5 Valuable Tips to Help You Secure a Job Abroad
Maybe you've dreamed of moving to a different country since you can remember. Or perhaps your interest was sparked when you studied abroad. Another reason might be the lack of good jobs where you live. Whatever your reasons, you're wanting to find a job abroad.
You might have a city or country in mind, but if you don't, try to find a specific place where your skills might be valuable or in demand. While foreign language skills are generally appreciated, if your skills aren't wanted, you won't be attractive to potential employers. So, to help you with your international job search, here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of success.
Research, Research, Research
Whenever you're looking for an international job, it's important to stay up to date on the global job market. Keeping an eye on international news would be a good place to start. If an organization has just laid off a bunch of people, they're not an option since they won't be hiring soon, especially foreign workers. Once you've done thorough research, you can start searching for jobs abroad.
Change Your Resume Format
Every country has different resume format requirements. It's advisable to change it to the format of the country you are targeting for your job search. Additionally, you'll want to match your keywords to the local language. For example, if you're applying for a job in the UK, consider changing words like 'labor' or 'honor' to 'labour' and 'honour'. If you understand the spoken language, you can even translate your resume entirely.
Find a Credible International Recruiter
There are so many scams out there with people promising to get you a job overseas. All you have to do is pay a fee upfront. A reputable recruiter will never ask for money and if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. You'd be better of hiring an international recruitment agency like Black Pen Recruitment to assist you in your search for foreign language job opportunities in the country of your choice.
Touch Base with Your Network
Often, it's not what you know, but who you know. There's nothing wrong with reaching out to your network and telling them about your plans to move abroad. You never know, they might have a contact they can introduce you to.
Improve Your Skype Skills
You simply can't get on a plane for every job interview, making skype a crucial part of your international job search. To look professional, you'll want to learn the ins and outs of Skype. And make sure to test your camera and remove clutter from the background before every interview. Dress up and look your best, just as you would for a face to face interview.
Hands down the hardest part of getting a job abroad is convincing the company that you're worth the trouble and effort. It's vital that you take the same measures to market yourself like you would in your home country. If you believe you are the best person for the job, let them understand that. And when you finally get that interview, don't blow it. Give it your best! Here's how you can rock your next job interview...
Do Your Homework on the Company
Job interviews aren't exactly fun but the more you know about the organization, the better you can prepare. Familiarize yourself with the company you're applying to since they might ask you questions to determine your motives, ie whether you want a career with them or just a job.
Be on time
Even if it's a Skype interview, being late for your interview is a bad idea. Make sure you plan your day accordingly and leave enough room for unforeseen circumstances. If you're not able to make it, or if you need to move the time up, get in touch with the interviewer before the agreed time.
Ask Questions
Asking about the type of person they'd ideally want to hire or about the work culture will enable you to present yourself better. While asking questions is good, leave questions about compensation and annual leave for later.
Be Honest
Don't oversell or undersell your skills. Just be honest. Sooner or later, dishonesty will come back to bite you.
Be yourself
First impressions last, so be sure to make a good one. Don't forget to be yourself. If you're the right candidate for the job, that will be enough.
Job interviews are stressful. Your nerves might get the best of you causing you to talk too much and say things you later regret. When the reality is you might not be what they're looking for. And that's ok too! If you've done the best you could and still didn't get the job, soldier on! You will find the job of your dreams soon!
