Start early, start early, start early! According to IE alumni, these are by far the three most important rules if, after graduation, you want to land a job that makes you happy. Clearly, happiness is defined individually. But many of us want to explore new industries and some of us want to develop their career in a different country. Both desires come with additional challenges and make rules number one, two and three even more important. Early research is key!
To start your own country analysis, I would like to point you to one of the best helpers available for that purpose. Goinglobal is a freemium website with extensive country-specific content on various matters. Through IE you have unlimited access to its resources.
Some expectation management first: The web design of Goinglobal has significant room for improvement. In your author’s eyes, the website lacks appeal and the structure in which the content is presented is dissatisfactory. But it is still worth it! Using the following link, navigate to ‘Country Guides’ on the top. You will see the list of 30+ supported countries. Choosing one of them, you will be directed to a long list of links. This is what you came for.
The information available differs slightly for each country, but usually includes
- Industry and Employment Trends providing insights to what extent particular profiles are sought after on the job market
- Job Search Resources such as online platforms, newspaper or agencies as well as lists of Top Companies help you find actual positions
- Professional and Social Networking opportunities, as well as Résumé/CV Guidelines and Interviewing advice to help you get a job
- Practical information for your potential relocation including Work Permits and Visas and Financial Considerations
In summary, this provides a large part of the most relevant data required along the process of evaluating, selecting and transitioning into a successful career in a foreign country. In addition to the Country Guides, you will find further tools on Goinglobal. If you plan to move to the United States, you might also want to have a look at the section on H-1B visas – ‘H1B Info’ in the navigation bar on top. But remember to always contrast this information with the one available at the local consulates.
Other than that, with the words of Goinglobal:
‘Expand Your Horizons… Your Career… Your Future’!