How to get an overseas internal transfer

Landing that job internationally can be a career defining turn for many people. It comes with its own merits and challenges, but the process to get the job is not that straightforward. It involves meticulous planning which starts months in advance and being all eyes and ears on the next best opportunity. Robert Walters explores two avenues you can utilise to incorporate overseas work into your career. 

Internal opportunities

It’s fairly common that large multinational organisations will seek professionals who can strengthen and develop business units overseas. Many of these firms may also have structured transfer programmes available for people holding long-term service in the firm. If this is something you are looking to consider, make sure you secure a position within a firm which can support you in this and provide you with international opportunities after a number of years’ service.

Additionally, you should be as proactive as possible in your role, ensuring that you position yourself as a reliable and consistent performer. Remember that if you stipulate your intentions early on, then most firms will do what they can, to retain you and provide you with the most appropriate position possible. Typically, most businesses of this kind and size would prefer to retain you within the business rather than lose you to another organisation.

Match your skills

As obvious as it may seem - the best and speediest avenue you can take when looking for a position overseas is to apply directly within the country of your choice.

If companies are seeking international talent, they will often tap into talent pools within established markets when looking for professionals with the exact experience they require.

Key matches such as sector specific experience will often propel your chances even more. Similarly, make sure to narrow your search to the most suitable organisations if you are looking for a greater response rate.