Nowadays, dual career couples are the norm rather than the exception and this trend is particularly prevalent among internationally mobile couples. While a relocation overseas may have an impact on spouses and partners’ career continuity, it is possible for them to land a job in line with their career goals.
A move abroad can give partners the excuse they need to evaluate their career and an opportunity to reinvent themselves. If professional qualifications aren’t recognised, look at existing skill sets and how they could be applied to the desired role. There are plenty of possibilities to do something new and work flexibly.
One of the main challenges in a new country is understanding the local job market and becoming familiar with the style of the recruitment process. While this can be quite daunting, it is encouraging to know that there is demand for people with international experience. A key factor for a successful job search is having broad networks to call on for meeting people and hearing of opportunities. Not only is it essential to invest time in meeting people, but also to understand how the networking style in the host country may differ to the home country. Never ignore or refuse an invitation, whether it is to go for a drink or attend a local event, as this will provide the chance to meet new people.
In today’s competitive and fast-paced market it is essential that a CV stands out and job seekers should try to sell their international experience as well as their professional expertise and skills to prospective employers. Working with a professional career coach can help to create an impactful CV that will catch the eye of recruiters and employers and lead to an interview. The difference in interview process and time frame of a job search, as well as the salary range, can also come as a surprise. We recommend that job seekers take the time to research their industry, identify the local professional bodies and understand career progression in the new market, so that they have a foundation of local knowledge when they begin searching for a new job. Job searching requires a lot of perseverance and energy, but playing by the local rules will lead to success. Remember, you are more employable if you are already employed so take the first good opportunity that is offered to you even if it is not the ideal job. Moving on to the next job will be quicker and easier. Taking a volunteer position can deliver local experience and often leads to a paid position.
FOCUS is a community for expats by expats. Operating as a non-profit, we are proud to have been providing an award winning support to our members for over 35 years. Our Career Development Programme (CDP) for spouses and partners includes Career Workshops, One-to-One Coaching & Career Seminars and provides all the practical information needed to pursue a career in the UK. The next Introduction to FOCUS CDP is on Wednesday, 1st May 2019. For more information or to register please contact office@focus-info.org; www.focus-info.org