Qualities necessary for working in Papua New Guinea

Set in the Pacific Ocean to the north of Australia, Papua New Guinea is perhaps one of the most exotic destinations in the world for expats looking to get away from everything familiar and really make a difference.

Better known as a destination for intrepid explorers and seekers eager to temporarily enjoy a totally unspoiled corner of the world than for expats, Papua New Guinea is the ultimate getaway for the adventurous. As a ‘developing country’ with a long way to go, it’s perhaps the ultimate challenge for expats looking to make a difference to themselves as well as to those they’re working with.

Surprisingly, it’s perfectly possible to make a go of expat life in this undoubtedly remote corner of the world, with resilience one of the most essential requirements. Learning from the many challenges you’ll face requires an excess of adaptability and a non-aggressive but decidedly hands-on, creative approach to every task. Another essential quality is cultural adaptability, as the country is one of the world’s most culturally diverse. Over 800 languages are spoken, and only 18 per cent of its seven million people live in urban centres, making it essential for expats to honour and respect the varied rural cultures.

Most expats come for a stated job and find themselves acting as mentors more often than not. Even although this task may not be in your job description, it’s an essential part of your input. Teaching and building capability in your team creates huge and lasting impacts on those you’re working with. Being an expat here also involves flexibility, especially with time, as weather-instigated project delays are the norm and need to be taken in your stride. There’s no such thing as a comfortable regime on Papua New Guinea.

Positivity and organisational skills are equally important here, especially in the early days when you’re adjusting to a pace of life so slow it often seems to just stop! Staying organised on matters such as dates, documents, visas and other boring necessities saves a lot more time and hassle than it takes. Finally, creating change in this developing nation is a challenge, but the results make a difference in the workplace, the community and in those who’re capable of working as an expat in this amazing place.