Question:

I am interested in working in a foreign country, but have been unable to find an employer who is willing to hire me for such a position. Some have told me that they are unwilling to sponsor me. Any suggestions?

First Answer:

Let’s be totally honest here. Trying to get a job overseas while in the US is very difficult. There are indeed a few programs, but they’re quite competitive and have long application processes. The other thing you need to appreciate is the mindset of the overseas organization. Think about it – would you hire someone you’d never laid eyes on? And US companies are reluctant to hire specifically for an overseas position because they want you to be interested in their business, not just the overseas assignment.

Okay, that’s the bad news (best getting that out of the way, first). Now let’s move onto the good. A recent study showed that 60 per cent of people getting jobs did so through networking. Hence, if you want to work abroad, go abroad, network like crazy and make corporate contacts in the place where you want to work so that you can take advantage of opportunities as they come up. You’re more likely to get what you want if you demonstrate that you’re prepared to invest in yourself and have a clear idea what solutions you can offer your sponsor. It’s hard to do that unless you know what they are – which means keeping your eyes and ears open ‘on the ground’.

Other than in Europe (where many young people speak better English than the average American) it’s possible to leverage your English-speaking skills into teaching, editing, writing, PR or export sales. Combine that with any other skills you have and the possibilities are endless. There’s a long tradition in Asia, in particular, of Americans just showing up and finding work teaching English then using those contacts and connections to find meaningful work in other business areas.

I’m a great believer in the Nike approach to life. If you’re truly committed to working in a particular country or region and have the right personality to go out and meet people who are interested in what you have to offer, don’t spend any more time wondering how to orchestrate that from several thousand miles away – JUST DO IT! At the very least you’ll learn another language and have valuable overseas experience, which you can then leverage when you return to the US.

-- Liz Simpson, motivational speaker, workshop leader, author, journalist, and forum panelist.

Second Answer:

A great way of working in a foreign country is to volunteer there. Many countries to do not require foreign workers to have work permits unless they are being paid. By volunteering, you are able to get around that requirement. If you work in an agricultural area, many farms or collectives will provide you with free room and board and sometimes even a small allowance. Although you won't be earning money, you also won't be spending any and you can have an incredibly wonderful life experience.

-- Steven Rothberg, President and Founder of CollegeRecruiter.com

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