How to Find Your Dream Job Abroad

Many people long to travel abroad and see the world beyond the borders of their own countries. For some, the idea of combining their ambition to travel with a desire to work overseas as well.

This needs careful planning to secure a lucrative experience in a country you really want to visit. Most people don’t even know where to get started. Here are some guidelines to help.

Work at a company that offers international transfer opportunities

If you start off working at a company with international branches, chances are you’ll soon be able to apply for a transfer to another country. This is a conservative approach but may take time to get you to where you want to be. The position you take to get a transfer may not be your first choice, but you can move up the ladder once you get there.

Network

Do online research about the country of your choice and what job opportunities they have there. Look into the real odds of you getting in, as many countries have policies admitting only ‘scarce skills’ applicants. Speak to people you know: they may know someone you can contact you who can help or offer advice on how to proceed.

Get your name out there

Email and contact the people at agencies and job sites for the country you want to travel to. Leave your email address at sites to receive job alerts. Follow all the avenues of advice offered to make sure you leave no stone unturned.

Speak the language

If you want to work in a country where your home language is not spoken, it is critical that gain some language skills so that you can communicate with your colleagues as well as those you meet outside of work. Take language courses to become familiar with the language. If you can, travel there for a short while to get an idea of the culture and make sure you have sufficient language skills to survive. It’s better to stay with people than in a hotel. When you do a home-stay experience, you have more chances to practice the language.

Find out the requirements

Research what you need to do to relocate to the country you want to work for. You will need a passport, visas, travel insurance, work permits, and an international driver’s license. There may be further requirements. To avoid surprises and disappointments, make sure you are aware of as much as possible and do what is necessary well in advance.

Don’t turn back

Once you’ve made the decision and an opportunity becomes available, don’t doubt yourself, your abilities, or the choice you are making.

Negative thoughts such as thinking about the job opportunities you’ll be missing at home or worrying you’re not going to be able to manage should be banished from your mind. If it’s what you really want, you will make a success of it. Take courage, look forward and move toward the opportunity of a lifetime.