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Ben Irwin said, “Most of us spend our lives as if we have another life in the bank.” Mark Twain echoed that in a way that makes sense for this blog. He said, “Throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Explore. Dream. Discover.” If either of those two quotes speak to you and you’ve contemplated living in a different country and sampling a new culture, here are some tips for landing an international accounting job.
Multinational Company
Want to work overseas? Start by investing at home. One of the best strategies for transitioning to an international role is to work for a multi-national company that does business around the globe. There are a number of benefits to this. You’ll get to see how the company functions in different cultures. You’ll build relationships that might be your bridge to your new life. Likely you’ll get a sense of different reporting standards as well.
If you want to learn about the benefits an international accounting job can offer your career, read this blog.
Rotation on an International Level
When you’re selecting a multinational company to work for consider one that rotates staff through its international offices. This can give you a “try before you buy” experience of a new culture and how you adapt to it – critical to helping you decide if making a more permanent leap makes sense.
School Options
If you’re still testing out your accounting wings, perhaps you want to upgrade your skill set with some additional schooling abroad (MBA anyone?) Of course, always research how transferable your schooling will be should you want to return to Canada. And remember, attending an international program offers you an opportunity to connect with people from all over the world, perhaps opening the door that allows you to land your international accounting job.
Similar Countries
Stay on top of industry trends. You may find accounting jobs and opportunities for your skill set in a different country. For example, when Canada implemented IFRS standards, the demand for UK accountants greatly increased due to their familiarity with IFRS. Perhaps there is a need for your skills in another country. It’s worth doing some research.
For some general notes on finding work abroad read this great article from Forbes.
If you want to work internationally start by identifying a company with an international presence. Try and work for one that rotates its staff through its global offices to gain the widest range of practical experience you can. This will enable you to build relationships and decide whether working internationally on a more permanent basis makes sense for you. Fundamentally, working internationally can lead to incredible personal and professional growth for the right person.
Your Next Step
No one should walk the job search or hiring road alone. At Clarity Recruitment we help others realize their success through a process that marries proprietary technology with unwavering commitment. Contact us today to take control of your career, or to partner with us to hire well.
Clarity Recruitment, connecting exceptional people with remarkable companies.