Fresh adventures every day. That’s the dream, right? It could soon be your reality, too, with a job overseas.
Lately, the interest in international jobs has skyrocketed. People are realizing that there’s more to life (and work) than the same old routine. And who can blame them? Why stick to the same old when you could be living your best life elsewhere?
In this article, we’ll be covering everything you need to know about getting a job abroad. We’ll look at which countries have opportunities and what you’ll need to obtain them.
Let’s get started.
Where Can I Work Abroad?
Wondering where you can set your sights on a job abroad? We’ve got you covered! There are many different countries around the globe waiting to welcome you with open arms. Here are some popular destinations that attract many job seekers.
Europe
If you missed out on a chance to backpack around Europe, it’s not too late. You can even get paid to do so. A country like the United Kingdom would be the easiest place to work, especially as there will be no language barriers.
However, job opportunities are often limited to what’s required, and not just everyone can relocate. For example, Denmark has a “positive list” where your job title would need to match the criteria.
But there are also other countries like Portugal that offer visas for international workers. In fact, many Americans have already taken up the offer and relocated.
Asia
The Asian job market is buzzing with opportunities. Countries like Singapore, Japan, and China are known for their booming economies and are often on the radar of ambitious professionals. In some of these countries, there will be a language barrier, but it makes for an authentic experience and a chance to learn. Additionally, many countries also look for native English teachers to come as teachers.
Australia and New Zealand
Down under, you’ll find a unique blend of work and play. Australia and New Zealand are popular choices for those seeking a work-life balance. Plus, their visa systems make it relatively straightforward to apply. Especially their working holiday visas.
The Middle East
If you’re after high-paying gigs and a touch of luxury, countries like the UAE and Qatar might be your calling. The oil and gas industry and finance sectors are just some examples of industries popular with expats. There are also lucrative opportunities in industries like education and technology. For example, in the US, the average salary of an English Teacher is around $82,492, with a starting salary of around $40,000. In the Middle East, an English teacher can earn a starting salary of around $ 5,000, depending on the location.
What About Skills and Experience?
When it comes to landing your dream job abroad, your professional skills and experience can make you an extremely attractive candidate.
However, some countries may have a huge demand for a specific job title or industry. In those cases, experience isn’t always necessary, but your skills and knowledge through formal education are most important. For example, American Curriculum Teachers are always in demand in countries and cities with a large American expat population. Getting a job teaching English abroad is often always in hot demand.
The best thing to do is start by taking a close look at the job descriptions of your dream positions in your desired country. What skills are they looking for? This should give you an idea of how well you match up currently.
Tips for a Successful International Job Search
Searching for a job locally can be hard. Taking it global is a different ballgame. However, here are some tips to ensure you find success:
Be resilient
Job hunting can be tough, especially in a new country. Don’t let rejection get you down. Stay persistent and keep applying. Remember, every “no” gets you one step closer to a “yes.”
Online is the key
The internet is your best friend in the job search. Use job search websites and professional social networks like LinkedIn to find job openings abroad. Spend time researching international companies to determine what opportunities are out there. While it may be tempting to book a ticket and find a job once you get there, it may not always be possible. Instead, start from your home country. It may mean waking up during the night to match other time zones, but it may get you that much closer to finding that dream job.
Look for remote work.
Nowadays, many companies are open to remote employees. If you find that your job title isn’t popular in a destination, then explore the option of working remotely while living in a different country for a few months at a time. Some countries may also offer remote worker visas, which can make this much easier.
Get organized
During your job search, make sure you have job alerts set up for the roles that best suit you. This will ensure you never miss the right opportunities. But more importantly, ensure you have everything figured out about what it takes to start working abroad. Consider tax implications, what type of work visa you need, and the entire visa process.
Networking, Networking, Networking
We can’t stress this enough. Networking is an absolute must in the international job market. You’re not just competing with candidates in your area but the entire world. So the more people you know, the easier it will be to find the right job for you. Attend industry events and reach out to professionals in your field for guidance and mentorship. Additionally, look for a specialized recruitment agency that works specifically in your industry and has links to your ideal country.
Be Open-Minded
Sometimes, the perfect job might come from unexpected places. Be open to opportunities you hadn’t considered before. It may even result in making the decision to become your own boss through freelancing and becoming a digital nomad. Flexibility can lead you to exciting adventures. This is especially true when you arrive in a new country. The local language and country’s culture may come as a shock to you. However, appreciating the differences can make it a far greater experience.
Bottom Line
Getting a job overseas is a fantastic way to explore the world and, in some cases, get paid well in the process. That is probably the ultimate goal for many people. So, it’s always a good idea to understand the value that you offer. The best way to do that? Understanding how much you’re worth. Browse our site to get the average salary for many different roles and then use those salary ranges to judge how well you could be paid in comparison to jobs abroad.