At some point, most people consider travelling abroad to widen their perspective of the world. One of the easiest ways of achieving this fete involves finding a job in the destination country. While the idea floats in our minds a lot of time, taking the first step towards actualising it is always a problem. Some people are scared of the very prospect of having to sacrifice what is familiar and comfortable for the unknown. However, acting on the urge to travel can be a great boost to your career and a milestone in your personal development.
Here is a systematic process to help you secure a job abroad:
- Know what you want
We all want to move around the world, but for different reasons. Some of us want to tour the globe and explore areas they have never been. Others are looking for jobs that pay better than their current occupations. Still, others have solid jobs but feel that they need a change. Knowing what you want will help you narrow your choices.
- Do your homework
Now that you know where you want to go and what you hope to do there, do a little digging around. For example, what do employment laws say in that country? What kinds of documents do you need? How much money is required to have to live comfortably in the destination country?
- Think about the money
You have to know how much money the jobs you are looking for are worth. Mostly, the figure needs to be a significant improvement over what you are earning currently.
- Seek the help of organisations
There are outfits that always know where the jobs are. They will guide you in your search you and show you attractive prospects. Such organisations provide travel ideas to students as well as professionals.
- Scrutinise job boards
Employers in your country of choice will display their vacancies on job boards. In some cases, you will find openings earmarked for expatriates. Pick up opportunities that fit your resume only. Make use of the job search websites and recruitment agencies. Many agencies will do all of the prep work for you, which can be a significant factor when choosing desired country and job.
- Tailor your resume to fit local requirements
Resumes do not look the same all around the world. You will therefore find countries whose styles are distinctly different from what you are used to. Look around the internet keenly, and you will find perfect examples of what the local resume formats should be like. Always remember to talk about your professional qualifications and certificates. Also, there are professional writing services (such as this one) that will help you write a good resume.
- Engage with others on online expat forums
Connecting with others in your destination country serves as an eye-opener into the kind of life you are headed for and the type of transformation you are poised to make. It is also a chance to make friends and look for housing opportunities (expat forums advertise a lot of those).
- Attend networking events
These allow you to build a community of people in the destination country. There is a big chance that these are your future friends, and they will come in handy as you try to settle in.
- Tell everyone
Some companies will not advertise their jobs in conventional ways; they will bank on word of the mouth and recommendations. Tell people about your plans and see if they have heard of openings.
- Ensure that your budget covers the first two or three months
When you move, you will need time to settle. Sometimes people move prior to landing the jobs of their choice. At that point, you will need a solid financial cushion as you wait to start working.
Living and abroad comes with achievements and challenges in equal measure. Seek to understand your new environment and blend in with everyone else.