Why working abroad can get you the job

There are very few things that I regret, but one of them is not looking abroad for work when I graduated from university. Having been out of school for a few years now, it’s becoming clear that international work experience would have been a great asset.

So why does international work experience help you to land an Entry Level Job here at home? Here are a few reasons:

1. Make your resume pop: When you are forced to compete with hundreds of applicants for each job, you need to be able to stand out from the crowd. Imagine, as an employer, going through hundreds of resumes, all with similar education and experiences (as you would see with most new graduates). Now imagine coming across a resume with experiences from Europe, Australia, or Japan? You have just been noticed.
2. Diverse Experiences: Along the same lines, having diverse experiences will show an employer that you are more prepared for a position than other applicants. A candidate who has had experiences in a broad range of jobs (usually summer and part time jobs at this point) will show an ability to tackle a diverse set of tasks, a definite plus for any employer looking for a well-rounded member of their team.
3. Personal Growth: Personal growth is another key aspect of international work experience. Not only will this benefit you in the future when it comes to enhancing your career, it sends a strong signal to employers that you are always looking to improve yourself.
4. Taking Risks: Finally, employers love a (calculated) risk taker. It is always a great risk to move outside of your comfort zone for a period of time, especially when you leave home, your friends, and your family behind. Show you can take these risks, and employers will be more likely to take a chance on you in return.

If you get the opportunity to work abroad, take it! It may make the difference in your next job!