Hi guys, I am back with 5 more practical ideas to land a job abroad. By the way, if you missed my first 5 tips, go to 5 Top ideas to land a job when abroad.
6. Are you into sports/yoga/martial arts? Well, this is a no brainer, really. If a type of dance, a sport discipline, some other social activity is your pie, why not try to get into some local school, institution or school? Furthermore, this could a good way to link with your group of expats for which you could become a referral point in that particular field. My advice is to keep following your passions and jobs may follow after. For example, a passion for sports may translate into jobs as physical education teachers or as a personal trainer whilst a passion for dance may clear the way to start your own dance schools.
7. Stick with what you know, practice the same profession for your local expats community. This is a natural common solution amongst expats and international couples. It works particularly well with trades and professions such as doctors, lawyers etc..Ever thought of that? Targeting your fellow nationals may result in a unique and safe basket of customers, a thing that who starts his own business from scratch may take years to build. Another advantage is that targeting your same-language customers can save you many language-related issues.
8. Look for local recruitment agencies and social media
When looking for a job in a host country it is paramount to understand the local work culture. I think it is always best to approach local job centres and recruitment agencies. They usually have a number of contacts built through personal channels, a thing which is difficult to acquire for big international recruitment conglomerates. Also, never stop uploading your newest details on social media and, in particular, local social media. We all know LinkedIn, but there is also a number of regional look alike websites (for an example of regional look alike, take a look at India: LinkedIn goes local).
9. Business School first, job second
Upon relocating and during the first months of stay in your host country, many choose to boost their career opportunities by joining business schools programs. Either with MBAs or shorter programs like MSc, joining a business school presents two advantages. The first one is the program itself. The knowledge you can aquire can really boost your chances to find a right job or position for you. Moreover, the knowledge itself will definitely broaden your horizons delivering benefits long after the program has ended. On the other hand, business schools have access to a wide range of business and personal contacts and networks. That is why I would suggest that you join such institutions in the country where you will be more likely searching for a job. Networks are a powerful tool and, if used correctly, they can realy make a difference. Within such institutions, career offices are a source within the source.
Explain to the career office guys what is your background, what you are after and keep in touch with them to see how the quest progresses. Moreover, business schools possess two additional tools for you: programs and projects with the industry and alumni networks. The former are a chance for you to forge relationships with the various actors you come in touch with whilst the latter is a rich opportunity to keep in touch with old colleagues, participate to job fairs and events, join the networks of other former students and keep using the carrer office services.
10. Local consulate, culture institute
A tool often neglected by international couples and expats. National culture institute abroad are a hub for activities, courses and initiatives. In addition to the cultural programs that they often organize, they represent a landmark for professionals and business people (both locals and foreigners) who look at it as a gateway to their homeland. I suggest, then, that you keep in touch with your fellow nationals and participate to programs and initiatives.
Have you got any other tips that you want to share with us? What is your experience? How hard was it for you to find a job?
