Self-initiated foreign experience as accelerated development: Influences of gender

This study explored gender influences on self-initiated foreign experiences (SFE) and the contribution of that experience to international career development. SFE provided accelerated development opportunities for both men and women, but in this sample provided a deeper and more integrated experience for women compared to men. The propensity for women to seek out less risky and more secure environments afforded them greater career opportunities and resultant career capital. SFE provides a positive conduit to accumulate career capital for global careers.