This post is for those who want to build a career abroad but don’t know where to start. As someone who has observed the process up close—both personally and professionally as an HR specialist—I wanted to compile my insights for you. While I didn’t personally attend interviews with overseas companies when I was in Turkey, I observed the entire process through my husband and helped guide him to the result we wanted with the right steps. In this article, I’ll share the roadmap we followed.
Step 1: Make the Decision
You know the saying, “Starting is half the battle.” In this case, starting means making a clear decision: “I want to continue my career abroad.”
If you like, you can make it even more specific: “I want to work in [specific role] in [specific country].”
For us, our preferred destinations were mostly in Central Europe. For example, since we had no particular interest in French culture or language, we didn’t apply to French-speaking countries.
Step 2: Research Job Listings on LinkedIn
Here’s how this step can help you:
Understand market expectations. By reviewing postings in your target countries, you can analyze what employers expect and tailor your CV accordingly.
Prepare a motivation letter. In some European countries, this is a crucial part of the application. If a job listing mentions it, prepare one in advance and customize it for each company and position.
Know salary ranges. Many European job postings list the minimum annual gross salary for transparency. This gives you a realistic reference point when discussing compensation. Remember: European inflation is low, so don’t overshoot.
Check visa sponsorship. Make sure the company accepts applications from outside the EU if needed. Otherwise, the application becomes pointless.
Use local job boards. Besides LinkedIn, search local career portals like karriere.at for Austria.
Step 3: Craft Your CV
Your CV should be clear, concise, and aligned with the language most commonly used in your target job postings. Avoid long, cluttered resumes.
In your motivation letter, briefly explain why you’re interested in the role or company, what you’ve done in your career so far, and your future goals. Half a page is enough.
Step 4: Apply
Responses may take a few weeks. My advice? Apply even to companies or countries you hadn’t originally considered if your CV matches their needs.
Why? Because in Turkey, very few of us speak English daily at work. Interview practice will make you more confident, fluent, and interview-ready. I’m not talking about your accent—it doesn’t matter. What matters is being able to talk naturally about your work and skills.
The more interviews you do, the better your performance will be. This way, by the time you reach your dream company, you’ll be fully prepared.
Step 5: Ace the Interview
Dress professionally—business casual is best, even for online interviews.
Be confident and stick to your CV.
Expect cultural fit questions—companies may ask why you want to work abroad or how you adapt to different cultures.
Avoid negative comments about your home country. You want to be seen as someone eager to grow and gain international experience—not someone escaping a situation.
Instead, highlight motivations like:
Experiencing a new culture firsthand
Working in an international environment
Developing skills to meet global standards
Before You Make the Leap
Ask yourself:
What is my true focus?
What makes me happy?
Am I prepared for the risks and challenges of living abroad?
Remember—success abroad isn’t guaranteed. You might even find that Turkey leads in certain areas compared to smaller European countries. But if you stay mindful of your goals and adapt with an open mind, the journey itself will be invaluable.