Overview
The city of Boston is a home to a large number of information technology companies and is a stronghold for biotechnology research in America. Career opportunities abound in these fields and in a host of many other sectors, led by medical services which are actively pursuing qualified hospital and pharmaceutical staff.
A career in real estate is also promising for newly relocated expatriates who don't only need properties for themselves, but also want to make a living selling such to the many other newly arrived expats. Information technology companies are actively hiring for various positions, as are marketing research companies for marketing jobs in all levels. The financial services sector is also a hotbed for expat job hunters seeking a career in financial advising or portfolio management. Universities in Boston have been hiring a great number of professors as well in the various academic disciplines.
Work Visa and Other Requirements
Being able to work with the proper documentation in the US is a complex matter and will take many factors into consideration. For one, there are many types of work permits that apply to different situations, mostly depending on the position sought, the duration of the contract, the type of employer, among others. But anyone can start by determining which category one falls under upon considering the nature of the position and the applicant's educational and employment background.
The H-1B visa is the most commonly issued visa and applies for individuals seeking a job in companies that have a Federal Identification Number/IRS tax number permitting them it to hire foreign labor for any specialty occupation such accountants, engineers, scientists and computer analysts. For any expat hopeful who wants to work in Boston or any other state in the US, it is best to check the federal government's website.
Business Etiquette
It is best to address business acquaintances by their titles such as "Dr.", "Ms." or "Mrs.", although Bostonians, as with other Americans, will almost instinctively ask to be called by their first names. Politeness is very important, but excessive politeness is something they might take with some suspicion. Giving gifts is strongly discouraged by most companies and privacy is always deemed sacred. As Americans always expect personal space even at work, they are also quick to give it to others. There are no hard and fast rules on corporate etiquette as each company varies in culture from the others. Hence, when meeting a business associate or showing up at an interview for the first time, researching the background of the person or company always goes a long way.
Working Hours
Full-time work in Boston means 40 hours per week while part-time could be any number of hours up to 30. The worker has the option which one works best for him. The official workweek starts Mondays and ends Fridays, from 9am until 6pm. Typically, a one-hour lunch break and two-fifteen minute breaks are taken by employees. Many Americans work longer than 40 hours and, thus, make more money.
Wages
US-based companies generally pay well and the salary is usually one of the first considerations expats makes when taking up employment. Wages will, of course, vary. Boston is a big city; hence, workers are paid relatively big as well. However, it is important to note that while one may not have the best offer, other things should be taken into account such as employee benefits. But since even benefits change depending on the location and nature of the job, it is good to look into the different movements that could affect the suitability or unsuitability of a certain offer. Then, one can make a good decision.
For a big and busy city like Boston, job opportunities are as natural as every native Bostonian's thick English accent, and it's up to the expat how he finds his rhythm adjusting to the city's work environment.
More Expat Resources
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