How do I get international work experience? How do I start an international career?
Our world has never been more global. The world has become increasingly interconnected, with advances in technology and transportation making it easier for people to move across borders. This increased interconnectedness has a profound impact on many aspects of life, including on our careers.
International experience is an important success factor for your career. Not surprisingly, it is advisable to gain this international exposure as early as possible in your career. But how to best prepare for an international career?
How can you gain international experience?
There are several ways to gain international experience, including:
Studying or working abroad: Studying or working in a foreign country can provide you with an immersive cultural experience, as well as the opportunity to learn a new language, work with different personalities & cultures and develop a global network of contacts.
Develop inter-cultural sensitivity skills or sign up for Cross-Cultural Awareness Programmes and other multicultural team work trainings. There are many online programs that allow you to engage with people from around the world, including online language exchanges, virtual internships, and online courses.
Volunteer work: Participating in a volunteer program such as the UN Volunteers can provide you with the opportunity to make a positive impact on a community, as well as to gain a deeper understanding of a different culture.
Travel: Traveling to foreign countries can be a great way to gain exposure to different cultures and perspectives, as well as to broaden your horizons and build your understanding of the world.
International internships: Many organizations offer international paid or unpaid internships that allow you to gain professional experience while living in a foreign country.
Participating in international events: Attending international conferences, workshops, and events can provide you with the opportunity to network with people from around the world and to learn about different cultures and perspectives.
By pursuing these opportunities, you can gain valuable international experience that can help you stand out in the job market and make a positive impact in a rapidly changing and increasingly global world.
Getting exposed to different cultures, countries, markets and ways of life is of crucial importance for a successful international career in our today’s world.
Related questions & more insights on:
How do I start an international career?
What is considered as international experience?
Is it good to have international experience?
How do you put international experience on a resume?
How do I get international exposure?
What does it mean to have international exposure?
How do you put international experience on a resume?
What is the benefit of international experience?
How do I get work experience with no experience?
How do I get international work experience?
Curious to learn more? Looking for ways to kickstart your international career? We share the best cover letter tips and structure for 2023! Learn how to craft a cover letter that stands out with UCCs 20 page Illustrated guide of cover letter tips
The United Career Coalition aims to share knowledge, insights, tips & advice from those that have applied, interviewed and secured United Nations system roles!
Want to learn more on how to spot relevant skills and competencies in a U.N. system vacancy or the best method to convey your skills in a cover letter? Get in touch with one of our UN insiders or download UCC’s 45min cover letter webinar with tips and advice from U.N. insiders!
Join those who have already signed up for the United Career Coalition Youtube Channel and never miss FREE U.N. insider advice or the latest international career updates.