5 Reasons to Consider Working Overseas

By: Mona Abdel-Halim

If you’ve considered working in another country, now might not be a bad time to do so, particularly with today’s job market still looking dismal for young professionals. In fact, over the past five years or so, the rate at which Americans are leaving the U.S. has risen sharply. The number of expatriate Americans in 2011 was around 4 million, and the number continues to rise.

Plus, these opportunities to experience new cultures and gain unique work experience will certainly set you apart from your peers in the future.

Check out these reasons to consider heading overseas for your career:

New career opportunities. Whether you currently have a job or are searching for something new, heading overseas is a great way to open up new doors for your professional life. For instance, if you’re already employed, it’s possible that you’ll meet new people within your current organization who could be influential on your future career, and you also might be up for more promotional opportunities because you’re able to stand out more in your new environment.

See the world. As a young professional or recent graduate, it’s likely that you aren’t tied down by a family life just yet. It’s quite difficult to choose to work overseas when you’re concerned with uprooting a family, so if you’re interested in traveling and working abroad, now is a great time to discover new places and people.

Save money. Tax rates and cost of living in many countries is lower than in the U.S., so even if you’re earning less than you would here, you’ll be able to have more disposable income and savings in the end.

Gain independence. Step out of your comfort zone. If you’ve moved back home after graduation, cut the cord from Mom and Dad. You’ll be happy to learn that many expatriate work scenarios provide housing or an allowance, making it even more intriguing to work in another country.

Learn new languages. The exposure to a new culture and other languages is priceless. It’s also a great resume booster and talking point during future career opportunities. You might even become fluent in another language during your experience!

Have you spent time working or living overseas? What has it done for your career?

Mona Abdel-Halim is the co-founder ofResunate.com, the only resume tool used by top business schools worldwide. You can find Mona on Resunate’s Twitter chat (#Resuchat) and onFacebook.