How to Find Employment in a New Country?

If you’re ready to fulfill your dream of moving abroad to a new, exotic place, it’s important to remember that your new life will be difficult to sustain without securing a job. Finding a job overseas can be difficult, but the following tips will help you search successfully!

Learn the language

It will certainly be difficult to find work in your new country if you don’t speak the language! Though it may not be necessary to be fluent, it is always considered a valuable skill. At the very least, you should have a working knowledge of the local dialect to effectively communicate with co-workers, customers, and other business associates. Before you move, read language textbooks, or purchase a tutorial program such as Rosetta Stone to get you started. Once you move, you’ll be shocked at how quickly you begin to pick things up if you have even a background in the language beforehand.

Consider transfers

If you already work for a company, there may be internal opportunities open to you to transfer internationally! Speak with your employer or human resources department to find out if there are offices or locations overseas, where they are, and if you would be qualified to transfer. If you are offered a position in another country, make sure to inquire about the possibility of RELO benefits–monetary compensation for moving costs associated with an employment opportunity.

Go online

When looking for a job thousands of miles away, the internet is your greatest resource. Do research to find out more about the job market, and what career fields offer the most lucrative or easily-obtained positions. Post your resume on websites like CareerBuilder, Indeed, Monster, RecruitNet, and Overseas Jobs, and use LinkedIn to network with other expats and find out about available opportunities in your new country before you move. It’s much safer to relocate with employment options (or beter yet, a secured position) than it is to just pack up and go without any prospects!

Go overseas

While the internet is a great tool, sometimes visiting the country is the best way to find a job. If you have the funds, an advance trip to your new country to job hunt, make connections, and possible go on some interviews can be extremely useful. Potential employers will be impressed with your effort and the chance to meet with them personally is a great advantage. You will also get the opportunity to experience the culture and societal norms firsthand, which will make it much easier to assimilate after your move. Don’t forget the benefits of practicing your language skills!

Be open-minded

Remember, finding your dream job overseas may not happen immediately. What’s important is finding employment to pay your bills and sustain your lifestyle once you arrive in your new country. Be open to taking positions in alternative fields or trying something new, even if temporarily. No matter how skill or qualified you are, there is nothing shameful about taking a temporary stint as a waiter or shop worker. It may be easier to secure long-term employment after you relocate, so having a safety net job to fall back on is always a smart idea.