Studying abroad is a pricey affair, but by working together you can keep your day-to-day expenses well balanced. All you need is a little planning and the right way to approach your potential employers. Here’s a head start:
1. Plan ahead
List the type of job you’re looking for and the companies you want to apply to. This gives a clear picture of the workflow you are targeting.
2. Optimize your online search
Learn to search well online. There are many job search and networking websites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, AngelList, Seek, etc. that you can use for free and find a good job.
3. Don’t use generic resume formats
Try creating a personalized resume format to stand out from the other applicants. If applicable, be sure to mention your strengths, skills and experience to add more weight to the application.
4. Apply directly online
Large organizations employ many part-time and temporary staff for a variety of functions. You can find out more about the vacancies on their official websites under the ‘careers’, ‘jobs’ or ’employment’ section. Some companies also list these opportunities under their ‘about us’ or ‘news’ tab.
5. Be wary
It’s a smart move to keep an eye out for local companies in your host country that hire casuals during breaks. These can be fast food restaurants, department stores, shops and even cafes.
Bonus tip
Don’t limit your job opportunities based on your degree or location. It is wise to keep an open mind for other places to recruit skilled international workers like you. Feel free to apply for jobs outside of our field if you find it interesting or passionate about it.
6. Follow up with companies
Don’t wait weeks for employers to respond. Try to follow up on every application sent with a phone call or an email; but don’t go overboard to harass a potential employer.
7. Get help from your university’s career center
Contact your university’s career support center for assistance. The staff has knowledge of various job openings, job fairs and skills building workshops that can serve you well. Some centers also offer resume creation assistance, in addition to guidance every step of the way.
8. Socializing, it always helps
Start building your network early in your studies, as this can be very useful when looking for work. A nice head start is joining different communities and participating in meetups to network and meet more people.
9. Build ‘you’ as a brand
A good online presence is crucial for employers these days. Make sure all your social profiles radiate professionalism. If possible, try to blog about topics from your field to show to potential employers.
10. Start early, get a job before the semester is over
It is wise to look for a job before the end of your semester. This allows you to save the waiting time and have a job before you even finish your studies or start the session break.
| Points to keep in mind |
| Check your working conditions visa to be clear about the number of hours you are allowed to work in the new country. |
| If you work together, figure out how to balance your studies so the grades aren’t affected. |
| Know your labor rights. Research the minimum wages in your new country and make sure you are aware of workers’ rights. This may include information about leave, breaks, health and safety. |
| Many employers prefer students who are active in extracurricular activities and demonstrate leadership experience. Don’t set unrealistic expectations. A few initial setbacks are common. Try to be practical and focus on getting a better job than any other job. |
| Take all job interviews seriously. Try to be as professional as possible, even if it’s just for an internship. Before you go to the interview, do some reading about the company to have a background of what you’re getting into. |
Today’s employers also look for candidates with excellent interpersonal skills who can easily thrive in organizations. These skills can be easily acquired with practice and will go a long way toward landing you a great job. Develop some of the most crucial soft skills.