Making the best of your overseas experience People who work for a short or long period of their career abroad may find that this professional – and personal — experience is particularly valuable to future employers – when and if they decide to return to their home countries. In many cases, an overseas experience sets a job applicant apart – positively or negatively because the person has likely gained exposure to different systems, structure and work procedures. With that in mind, people who have worked abroad and planning to pursue a job in the local market, must make sure that their overseas experience is seen a good credential that is in itself a proof of better capabilities and skills. To make this impression with future employers, it is important to look into the factors that employers will be looking for in job responsibilities and accomplishments, and to play these factors up in resume, cover letters and interviews. In the meantime it is important to avoid appearing as someone who lost touch with the local market, requirements, standards, etc. In the first job interview after a long absence, a jobseeker must be prepared to answer questions not only about the previous job scope but also about the overall experience, industry requirements in that other country and even about the reasons for returning, quitting or being laid off. All of these points – that are question marks for a prospective employer – will determine how easy it will be for the person will be able to get a job that fits the professional experience that was gained abroad and that is a step forward career wise. It is important to ensure that your curriculum vitae clearly mention the locations of the companies or organizations you worked for previously. Don’t assume that a future employer will just be able to figure it out. In addition, add a clear statement on the size, status and standing of each employer. For example, if you mentioned that you worked for XYZ Company, add a line that states, for instance, that it is the third largest biotech company in the country, etc. Double check your facts, however. When you come to explaining your experience, avoid local jargon that might not make a lot of sense for an employer in a different market. In particular, try to translate standards and certifications into their equivalent in the local market or mention your familiarity with the differences. Imply your survival skills Many employers may view an overseas job experience positively in terms of the applicant’s ability to survive and thrive in a new and not-too-predictable situation. Try to play up this concept in your resume, cover letter and interview. Explain how you dealt smoothly with the transition professionally and personally. In addition, try to focus on your exposure to a different setting and your ability to hit the ground running for day one. Of course, it depends on the job, but many employers will be happy to hear about your ability to work in a multicultural environment, adaptability skills and efficient integration in a new place. Matter of validation Obviously, having worked overseas immediately gives you a good standing in terms of that your skills seem to have been validated by an employer who was willing to invest in relocating you to a different country and taking chances on you. What you will need to do is to make sure that this validation is confirmed with a good record with your overseas employer or employers. Make sure you offer references or written letters of recommendation from employers you worked for abroad. By doing so, you will be able to make the best impression possible with future employers. Note, always keep your references aware of your plans so that they are prepared if they receive a call from a prospective employer.
Posted on: Sun, 25 Aug 2013 07:30:04 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015