The ways that we go about jobs have changed. It used to be that you could call a few recruiters, send out some CVs or resumes and look for job ads in your Saturday newspaper.
Jobs search now? - It's a jungle out there!
Defining “International Jobs” in Job Search
Before you start a job search you need to define what you are really looking for. The way you work internationally will depend on your personal situation and interests. So-called international jobs come in all sizes, shapes and forms. You can be surprised to realize that in fact, more than 70% of all international jobs are located in the United States.
Here are some categories of international jobs based on primary location with examples of employers within those categories:
Live in your home country, and
Work with people of another culture:
- A social service organization that helps new immigrants.
- Multicultural or international student advisor at a college or university.
- Translator or interpreter of a foreign language.
Work for an international company (which may or may not involve travel) i.e.:
- Guinness PLC (British).
- Nestle (Swiss).
- Toyota (Japanese).
- Bayers (German).
- Colgate (American)
- Coca-Cola (American)
- Pepsi-Cola (American)
Work for a foreign organization, travelling occasionally:
- A buyer for a major department store.
- International Education Coordinator for a foreign college or university.
- Foreign banks and insurance companies with international offices.
- Foreign consulting, engineering, law or accounting firms.
Maintain communication with other countries, without necessarily travelling:
- Import/Export businesses.
- Government positions.
- Teach.
Live in a foreign country, and
Work as a volunteer for a foreign volunteer organization
Work for a foreign-owned business or school
- Teach English as a second language in the JET program.
- Work as an engineer, consultant or another professional for a foreign company.
- Work as an "Americanizer" in a British publishing firm.
Work for an American business overseas:
- Disneyland Paris, France.
- American engineering or mining firms i.e. Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc in Indonesia.
- Ford in Germany.
- American accounting or law firm with offices abroad.
- Coca-Cola.
- Pepsi-Cola.
Work for the American government:
- Foreign Service position.
- US Army and Air Force Exchange (civilian positions at military bases worldwide).
Careers that involve constant international travel:
Careers in the transportation or travel industry, particularly:
- Cruise ship worker.
- Tour guide.
- Pilot.
- Sailor.
Ways to pursue your international interests regardless of your career:
You can keep your international perspective through:
- Volunteer work. Work as a volunteer for an international volunteer institution.
- Participating in international exhibits and programs.
- Joining international clubs or international organizations.
- Visiting museums, art galleries and shows.
- Attending local ethnic festivals.
- Keeping free membership or search for international jobs at international jobs search websites.
International Job Search
The world over employers looks for the same qualities in their applicants regardless of whether the job is in the USA, Poland or Hong Kong. Applying for a job abroad differs from country to country. Candidates should be aware that there might be subtle conventions associated with international CVs and job application processes within different countries. Therefore, if you want your job application to be taken seriously, you must consider national differences correctly.
International job seekers should be prepared to take the foreign country as it is with all of its difficulties, contradictions and challenges.
The applicants should be familiar with basic information related to the country in which they are seeking employment. Knowledge of economics data could be crucial during a job interview.
Be aware of the regional differences in cultural manners, dress code and language, if you want to apply successfully for an international job.
You may run your job search right now, but when you find some suitable jobs you must apply immediately with your current CV or resume and cover letter.
Remember that your CV/resume must be targeted, scannable and generate hits. If you have difficulty with your CV writing or resume writing instead of staring at a blank piece of paper, use CV samples and CV templates, resume samples and resume templates.
Most recruiters expect to receive a cover letter together with your CV or resume. So, prepare a cover letter convincing the reader why you are the best candidate for the interview using cover letter writing tips.
In recent years it has become increasingly popular to join the LinkedIn or Facebook social networking websites for professionals, where you may search for jobs and have your keyword-optimized, rich content profile with current CV or resume. Hiring managers use them more frequently to consult your profile and supplement or check against the CV/resume you send along. If you do not have an account, create one and include your social media link(s) on your CV/resume.
However, you should manage your online presence. Eliminate any photos and statements that could reflect poorly on you. From an employer’s point of view, someone who emphasizes partying on a social networking site is not focused on jobs and those who post complaints about work or colleagues are less desirable candidates. Online CV/resume should not include sensitive information as they could show a lack of respect for confidentiality and discretion.
Other International Jobs Info
To be successful in your job search and get the jobs you want, you need to prepare a cover letter and CV or resume which you must email instantly to the prospective employers selected during a job search.
When you receive an invitation to the job interview, you may apply for a visa and work permit. Then prepare yourself for a job interview and take a look at the dress code because how you dress is one of the most important attributes in being hired.
Check the job interview dos & don'ts and other job search skills pages. Find out why people are not hired for available jobs.
In addition, on job search, visas, work permits, cover letters, CV & resume, job interviews and dress codes pages, you will find very useful tips for many different countries.
Good luck with your international jobs!