It’s never easy applying for a new job, it’s always time-consuming, nerve-wrecking and often a complex process. Applying for an international job needs even more preparation and research.
We take a look at some of the considerations when making an international job application. One of the first considerations is to decide which country you want to work in. This issue requires careful consideration, for example, research cultural differences, check out visa requirements, make a list of appropriate companies in the country, research specific skills needed and knowledge of languages required.
The majority of job offers start with a good application, that includes a cover letter, resume or CV and a successful interview.
Here we look at the initial application.
The Difference Between a Resume and a CV
Sometimes the term resume and CV (Curriculum Vitae) is interchangeable, for example, typically in the U.S. America it’s usually referred to as a resume. However in many parts of the world, a resume is more commonly called a CV. There is a difference between the two, but in general the term CV is found in countries where ‘British English’ is used, as well as Europe and Asia.
The technical difference between a CV and a resume is typically that a resume is much shorter than a CV -only one or two pages long, and contains the most relevant information regarding skills and achievements relevant to the application. A CV is longer, and could be a number of pages to convey career, experience, interests and background.
Start with the Basics
Ensure you include all your contact details with the correct country codes and maybe mention the time difference.
Include, e mail and physical address as well as phone numbers.
Include personal details as required, which may include date of birth, age, gender, marital status, number of children and education and professional qualifications.
What to Include in a Resume or CV
A resume or CV is a summary of your education, skills and previous work experience everywhere in the world. However, some countries and companies may have their specifics when it comes to writing style, formatting or information provided in a resume, which you need to establish and adhere to. In summary include:
- A short career objective or a summary on your resume
- What you think you excel at and why you care about your profession
- Be specific when describing your education
- List and describe interesting projects you were part of and greatest academic achievements
- Focus on traits that would make you a good candidate to work in an international environment
- Emphasise why you are ideal for the company and specifically the job
Are application guidelines provided
Find out if there are any specific guidelines provided by the company. For example they may stipulate the length of the resume or they may ask for a separate cover letter or references. If the company asks for only the list of your relevant experience, then only detail your relevant experience.
Customize the application
Always tailor your application specifically to the country, the job, and the company applying for. Be selective and pick only the best and most relevant information for your CV, resume or cover letter.
Do your research, write and edit to make specifically relevant for the country, the company and the job.
Which Language
The application should be made in the language the job ad is in, or the job specifies. Be honest about your language skills as they will be tested.
Research the Company and the Interviewer
It’s essential to research the company you’re applying to make your international resume demonstrate you’re very familiar with their work and that’s why you want to work with them.
It’s also important to research the specific person you’re applying to.
Country vs. company specific resume
First establish if the job application process requires a country-specific or a company-specific resume. This may entail distinguishing between an international company in a foreign country and a local company based in that country.
Large multinational organizations usually have their own application and resume standards that are set according to the company’s country of origin.
Research the company and the position before writing a resume because the company itself might be international, but the local branch may require a more tailored country specific application.
Usually for an international application the resume may require some emphasis on personality and interests as well as knowledge and skills. The recruiter will be interested in your adaptability to the international environment.
Do you add a photo
Check the application guidelines if a photo is required. There are different rules in different countries as well as major organisations regarding the use of photos in the recruitment process.
If one is required, usually a passport style photo is appropriate.
Style
There are a number of global best practices that can apply in most places in the world. Here are a few tips:
- Follow instructions, if provided
- Keep your resume/CV to two pages unless instructed otherwise
- Provide current contact details, including phone number, email address, and location
- List languages that you’re proficient in
- Higher education and professional qualifications, for example, name of degree and institution.
- Concise bullet-points detailing work achievements and responsibilities
- A professional font and layout.
- Keep the resume/CV simple
A summary
In the summary aim to convince the recruiter that you`re a perfect fit for the company and that you`re able to bring what they are looking for to the company.
Keep it brief, only 2-3 sentences.
The cover letter
Remember a brief to the point cover letter that expresses your wish to apply for the job.
Remember to check your social media
Recruiters do check applicants social media, so always ensure your social media portrays what you want it to show.
