International OutlookInternational OutlookOverseas OptionsAfter several years of study, many graduates feel like a well-earned break. The lure of adventures in distant lands is powerful for Australian and New Zealand students, which is why thousands strap on their backpacks each year and head OS. Gap years The meaning of the term 'gap year' has evolved in recent years to encompass more than the traditional 'year-off' between school and university which it originally referred to. Now, gap year has come to refer to any year-long break – whether taken before, during or after university study – to embark on travel, volunteer or paid work.
Whether you choose to take a gap year – and when – is entirely up to you. Taking a year out before or during your degree can be a good way to give yourself a break and re-energise before the challenges of further study. However, there are also advantages in waiting until you complete your degree. If you are unsure of the direction you want to take career-wise when you graduate, then the year can be well-utilised broadening your horizons and getting in touch with your interests and career inclinations. Working overseas The pros
The cons
If you want to take a gap year when you graduate but are concerned it will affect your chances of being selected for a graduate program, check with individual employers to see what their eligibility policies are. Working holiday schemes Many countries have specific working holiday visas and schemes which allow visitors to work for a certain period of time under certain conditions (ie. work type may be restricted). Each country will have different criteria, but an age bracket is usually specified (most often 18 to 30). The following countries currently offer working holiday visas to eligible applicants from Australia and New Zealand: Belgium; Canada; Chile; Cyprus; Denmark; Estonia; Finland; France; Germany; Hong Kong; Ireland; Italy; Japan; Republic of Korea; Malaysia; Malta; Netherlands; Norway; Sweden; Taiwan; Thailand; Turkey; and United Kingdom. In addition to these countries, Australian citizens are also able to work in New Zealand and there are some limited schemes allowing work in the United States. Check with your careers service or go to www.ccusa.com for more information. Most working visas are provided on a 'once-in-a-lifetime' basis, so it is important to select the time you think will be right for you. You can utilise more than one working holiday visa for a given period, thereby allowing you to plan a round-the-world trip with working stops in various destinations. World at your fingertips… For some useful information about living and working abroad, and specific country visas and opportunities, see the following websites:
Expand your view: 8 great reasons why working overseas can benefit your career 1. The global village In today’s globalised marketplace, employers look favourably on candidates who demonstrate an understanding of global markets and how these influence business strategy, communication, technology and work practices. OS experience broadens your perspective by exposing you to new and different ways of doing things. When working OS remain aware of the fact you are operating in a different market place and stay conscious of how much you can learn each and every day. 2. What’s another word for communication? A glance at a few job ads will reveal that the number one non-technical skill employers are seeking is communication. Irrespective of the job, industry or even the country, communication skills will be a key component of your job description. What better way to showcase your skill in this area than to be able to demonstrate your ability to 'get by' in another country, particularly if it is non-English speaking? 3. Now how do I get out of this one? In today’s dynamic, ever-changing workplace employers want people who can solve complex issues in a resourceful way. Experience living and working in another country inevitably brings with it challenges which call upon career-friendly traits such as resourcefulness, initiative, observation, diplomacy, respect for difference, information gathering skills and belief in oneself. 4. Stretch and be flexible Employers look favourably on candidates who not only demonstrate adaptability in new situations but who actively embrace change. To have worked and/or traveled OS demonstrates that you are a person who seeks change and challenge and that you are not afraid to move out of your comfort zone. They’ll like you already! 5. When in Rome… A global marketplace requires a good understanding of other people and cultures. Language, customs, politics, religion and business etiquette are just some of the areas which can have an impact on global business relationships, which is why employers value people who demonstrate awareness of, and respect for, cultural differences. 6. It’s not what you know… There is no doubt that networks play a huge role in how business gets done around the world. The contacts you develop while working OS are worth maintaining and nurturing, as it is likely you will have opportunities to utilise them as your career progresses. 7. A résumé to die for OS experience will enhance how you look 'on paper' but only if you know how to translate your experience into sellable, demonstrable skills. it is not enough to simply say you have worked OS – you will need to identify the OS derived skills and knowledge you have acquired and demonstrate how it is applicable in the workplace. 8. Great interview stories OS experience can serve to enhance your interview skills because it gives you a huge amount of material to draw on. Interviewing (like résumé reading) can be tedious for interviewers who may see a succession of candidates with similar backgrounds. An interviewee who can draw on examples from OS will give a more interesting interview and is more likely to stand out from the pack.
This article is taken from the 2008 edition of GCA's employer directory Graduate Opportunities
. © 2008 Graduate Careers Australia |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
||||