Creating a CV is the first step in living the dream and working abroad. However, few ever go through with it. It’s not because they don’t want to—it’s because they think they need to be fluent in a foreign language. Or, have years of experience at the same job before they can move to another country and get work there. But that isn’t true at all!
If you have enough motivation, dedication, and flexibility, you can easily work abroad even if your language skills aren’t great. Even if you don’t have any formal education or specific experience in that field.
Understand the recruiter
When you’re applying for an expat job abroad, the first thing that recruiters notice is your resume. If you don’t have any experience in their industry or if your skills don’t match up with what they need for the position, then chances are that recruiter is going to pass on over your application. However, this does not mean that you should lie and say you have skills that you don’t.
This is why it’s important to understand who’s going to be reading your resume and tailor it accordingly. For example, if you’re applying for jobs in Germany, then it’s best not to use italics or underlining as this might confuse German readers. In addition, make sure that there are no more than two spaces between lines of text in order to maintain consistency with German formatting standards.
Choose what’s relevant
- It’s always wise to include all of your contact information on your resume. If you’re applying for jobs abroad, though, it’s also important to include the country code and phone number. As well as your plan for moving abroad. For example, if you are set to move in 6 months let them know so they have an idea of when you can start.
- It’s essential that you find out what format the company wants their CVs in before sending yours off. There are various formats that are used across Europe, Asia and America.
- Once you’ve made sure that your CV is in the right format, make sure it follows the company’s style guide when addressing education history, job titles and responsibilities.
Avoid Cultural Mistakes
If you’re looking for work in another country, here are some of the mistakes you could be making:
- Including personal information and photos on your resume. This is frowned upon in many countries and can make it difficult for employers to assess your qualifications objectively.
- Addressing the employer with first name only, which is perceived as being disrespectful and inappropriate in many parts of the world. Instead, use their title or surname when addressing them in your cover letter.
- Using slang words like boss, cool or amazing on your resume/CV without understanding how they may be perceived by potential employers from other cultures.
Finding a law specialist
If you need legal advice or assistance, be sure to contact the experts at RHJ Law. We’re able to guide you through what you need to know before moving abroad.
Our legal team at RHJ Law assists foreign nationals in moving to Malta, Portugal, the United Arab Emirates and also to the USA. Our English speaking team of lawyers, accountants and other experts, specialise in helping entrepreneurs and families to set up, manage and grow their life in another country.
Working with our trusted partners; we can advise you on where to settle and how to go about purchasing a property, obtaining a visa and more.
We look forward to hearing from you soon!
