How to Get Jobs Travelling Abroad

Given the current economic climate, getting a job overseas has become an increasingly attractive option for younger and older professionals. Finding the right jobs and taking advantages of opportunities overseas does, however, require a particular focus and level of commitment to make sure that the move is the right one.

Making a move overseas can be highly challenging, and will involve having to adapt to a number of different cultural changes and expectations of work. In this way, it is important that those considering a career abroad, even if only on a short-term basis, think about how to best position themselves for a market and a specific role:

1) Doing the Research
Those serious about working abroad should spend a considerable amount of time doing research into overseas travel and opportunities. They should think about how much time and money it will cost to get into a particular area, as well as how much of a commitment they can make to a long-term contract. The first stage of finding work overseas should therefore involve doing online research, as well as trying to speak to other people who have gone through the same process.

2) Applying and Networking
Job opportunities can be checked online, and can also be found by signing up to recruitment agencies, and by attending international jobs fairs. Try to find a specialist area that you want to work in, and attempt to build up a range of contacts that can locate you the right job. Put together a CV that is suitable for an international position, and check what requirements are needed in terms of a cover letter, documentation of qualifications, and any other materials that an employer or an agency will need.

3) Selecting the Right Country
Where you go is perhaps the most important decision to make when working abroad. You may just want to move from the UK to mainland Europe, where the travel and cultural adjustment may not be as difficult. By contrast, you may feel that there are more opportunities in the United States, the Middle East, South America and Asia. Deciding where to go will, in part, be affected by the distance you want to be from home, and whether there is a demand for your specific profession.

4) Interviewing and Qualifications
Most international job interviews now take place over the phone or via Skype. Think about whether an employer will ask questions about why you want to move to a particular country, and why you have chosen them. Similarly, make sure that your qualifications are relevant to what they are asking for, and always make sure to check a working contract. Moving abroad to work and not realising expectations or responsibilities can be disastrous.

5) Settling into a New Culture
Any move overseas is going to be difficult, especially if you are travelling alone. You should research the local culture you will be entering into before moving, and should also try to learn the language. Understanding religious beliefs and terms of respect and offense will also make it much easier to settle in at a workplace, while avoiding potential embarrassments.

6) Figuring Out a Work/Life Balance
Adjusting to a new job is hard, and you don’t want to do too much when you’ve just arrived. Work out the best balance between your job and exploring a country. Taking this approach is particularly important if you are only staying for a short time, as you will have opportunities to soak in a lot of different cultures.

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