Article Title: Expatriate for hire: How to find a job in your new country
Author Byline: Job search tips for English speakers in Sweden
Author Website: http://jobsinstockholm.blogspot.com
Adrianne George is an American expat living in Stockholm. She is the founder of the JobsinStockholm.com job board and authors the JobsinStockholm.com blog: http://jobsinstockholm.blogspot.com .
Whether you are a trailing spouse, have moved abroad to study or are just the adventurous type, finding a job in a foreign country is a special challenge. A challenge, yes! But not impossible.
Talk to strangers
Throw yourself into your local market by joining social groups that match your interests. Not only will you meet likeminded people but you will also start forming your local personal network. Don’t be afraid to let everyone in your network know that you are looking for a job. Be sure to find out how you can help others as well. Pretty soon you will have a support group of contacts to help you with your job search. A good place to find social groups is Meet Up: http://www.meetup.com .
When in Rome
Imitate the locals. How do they format their CV’s (resumes)? What information do they include in their cover letters and CV’s? What salutations doe they use? Some countries require personal information including birth date and marital status. Others require including a photo and personal hobbies. Use the search function on the JobsinStockholm.com blog to find CV and cover letter tips for Sweden.
Check your ego at the door
You were a high flyer at your last company poised for a huge promotion. Or perhaps you just got a graduate degree and want a position you feel you deserve. Check your ego at the door. It is possible that you will be offered a position junior to your previous one. And it is equally likely that you may have to accept lower pay. Remember your goal is to get a job in your new country. You should also be prepared to change careers.
Become an entrepreneur
Flex your expertise or follow your passion and start your own business. You can become a consultant or start your own business. The Internet is an open door. Find a niche audience and fulfill a need. JobsinStockholm.com was born out of necessity.
Don’t be a know it all
Take classes to sharpen your skill set. Make sure you are up to date with the skills that are sought after where you live. Make yourself marketable. And by all means learn the local language. While you may be able to find a job in English you will be seen as a better colleague if you can speak the local language around the water cooler.
Finding a job in a foreign country is difficult but not impossible. Develop and use your personal network. Adapt your CV and cover letter to the local market. Don’t be tempted to turn down a job offer with a lesser title or pay. Consider starting your own business and take classes to hone your skills and learn the local language. In time you will be happily employed.
Article courtesy of the Recruiting Blogswap, a content exchange service sponsored by CollegeRecruiter.com, a leading site for college students looking for internships and recent graduates searching for entry level jobs and other career opportunities.