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International Job Searching Methods
by Mary A. Schumacher
Looking for a job abroad but need to know how to start? The methods described below are the best known international job searching tactics.
Be sure to keep in mind that there is no magic wand for finding international employment. Like any job search, you will need initiative, persistence and a clear sense of your career goals. You will also need a resume or CV that relates to these goals. Once you are ready to charge forward, realize that your job search also depends on a number of factors, such as the economic situation in your target country, the demand for your skills and experience, and intangibles such as how you and an interviewer get along.
Direct Marketing
You know you want to work abroad, and you know in which country. Your first step is to research companies operating there. The Web makes this research easy, no matter where in the world you are. See the sidebar for company research resources. Find the companies whose activities match your skill set best. Prioritize the list.
Now, it's time for direct marketing. Do your best to find out who is in charge of the department or organization where you would like to work. Send targeted cover letters and your resume/CV. If you are not able to find out who is in charge of a department, you will have to resort to approaching the human resource department for a position.
Broadcast Networking
When you embark on your international job search, tell everyone you know about your career goals. Send emails to former co-workers, friends, teachers, professional contacts. Include your resume or CV and ask everyone for suggestions. Also contact appropriate people in your target country, such as staff in chambers of commerce or business schools, to get contacts in companies or organizations.
Informational Interviewing
If you are already in your target country, another tactic is to arrange informational interviews. Using your research or networking leads, ask people in companies or organizations for an interview, making it clear that while you are looking for employment, you are more interested in finding out about the types of positions available and which ones would fit your skills and experience. In this case, you are really the interviewer. Once you have explained your career goals to your interviewees, you can ask them if they know anyone whom you could contact.
Using a Recruiter or Employment Agency
Anyone who has posted a resume or CV on a job Web site has likely received emails from an employment agency or a recruiter. It is important to distinguish between recruiting firms and agencies that can help you meet your career goals, and those that are simply trying to add to their resume base.
Realize that recruiting firms work for the employer, not for the potential candidate. Although recruiters might be interested in finding out about you, they might not have a position available that meets your goals. There are also two types of recruiting firms. Firms that work on a retainer basis usually recruit senior executives, while firms that work on a contingency basis recruit everyone else. Some are reputable and some will only waste your time. Make sure you know which type you are dealing with.
Final Words
Usually, it can take time to find an international job. So, if you discover that your skill set is not in demand, think about retraining yourself.
Above all, be persistent. Don't just passively send out resumes or CVs and wait for a response. Follow up your mailings with polite emails or telephone calls, about once a week.
You can also think about an alternative to being an employee. Some people go abroad and find work for themselves as consultants, writers, teachers or some other profession. You will have to decide if this option is suitable for you.
