Whether you’re looking for a new job abroad or moving between industries in a foreign country, the job search process is never really an easy one for an expat. In today’s economy, the competition for employment is intense and becomes even more difficult in a foreign country. Resumes seem to disappear into the black hole of recruitment regardless of whether you’re in China, Brazil or the UAE.
Take charge of the situation by applying the following steps to help you overcome obstacles faced during your expat job search.
1. Decide on what you want to do and Research your Targeted Industry
Define your next career move and be clear about the job you want. Are you looking to progress in your current field or do you want to change careers and industries? Once this has been established, commence with researching the related industry.
For example, you might be an expat in Shanghai working in the recruitment of call centre agents, and you’re now looking to become involved in international recruitment. Research the top recruitment companies in Shanghai that specialize in international recruitment and establish what they’re looking for in their staff. Make a list of such companies and start targeting them.
2. Overcome your Fear
Fear is one of the most debilitating aspects of the job search, and it can rob you massively of your sizzle. Work to overcome this. Adopt an attitude of addressing your fears by drawing close the very thing you fear.
For example, you might want to pursue a career in public relations, but you have a fear of speaking up during company meetings or doing presentations. Investigate opportunities to develop your public speaking and communication skills and work to overcome your fear by attending a public speaking seminar or becoming a member of a public speaking group (such as Toastmasters), which are available in many countries.
3. Re-Evaluate your Brand and Identity
Your core values, talents, strength and image all make up your brand and need to fall into alignment and resonate with who you truly are and what you can bring to the world.
Using self-help resources like the exercises in What Colour is Your Parachute can help you identify your core skills and strengths and create a brand that’s authentic to you. This brand needs to be consistent across all platforms (social media, your resume, networking events, etc.).
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