerging trends and global PR strategies—many of which we’ve started testing among our Midwest team. Whether learning how to (or not to) use AI, adapting social content strategies for Gen Z or figuring out what truly defines “thought leadership” we’re all faced with the same opportunities and challenges, regardless of where we live and work.
Getting hands-on with preparations for a client event with the Singapore Design Council was another standout moment. Supporting onsite logistics for 30 media and influencers during Singapore Design Week was a whirlwind, but it was so rewarding to see the impact of thoughtful planning and collaboration in action. It pushed me to be more agile and solution-oriented, qualities I’m excited to bring back to our own client projects.
Building Global Connections
Networking is often touted as the key to career growth, and this experience supported why. Meeting an existing client’s local marketing director over coffee served as more than just a great conversation—it was the start of a dialogue about expanding our program globally and opening up new avenues for collaboration.
Similarly, holding one-on-one meetings with my Singapore-based peers fostered connections that aren’t often possible virtually. We explored growth strategies, brainstormed collaboration opportunities, and even uncovered some quick wins for both teams.
It’s amazing how one conversation can spark new possibilities for collaboration across markets. These moments of cultural exchange underscored that building relationships isn’t just about what you gain professionally; it’s about finding common ground and shared goals that benefit everyone.
Cross-Cultural Learning
Stepping into a new culture’s way of working was as enlightening as it was humbling. The Singapore team’s approach to integrated communication strategies and measurement is incredibly forward-thinking. Their ability to weave together diverse elements into cohesive campaigns has inspired me to rethink some of our own strategies back home.
This trip wasn’t just about absorbing knowledge, but also having the chance to contribute. Hosting a sharing session where I presented on U.S. office culture, work examples, and media trends felt like a true exchange of ideas. It was exciting to see how my insights resonated with the team, and likewise to walk away with new tools and tactics to share with my Midwest colleagues. The experience reaffirmed the value of bringing fresh perspectives to the table. Sometimes, an outsider’s point of view can be just what’s needed to spark new ideas and solutions.
My time in Singapore also reinforced the importance of empathetic communication in our work. I’ve often said that understanding where people come from and the experiences that have shaped them is critical to building authentic relationships. I was reminded how vital it is to approach every interaction with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
The Bigger Picture
Work experience abroad isn’t just about professional growth—it’s about building bridges. I’m so proud to have been a part of this unique program and contribute to its mission of exchanging knowledge, expanding networks, and exploring new opportunities for our clients and teams. Beyond the professional benefits, it reminded me of the power of stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing the unfamiliar.
When I think back to the journey that brought me here, it’s clear that the mantras guiding my life played an integral role. Whether it’s fate or hard work, experiences like this one remind me that stepping out to take risks and embracing new challenges leads to growth in ways we can’t always predict.
POSTED BY: Shelby Armstrong
