Employment Overseas

This website was created for those living in the United States who long to go overseas, either to study or work, while experiencing other cultures and peoples all over the world.  Those with a passion for other people groups and cultures and those who just want to see the world can benefit greatly from working a job overseas because it allows you to fulfill your dreamed-about travels while making money and experiencing the life of those particular cultures. 

Though many would like to be spontaneous and simply up and leave the States, there are a few important things that require preparation and questions necessary to ask yourself before leaving.  For example, where are you going? When do you plan on leaving, how are you going to get around, how much money do you need, how are you going to get a job, and the list of questions continues. 

The first step everyone must take is making the decision to go and where. You must make your departure date, buy ticket, create an emergency fund, and decide how to carry your money and in what form.  You must also decide how much luggage you will need and recommended for every long-term traveler is to take a sleeping bag, tent, and maps (because you never know).  A good idea before you go is to obtain the Department of Health leaflet T5, which gives health advice for travelers anywhere in the world.  Also, it is advised to join the, which is the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers.

Here a few tips to aid you in your preparation for working abroad:

 Insurance : you will need to decide if you want to take out comprehensive private cover for extras (loss of baggage and emergency repatriation)

 Qualifications : taking documentary evidence, a list of references, and job skills highly increases your chances of getting a job as opposed to someone who takes none of these things

 Language : although most people that choose to go work overseas do not go as a fluent speaker of a particular language of their destination, a limited knowledge of the country's language is valuable.  Ways to achieve this knowledge is through taking classes here in the United States, teaching yourself, and most effectively is living with a family who speaks the language.

Making Contacts : if you are wanting to get a job abroad, knowing people in your desired destination could not be more priceless.  One way to get to know people is through travel clubs, such as Globetrotters Club, Servas International, and for ladies, Women welcome Women.  Other links can be found through friends, family, foreign students, and human rights groups.

Traveling Alone : most travelers can testify that loneliness is hardly an issue.  Quite a bit of company is met by befriending the locals.  For those who are unsure, a short trip might be recommended to test the waters.  Do not let a lack of a traveling buddy keep you from living out your dreams.  Also, women who have had experienced solo travel testify they can enjoy themselves just as much as men.

Getting a Job Before You Go :  if you choose this method as opposed to getting a job upon arrival, writing in advance to ask about prospects is important.  Although most do not have a profession or trade qualification, professional or skilled people have a better chance of prearranging a job (nurses, architects, teachers, etc.) who can answer ads in newspapers or journals. Many who get jobs are students on their way to becoming qualified.  Most of the time, it is not easy to get a job, mainly because many are not going to hire someone they have never met, but the main requirement to getting a job before you go is simply perseverance.   

Getting a Job Upon Arrival : this method requires much initiative.  Easier to find are usually the least appealing jobs, such as casual work in the country, dog meat factory worker, salesman, or pylon painter.  A helpful tip to remember is that keenness and persistence are essential.  Volunteering, hitch-hiking, and especially other travelers all offer valuable sources of information as to what is out there.  Consulting publications, such as reference books and job directories is helpful, though your greatest ally is said to be chance.

*tip: Before making any life-changing decisions, always obtain a written document of your job and terms of employment.

Now you may be asking, so what jobs are out there?  Where could I possibly work overseas?  After much research, I have found that most of the same jobs that are here in America or overseas as well.  Here are some examples:

                                                     

 

For more information check out these sites:

Jobsabroad

Escapeartist