Working Abroad, How To Get Prepared
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Globally, more people than ever are looking for work abroad. It may sound difficult or even impossible at first, but it will give you skills that are considered qualifications in the job market as employers highly value candidates with international experience! So learn everything you need to do:
1. Do careful market research
Take time to learn about the economic and political situation of the country/city you want to go to, as well as its culture and way of life. Examine realistically if you can live in this country. For example, if you are not willing to work long hours a week, it is best not to move to New York. On the other hand in the Middle East, you will work from Saturday to Thursday and your personal life will be different than you may be used to. In most cases, you will need a license to practice or some recognition of your professional qualifications so it will be useful to contact the respective professional associations.
For example, if you are a psychologist you should contact the British Psychological Society, for the case of England, or the American Psychological Association, for the case of America. In most countries, there are professional associations for all kinds of employment, which can also provide a lot of practical information for finding a job. You may need to look at immigration laws and files. You could look at a free immigration consultation lawyer.
2. Use your acquaintances, personal and online
The most effective way to gather information but also to find a job, is to contact acquaintances who have already worked in the country of your interest or in a position similar to the one you want. Networking always helps. So do not hesitate to ask them to help you or refer you to other professionals. Create an effective LinkedIn profile:
Use LinkedIn to ask friends to refer you to their contacts by sharing your profile through the share profile service. LinkedIn also provides visibility into second- and third-rate connections, so ask them to recommend you to friends or friends of friends. The "group" section is very useful since you can become a member of groups that interest you (e.g., "engineers in Canada"). Usually, these groups contain a lot of useful information. Additionally, you can send a message directly to members of the specific group.
3. Prepare properly for all stages of the recruitment process
In some countries (or large multinational companies usually), you may be asked to complete some psychometric or skill tests online, before or after your first interview. Prepare effectively for a first interview (in person or by phone or via Skype), carefully reading the job description you are applying for and preparing examples from your experience that demonstrate your skills, as we pointed out in step 2.
Be prepared to explain why you want to work in a specific company/position/country. In some multinationals and countries such as the UK, you may be asked to participate in rating centers (especially if you are at the beginning of your career). Finally, prepare questions that you might want to ask.