The Top 10 Tips for Getting a Foreign Job
If you’re looking to work abroad, you might be stumped on
how to get started. As with most other jobs, there are specific steps you can
take to find and land your dream job in another country. Here are some of the
top tips to get a foreign job, including ways to network, tips on language
learning and using LinkedIn to find the right opportunity for you. If you’re
looking to be able to provide for yourself and your family while living abroad,
look no further than these tips on how to get a foreign job.
1) Customize Your CV
A tailored resume can increase your chances of getting an
interview by up to 20%. Make sure you tailor each resume and cover letter to
individual jobs. And don’t forget to include keywords from the job description
in your CV.
2) Use Current Events to Demonstrate Your Interest
Think about what’s going on in your country, state or city
and tie it into your interest. If you’re interested in environmentalism, write
a post about how recent weather patterns can be attributed to climate change.
3) Research and Contact Companies Directly
Often times, companies have job openings posted on their
official websites. If you find an opening that interests you, there’s no reason
not to apply directly. In addition to posting jobs online, many companies also
offer career fairs and networking events where you can meet hiring managers in
person. To get your foot in the door at these events, make sure your resume is
up-to-date and professional looking.
4) Network and Connect Through Social Media
In today’s job market, networking and connecting with
professionals through social media is one of your best tools to secure foreign
employment. It is also an excellent way to learn about new opportunities before
they are advertised publicly. Through Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other
platforms you can connect with people from all over the world who are looking
for workers like you!
5) Get Advice From Locals or Expats in the Area
Ask locals or expats in your target area how they got their
jobs. If you’re going to an English-speaking country, you can easily find local
and expat Facebook groups where people post about job openings. There are also
plenty of message boards online dedicated to helping foreigners get jobs abroad.
6) Prepare for the Interview by Practicing Questions
As you think about various questions you might get asked in
an interview, prepare and practice by writing out your responses. If you’re not
sure what kinds of questions employers ask, ask a friend or family member to
conduct an interview session with you.
7) Emphasize Future Growth Opportunities with Employers
Are you considering applying to jobs abroad? If so, think of
it as an investment in your future career. A lot of multinational companies are
located outside of North America and Europe, especially in Asia and South
America.
8) Have Confidence When You Speak English with Others
It is important to have confidence when you speak English
with others. In order to do so, you need to be aware of your strengths and
weaknesses. If you know that there are certain things that you struggle with,
then it will be easier for you to practice them.
9) Write Emails in English Before Sending Them Off
If you don’t know English, it can be difficult to compose emails
in another language. Before sending off an email that contains sensitive
information or offers praise or criticism, have a friend proofread it for
grammar and spelling mistakes.
10) Always Follow Up With Your Applications or Email Inquiries
Whether it’s a job or an internship, always follow up with
your application by calling or emailing your contact. If you don’t have any
contacts, find out who does and ask them to put in a good word for you. The
more effort you put into following up, the better chance you have of landing
that foreign job!