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Working in Europe

Submitted by gill.whiteman on Thu, 08/06/2009 - 14:38
With barriers melting away there are more and more opportunities to work in Europe. Whether you want to progress your career or try something new, you'll find an opportunity in Europe.

For many people working abroad seems like the ideal career move. For some it is a professional goal; for others it’s an adventure or the next natural step in their career. Whatever your motivations and interests, Europe has something to offer everyone.

Europe – the facts
The European Union (EU) comprises 27 member states and is the largest political and economic entity by area. The EU has the world’s largest economy with an estimated nominal GDP of 14.2 trillion USD (2006) accounting for 35 per cent of the world’s GDP. Source: Wikipedia

What Europe can offer

Europeans have access to incredible professional and social opportunities that no other continent can match. In recent years it has become a more favoured option than the US: cross-border working opportunities, good climates, flexible working conditions, a high standard of living, fantastic cities and ease of integration being just some of the reasons why potential employees prefer Europe.

Mobility across Europe

The enlargement of the EU in May 2004 provided even more opportunities for social and professional mobility. The EU Commission voted 2006 the year of the mobile worker – an initiative to overcome obstacles and increase the mobility of workers in the EU. International investment, outsourcing and technological wizardry have helped foster the growing culture of social and professional mobility while shaping the modern commercial world.

Language skills are essential

Language skills are undoubtedly important for an international career and English on its own is no longer enough. To make a successful move and fully integrate you need to either speak a second European language, or be prepared to learn to a good basic standard quickly.

Using your university experiences

The route to an international career does not start at the end of your studies but at the beginning. Use your university years to dive into all things international, whether opting to study a new language, working or travelling abroad for a period of time or arranging a work placement with an international company.

It’s important to gain experience of the international employment scene and also of different cultures and working practices in a cross-culture working environment. More companies expect their international recruits to have already studied abroad or completed a work placement in another country.

Building your international work portfolio

Finding work in your home country can prove difficult at the best of times and finding work within Europe can be equally tricky. International entry-level and experienced hire positions do exist – the international job search just requires a bit more time, effort and preparation in order to succeed. You will need to demonstrate your interest and commitment to working within a particular country or countries.

Quick links to get started on European career planning

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