Candidates Wanted with International Experience.

Have you ever come across a job posting and read among the requirements: “International Experience”?

Does it mean they’re looking for someone fluent in a foreign language? Or perhaps someone who can thrive in a multicultural environment?

What does a company seek when they ask for international experience?

1. Language proficiency.Of course, knowing the language is important. But it’s not just about sending emails or having the occasional conversation with an international partner. It means being truly comfortable with the language: not only making yourself understood but also knowing the right tone and level of formality to use with different people to build strong professional relationships—just like you would in your native language.

2. Intercultural sensitivity.Closely tied to language skills, this involves respecting the diverse cultural identities you encounter and adjusting your communication style accordingly. Not everyone who has spent time abroad automatically develops this soft skill, but regular contact with various cultures helps build familiarity at the very least.

3. Adaptability and flexibility.Working in an international environment requires quickly adapting to different scenarios: new ways of working, varying schedules, local regulations, and sometimes habits entirely unlike your own. Learning to navigate these differences while staying focused on objectives makes you an invaluable asset to any multicultural team.

4. Understanding diverse business operations.An international setting gives you the opportunity to experience different approaches to business operations, which vary by country and culture. Each organization has its own way of managing processes, hierarchies, work schedules, and decision-making strategies.

Do you have an international experience to share?

Living abroad for a period is a definite plus (and I’m a huge advocate of it!), but there are many ways to build an international background.

Here are some experiences you might already have—ones that could be further in the past or that you consider less significant:

• Erasmus or study-abroad programs.

• Projects with international teams. Collaborating with colleagues or clients from other countries teaches you to manage time zones, cultural differences, and remote communication.

• Business trips. Attending events, conferences, or work-related travel enriches your cultural and professional toolkit.

• Volunteering abroad. Participating in a mission or international volunteering initiative demonstrates your ability to adapt to new contexts and showcases determination.

• Study trips and certifications. Enrolling in language courses or earning certifications in another language provides a solid foundation for global interactions.

How to highlight this in your CV or interview?

First, include it! Don’t assume anything is self-evident. Every experience tells a part of your story and highlights your unique personality.

When discussing your international experience, don’t just describe the context (“I worked in Germany for six months”). Share what you learned and which skills you developed or enhanced. For example:

• You improved your intercultural communication skills, tailoring your approach to different audiences.

• You learned to navigate differences in schedules and habits.

• You developed creative solutions in a context different from what you were used to.

• You enhanced your problem-solving skills by tackling new and unforeseen challenges in a market with unfamiliar regulations.

• You built a network of relationships from scratch, driven by determination and curiosity.

So, what’s your international experience? 😊

Would you like to turn your desire for international growth into a concrete experience? I have the perfect path for you! Contact me to discover how we can create your next professional chapter together. 🌍