Trying for Job Abroad? Here are 10 Most Important Tips!

While working abroad can be a great experience, it can also help you launch your international career. Your language skills and cross-cultural competencies will soar, while your soft skills will also increase. You should take the chance to travel abroad if you can. These are some things you should consider, facts that you need to look up, and questions that you can ask.

1. Learn all you can about visas.

Your ability to legally work abroad no matter how hard you plan or organize will determine the success of your plans. This is why it’s important to know what paperwork you will need to legally work in other countries. Remember that applying for a visa/permit may take time and cost money. Also, it is important to understand how long you will be allowed to keep these documents. Do they have to be related to employment?

2. Research the cost per day vs. your annual salary

Next on the list are important considerations: money. Even though you don’t know exactly how much money each month will bring in, it is worth knowing what the industry median is and how this compares to the cost of living. It is important to determine how much money you will still have after all of your monthly expenses (rent and bills, taxes, etc.). are paid. (None of these things is as depressing as living in an amazing location and not being capable of affording anything.

3. Find out how to get a job.

Once you have decided on a city, find out how easy it is to find work and a place where you can live. Find out how commuters live and how it affects your budget. While it might be easier to move to certain countries and be more flexible in where you work, you will still need to find a job. Try to get help with the established recruitment agencies back home at first. They know the places, environment, and requirements.

4. How much time will you save?

If you’re looking to discover a new culture, one reason you might move abroad is that you need the time. It may seem insignificant at first but it’s important to know how much vacation time and sick days you will get. These can vary significantly between countries. No travel is better than no work, so ensure you have the time and money to visit and explore your family back at home.

5. Begin to build a community

Try to build a network as soon as you land in the new country. The contacts and network you build, even if it is small will help you get support on new matters. Use social media to find and connect with people in your industry. Become active on social media, mainly on related groups and forums, and get help.

6. Learn about your country, its culture, and history

Everything is more spectacular when you’re away on vacation. We don’t want to rain all over your parade but life in a country can be quite different. There will likely be delays, taxes, and bills. You might be living farther from the ocean than you originally thought. Even though we don’t think everything will be bad, we suggest you try to be realistic. Don’t let your vacation goggles get in the way of evaluating your future home. Visit the future home before moving in and make sure you’re comfortable living there. This is a great chance to meet potential employers (even for networking), take a look at local neighborhoods, and discuss the current job market and living arrangements with locals.

7. Get a better understanding of how locals search for jobs

Different cultures have their approaches to finding a job. Some prefer more formalities and lots of paperwork. Others prefer face-to-face interactions. Learn from locals how they find their jobs. Find out if your options are open to you (and whether you need to consult a professional).

8. Study how to write CVs, cover letters, and other correspondence.

Now that you’re able to find a job, get all the information you need. Know what documents/references and personal details you will need.

9. Learn more about diplomas & certificates

Your work experience, education, and skills might indicate that your new country might require an additional diploma or certificate. Look into the requirements of your new job to find out how, where, when, and how you can obtain them. This may mean that you will have to spend more time and/or money to get the job done. The free EF SET testing is a good way to begin certifying your English level. Read more about English exams.

10. Expect the unexpected.

Exploring a new area, opening up a new chapter, and broadening one’s horizons, are just some of the reasons you might want to work abroad. We just want you to know that it’s possible to experience culture shock and homesickness. There will also be some “that’s just it is”-answers. It happens to the best, so accept it as part of growing, becoming better, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.