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Getting the chance to intern abroad is a great step in the right direction for your career. Not only do you gain experience but also get the chance to learn and experience different cultures. In today’s competitive job market, building skills abroad gives you an edge when it comes to job hunting. As companies become more globalized, they seek interns and employees who have work experience in foreign environments. In this blog, we will explore the powerful impact international experience has on your resume and how to highlight it.
Why International Experience Matters
- Demonstrates adaptability and flexibility
Living and working abroad pushes you outside your comfort zone requiring you to adapt to a new environment. This may include learning different cultural norms and a new language. Employers value candidates who have demonstrated that they can adapt to change and thrive in unfamiliar settings. It shows that you can adjust to new challenges quickly which is essential in today’s ever-changing workplace.
- Enhances Cross-Cultural Communication
In an international environment, you’re likely to work with people from different cultures. Being able to communicate and collaborate with individuals from various backgrounds is a very marketable skill especially for companies with global teams or clients. Employers see candidates with cross-cultural experience as better equipped to work in diverse teams and build strong relationships.
- Develops Problem-Solving Skills
Living and working abroad comes with various challenges such as dealing with language barriers, unfamiliar work procedures or new technologies. Learning how to navigate these challenges sharpens your problem-solving skills. You learn to think creatively, approach problems from different angles and find effective solutions.
- Shows Initiative & Independence
Taking the risk to work or study in a foreign country shows that you’re self-driven, independent and willing to take on new challenges. Employers value individuals who take the necessary steps to grow their careers and put themselves out there. This initiative to proactively seek opportunities for personal and professional growth abroad sets you apart from other candidates.
- Builds a Global Network
International experience often opens the door to a global network of connections. These connections can be valuable assets, not only for your own career but also for potential employers who may see your global network as a way to expand their business in foreign countries.
How to Highlight International Experience on your Resume
- Dedicate a section for your international internship
Create a section in your resume that solely focuses on your internship or work experience abroad. This distinguishes it from all other elements of your resume. This also draws attention to the particular experiences and shows that it is a core part of your professional journey.
- Include relevant details
Be sure to include relevant details such as position, responsibilities, location and duration. This gives as much context as possible and helps the employer understand how this experience impacted your career and personal development.
- Quantify achievements
Illustrate the outcome of your efforts with numbers and percentages. If your contributions improved the efficiency of a process or improved business operations, be sure to highlight these contributions. This shows employers that your skills are applicable and transferrable.
- Showcase transferrable skills
Ensure to mention all the skills you gained that can be transferred and utilized in different business settings. These skills include resilience, adaptability, critical thinking, problem solving, cross-culture communication and so on.
- Incorporate the international experience into your professional summary
Your professional summary, the brief paragraph at the beginning of your resume is a great place to highlight your international experience. Make sure you tie it to your career goals and the value you bring to an organization.
International experience has the power to elevate your resume and set it apart from other candidates. The skills gained and experience from this opportunity can help you stand out among other candidates. Therefore, do not hesitate to bring light to it as it is an asset that can open several doors in the future. Gain your international experience through Compass Abroad and unlock countless opportunities in your career.
