How to Write a Resume with International Experience

In today's globalized economy, international experience is highly valued by employers as it showcases a range of critical skills including cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and a global mindset. As a job seeker, including your international experiences on your resume is a smart move that can set you apart from the competition. Here's how to effectively present your international experience on your resume.

Understand the Value of International Experience

Employers often seek candidates who can demonstrate they are culturally fluent, independent thinkers, and capable of thriving in diverse environments. International experience may include study abroad programs, volunteer work, international internships, or employment with multinational companies. Each of these experiences can contribute to your professional development.

Customize Your Resume for the Job

Before you begin drafting your resume, investigate the specific needs of the positions you're applying for. Tailor your resume to highlight international experience that is most relevant to the job. Consider the country where the company is based and any international work that may be involved in the role.

Incorporate International Experience in the Professional Experience Section

List your international work experience in the professional experience section just like any other job. Be sure to include the name of the organization, your job title, the location (city, country), and the dates of employment. Beneath each role, describe your responsibilities, achievements, and any specific projects that are particularly noteworthy.

For example:

• International Sales Manager, TechSolutions Inc. | Berlin, Germany | January 2019 - Present
• Spearheaded the launch of a new product line in three European countries, resulting in a 20% increase in regional sales.
• Collaborated with international marketing teams to align global branding strategies.

Emphasize Skills and Achievements

Alongside your roles and responsibilities, highlight the skills you developed while working abroad. These might include language proficiency, problem-solving in unfamiliar situations, and successfully navigating cultural differences in business practices. Showcase any significant achievements such as negotiating international deals, managing diverse teams, or increasing market share in international markets.

Highlight Language Skills

If you've acquired or improved your language skills while working abroad, be sure to include this in a separate 'Languages' section. State your proficiency level to give employers an accurate understanding of your capability.

Focus on Education

If your international experience was through education, include this in your education section. Alongside your degree, mention any international courses or exchange programs you participated in, discussing the relevant coursework and skills gained.

Use International Formats Wisely

Be mindful of the resume format that is customary in the country of your target job. Certain countries may prefer a CV-style format over a resume, or may expect additional personal information such as a photo. Research standard practices in the country and adapt your resume accordingly.

Demonstrate Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness

Use your resume to show that you not only have the skills but also the cultural awareness to work effectively in an international setting. This may involve drawing attention to activities or projects where you actively engaged with diverse cultures.

Include International References

Having references from international employers can be highly impressive to potential employers as they suggest a degree of global competence. Always ask permission from your referees before including their contact details on your resume.

Use a Cover Letter to Your Advantage

Your cover letter is a great place to elaborate on your international experience. Use it to tell a story about what you've learned, how it's shaped your professional perspective, and why it makes you an ideal candidate for the position.

Proofread and Get Feedback

Ensure your resume is free from errors by proofreading it thoroughly. Additionally, consider getting feedback from professionals who are familiar with international hiring practices.

International experience can be a golden ticket in today's competitive job market, but it's important to present it effectively. By incorporating these strategies into your resume, you'll be able to confidently demonstrate the value of your global experiences to prospective employers.