How a stay abroad helps your career

Employers are increasingly looking for employees who not only have professional qualifications but also possess social and intercultural skills. This is why international experience and soft skills are becoming decisive factors in standing out from the competition. But how can a semester abroad or a stay overseas improve your career? We show you 9 ways to turn your stay abroad into a real career booster. 

Maximizing the Full Potential of Your Stay Abroad

Before you decide where to complete your stint abroad, strategic planning is worthwhile. Consider what goals you want to achieve: Do you want to acquire new language skills, expand your subject-specific knowledge, or establish an international network? Research thoroughly about the courses and opportunities at prospective host universities or regions abroad and consider which experiences might be helpful for your personal and professional development.   

9 Ways to Use an Overseas Stay as a Career Booster

Deepen Language Skills

The ability to communicate in another language makes you a more attractive candidate. For instance, if you can give presentations or hold conversations in foreign languages, it improves your chances of working in interregional or international contexts later. Improved language skills are not only useful but also a clear indication of your adaptability. 

Expand Subject-Specific Knowledge

Attend courses that may not be available in your home country, such as Asian business practices in China or environmental technology in Scandinavia. These in-depth studies not only demonstrate your interest in your field but also your willingness to develop further and think outside the box. 

Strengthen Independence and Adaptability

If you are confronted with unexpected challenges during your daily life abroad, it boosts your ability to work independently and adapt to new situations. These competencies are highly valued by employers as they demonstrate your problem-solving skills and resilience. 

Build an International Network

Seize opportunities like networking events or professional conferences at your host university or new city to make connections. These contacts can later open doors for job offers or business partnerships. It shows that you are communicative and not afraid to approach new people.

Foster Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills

During a semester abroad, you often face unfamiliar situations that call for creative solutions. Whether it's completing projects under time pressure in unfamiliar surroundings or getting to grips with new academic approaches – these challenges sharpen your ability to think quickly and find innovative ways to solve problems. 

Looking for a new job? Save time with these tools! 

Learn New Teaching and Work Methods

Different countries have different approaches to knowledge transfer and ways of working. By adapting these methods, you broaden your horizons and demonstrate your flexibility in dealing with new solutions. Such experiences enrich your working style in the long term. 

Develop Intercultural Competence

Working in multinational project teams teaches you to understand and deal with cultural differences respectfully. This sharpens your empathy and improves your teamwork skills, which is invaluable in today's work environment.   

Improve Time Management and Prioritization

During a stay abroad, you are often faced with new and diverse commitments – from academic or professional demands to social activities and new everyday tasks. This diversity challenges you to optimize your time management and set priorities. This skill is crucial for professional success because it shows that you can work effectively while maintaining a high level of productivity. 

Gain Global Perspectives

Discussions with international fellow students on topics like environmental issues or social justice help you better understand global connections. These conversations foster your critical thinking and your ability to argue from different perspectives – important soft skills for any career.

Conclusion

Use your experiences abroad to enhance your resume and advance your career. Emphasize the soft skills you acquired during your stay: flexibility, independence, communication strength, and intercultural competence. These abilities set you apart from the competition and make you a sought-after candidate. 

Find more tips for your career here.