Travelling abroad is a wonderful experience, satisfying that internal sense of wanderlust and granting countless opportunities to learn from other cultures. Some people, having gotten a taste of the international lifestyle in brief forays abroad, decide that they’d like to place their futures outside of their home country. If you fall into that category, then you’ll need to choose an appropriate career. There are any number of jobs that can place you outside domestic territory, but these are some of the most common.
Foreign service
When you think of international jobs, ‘diplomat’ often springs to mind. While being an ambassador or something of similar stature is an ambitious plan, the US State Department employs more than 15,000 workers in embassies and diplomatic missions around the world. Many of these employees do indeed work in diplomacy, but many others are engineers, healthcare workers, or computer technicians. This means the foreign service is a great way to work abroad while practising a specific profession.
English teacher
Millions of people around the world are eager to learn English as a second language. This phenomenon has created a massive demand for native-speaking English teachers in a number of countries. With any undergraduate degree and an easy-to-earn teaching certificate, you can land teaching jobs anywhere from Chile to Thailand. The job is easier for natural extroverts, but almost anyone can learn to love it with a little practice. It is also a remarkably rewarding profession, since you know you’re helping people further their careers and achieve their dreams.
Public affairs
The 21st-century has seen globalisation increase beyond the bounds of what was previously thought possible, and countless companies are now global in scope. Any international business is likely to need public affairs specialists on the ground in distant countries, assisting with anything from market research to public relations. Now more than ever, working for a public affairs firm can be a ticket to an international career.
Aid worker
If you’re at all humanitarian minded, then this is the path for you. Non-governmental organisations around the world are in need of passionate, competent workers. Whatever your area of expertise, you are almost certain to have something to offer.
Living abroad is an amazing experience, allowing you to challenge yourself and learn more about the world each and every day. If you dream of life as an expat, choosing these careers is a great way to make your dream a reality.
What work would you recommend if you want to work internationally? Let us know in the comments below.
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