What You Need to Compete in a Global Jobs Market

The world market is more interconnected than ever before. Understanding this and being able to utilize it to your advantage is key to competing in a global job market. You are no longer competing with only someone in your own state, you’re competing with someone across the globe. This means increased competition on an incomparable scale. How do you survive in a world drenched in competition?

Following these tips can help you to succeed in a global job market. 

Update Your Resume and CV

Submitting your resume is the norm for a job application in the United States, but what about in different countries? In Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, a CV is typically requested. Depending on which country you’re applying in, the overall format may change, but its contents will likely remain the same. 

The main difference between a resume in the USA versus a CV in another country is that often a CV requires more personal information which can include but is not limited to nationality, marital status, number of children, and date of birth. A photo is also often required for a CV. 

Sharpen Your Skill Set

Knowing what career you want to go into will help determine what skills will best help to diversify yourself in a global job market. Some general skills that employers look for are the ability to adapt, understanding the global economy that you’ll be a part of, and understanding local nuances including the political climate. Knowing what you’re getting into with the job will help you position yourself in the eyes of potential employers. While local applicants may appear to have the upper hand in this situation, by showing your understanding of these details, you’re positioning yourself right alongside them.

You want to bring value to the position you applied for. Because they will potentially have to sponsor a visa and the costs associated with hiring a foreign worker may be higher, you need to showcase how you not only understand the local nuances, but you’re the best person for the position. If you want to work in marketing, for example, think about how you can show that you understand the market that you’ll be aiming for. Think of skills you would utilize in your career and enhance them. If there are any internationally recognized certifications in your field, that may be a good place to start.

Learn a Foreign Language

Knowing how to speak at least one other language really helps you to stand out in the crowd and, in some instances, may possibly be a requirement. 

One of the most important languages to learn if you want to work in business is Mandarin Chinese. It is the most widely spoken language in the world and, with China being one of the largest world economies, knowing China’s official language will deeply benefit your career. 

Arabic is another language that is beneficial to learn. It is the fourth-most widely spoken language in the world as well as the official language in over 20 countries. It is listed as a critical language for national security. 

While these two languages are important to learn on a global scale, having any other foreign language on your CV will help you to stand apart. 

Obtain a Higher Education

Having a higher education can help to increase your global network, relevant skills, and employability. Universities and colleges are hubs of international education, with students coming from all over the world in order to increase their marketability in their job search. 

Take business courses

Earning a degree in business, such as an online MBA from reputed institutions such as Montclair State University, or taking business-specific courses can help teach you the key skills needed in order to thrive in a global marketplace. A general MBA is a prime example of this. MBAs are respected across the globe for their curriculums and skill development. Through earning an MBA you are positioning yourself to stand out in a global marketplace and will be able to succeed in any position. 

Study or Intern Abroad

Having first-hand experience in another country and experiencing another culture is extremely beneficial when applying to jobs abroad. Because you already have experienced a miniaturized version of it, you may feel more at ease. Studying or interning abroad also appeals to the recruiter or interviewer. Nearly 64% of recruiters say that having international experience is an important career advantage. 

Seek Out International Jobs 

Careers abroad can range from teaching English as a second language in China or Japan, to working for major multinational organizations such as the World Health Organization. Identifying what type of career you want and where you want to be is a key step in seeking out an international job. Then, you can move onto job boards or specific company websites. There are dedicated job boards for individuals looking for jobs on foreign soil. 

Consider Volunteering Abroad

If you aren’t entirely sure if you want to transition to a career in a different country, consider volunteering abroad. You can volunteer on humanitarian aid missions or environmental and conservation missions. It could be a good bouncing-off point if you are interested in potentially switching to a career abroad. 

Increase your international marketability by earning a business degree from Montclair State University. Contact your student recruitment manager today to get started.