Be in the right place at the right time
Each country has its own programs for attracting foreign talent. Some are open to foreigners with diplomas, while others are reserved for foreigners in specific sectors or with particular work experience. There are also programs with quotas. These parameters need to be considered when planning a move abroad, especially if you're looking to work in a country with an increasingly competitive job market.
To find your way around, check whether the country you want to move to has a list of skills shortages. Belgium, for example, has a list of occupations that employers are having trouble filling. These range from recruitment specialists to bakers, sales representatives, nurses, mechanics and engineers. Canada, Germany and Hong Kong also have their skills shortage lists. Special programs are also being created to cater to their economic needs. For instance, Hong Kong hopes to intake about 27,000 foreign professionals, with different quotas for different sectors. Some 6,300 workers are needed in the industry and aviation sectors, and 12,000 in construction.
The same goes for Israel, experiencing its worst construction work shortage in 20 years. The country intends to recruit several thousand foreign workers, mainly from India and China. During his visit to India last May, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen signed an agreement with his Indian counterpart to facilitate the arrival of 42,000 Indian workers in Israel, including 34,000 for the construction industry alone. A few weeks later, Eli Cohen traveled to China to recruit some 5,000 workers, again for the construction sector.
Focus on high qualifications and sectors that recruit
Many sectors are currently looking for foreign workers. Healthcare is in crisis in many countries, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic. Construction, logistics, e-commerce, banking, finance and personal care also need workers, not to mention new technologies and the environmental sector. The list of professions is long, with each sector offering a range of possibilities, always with the demand for excellence and high-level degrees.
We're, of course, referring to world-renowned higher education institutions. Some countries are currently reserving special visas for graduates of the world's top universities. This is something to bear in mind when planning your move abroad. But even if you haven't studied at a world-renowned university, having a degree makes the difference. So make sure you complete your course of study. If possible, do some internships and/or study abroad. Keep in mind that internships and studies are not just for the young - on the contrary.
Choosing the right career path
If you're lucky enough already to have a high-level degree in a cutting-edge field, you're well on your way to pave your way in the international labor market. If you're thinking about a career change or where you want to study (abroad?), think about the current and future job market. The growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) is adding competition to an already highly competitive job market. While this can be a stimulus for some, it can be a threat to others who fear for the survival of their professions. While it's unlikely that journalists, web editors, secretaries, accountants, teachers, or artists will lose their jobs overnight, we'll certainly be dealing with AI from now on.
Your experience will make the difference
Sometimes, it's better to postpone a career move for a few months or years until you've gained the experience you need. After all, work experience is scrutinized just as closely as a diploma. Of course, many junior positions are available too, but it all depends on what you're seeking. If the job ad insists on a certain number of years of experience, don't lie about your background. Do not hesitate to apply for a job that's slightly above your qualifications (for example, if they ask for 3 years of experience and you only have 2). In this case, your responsibilities and skills can make all the difference. On the other hand, if 5 to 10 years of experience is required and you're fresh out of school, it's better to wait until you have some experience.
Work experience not only improves your technical skills but also helps you develop your soft skills. Having worked abroad also shows companies that you are open-minded and adaptable. Moreover, work experience goes hand in hand with building your network.
Research and small jobs count
Work experience is not limited to employment. Internships, student work, research, and odd jobs all count. This is especially true for those who feel their resume is "light" due to a lack of work experience. Student jobs are often overlooked. However, they provide information about technical and interpersonal skills. Look for anything in your coursework that is relevant to your target job. If you have written for the local media, presented a study to an institution, moderated a debate, or conducted a scientific experiment, do not hesitate to showcase your accomplishments.
The same goes for your sports and community activities that can speak about your leadership skills (if you've run a club, for example), self-control, stamina, organization, etc. Try to draw from these experiences the qualities needed for your target position.
Don't overlook language skills
We can't stress this enough: learn the language of your host country before you move abroad. In an ultra-competitive job market, language proficiency shows your interest in the country and commitment to assimilating into its culture. Speaking the same language is not only useful for communication, it also creates a common base of norms and values.
People sometimes think that English is enough. Of course, you have to speak English. But we often overestimate the influence of that language. Speaking English is not enough. Speaking your host country's language means you'll have better access to all the job postings in the local language (far more than in English). This will help you integrate and perform better at work.
Write the proper resume for the right recruiter
Don't copy and paste, even if you're applying for the same job at two different companies. Avoid relying on AI to write your resume and cover letter. Take the time to write carefully, and always remember that you're talking to a human being (even if many companies sort applications digitally).
Adapt your job application to the local style. Write in the language of the advertisement; if it's an unsolicited application, write in the language the recruiter understands. In both cases and depending on the job you are applying for, write in the local language and in English. Be careful with job titles. It's sometimes better to use English forms that are more meaningful. Find out how things are done in the country where you will work (e.g., how universities call their courses or how the target company talks about the required diploma).
Rejection is more like a stepping stone to future success
Do not hesitate to ask for feedback on a company's rejection. Even if it never comes, take stock and bounce back. A rejection doesn't necessarily mean you weren't right for the job. Sometimes, it's just a matter of quotas or timing. The company is no longer hiring. These situations can be stressful and come on top of all the logistics involved in moving abroad for work (obtaining a work visa, residence permit, etc.). You may need the services of an expatriation coach and/or an agency specializing in international recruitment. Stay confident and know how to present yourself.
Remember that you're unique
Having a degree, rich experience and/or many successful assignments under your belt is one thing, and showcasing them on a resume is another. It can be challenging to present yourself in the best possible light. It's easy to simply list what you've done on your resume without highlighting what might pique a recruiter's interest. But recruiters don't always go through resumes looking for strengths. Competitive job markets and time constraints go hand in hand. The best resumes are the ones that appeal to the recruiter.
Avoid comparing yourself to others or panicking about quotas. Instead, learn to highlight your qualities. Every candidate is unique, and you are too, and that's what the recruiter needs to feel. This is a great way to stand out in a competitive job market. Of course, the point isn't to embellish your situation but to make the most of your accomplishments and present them in a way that's a natural fit for the job you're seeking. After all, working abroad starts long before you actually move. You're already on local time when you're looking for a job. Think of this time as an additional learning experience. Keep your motivation and goal in mind. These are the keys to a successful international assignment.
Useful links:
Belgium
Hong Kong
Hong Kong Immigration Department: Visas
Germany
Make it in Germany: Skills Shortage List
Canada
