Graduate jobs abroad..

[Shay HTFC]

Does anyone know how easy it is to get accepted into graduate schemes or entry level jobs in key developing world cities (say Hong Kong, Shanghai, Sao Paulo etc) when applying from Europe?

I'm currently studying a masters degree in Sweden and am wondering what steps to take for when I've finished. The last time I was looking, a few years ago, most of the people I knew working in the types of places I'm interested in seemed to be employed by a UK company who sent them abroad. Getting fresh access into entry level work was somewhat more difficult.

Does anyone have any experience applying for jobs in prominent cities within emerging economies? What steps would you suggest a 24 yr old university leaver (with 1.5 yrs experience in software development at IBM) should take... whats the best way to get a foot in the door?
And what do you guys think about working in these developing economies? Do you enjoy it, or is it a case of trying to make money before returning 'West'?

For what its worth, my qualifications are a BSc in Computer Science (1st) and I'm currently studying for a MSc in Corporate Entrepreneurship.
I also have 1.5yrs experience doing software development at IBM UK.

[rog007]

Head to China; it's becoming the 'must have' on aspiring CE CVs.

[windman2011]

I know somebody who went to Brazil after graduation with an engineering degree (now working for an oil firm out there). Still there and absolutely loves it. I do believe they have a pretty hot economy just now, maybe worth a look and you could be there for the next world cup!!

UK graduate places are at a premium and just getting through the aptitude tests is tough. If I was a grad just now I'd be getting out the UK sharpish.

[rog007]

windman2011 said:

I know somebody who went to Brazil after graduation with an engineering degree (now working for an oil firm out there). Still there and absolutely loves it. I do believe they have a pretty hot economy just now, maybe worth a look...

Brazil, Russia, India and China (the BRIC economies); take your pick! With Turkey, Mexico, Nigeria and Indonesia hot on their heels.

[smashing]

windman2011 said:

I know somebody who went to Brazil after graduation with an engineering degree (now working for an oil firm out there). Still there and absolutely loves it. I do believe they have a pretty hot economy just now, maybe worth a look and you could be there for the next world cup!!

UK graduate places are at a premium and just getting through the aptitude tests is tough. If I was a grad just now I'd be getting out the UK sharpish.

Agreed! I'm building up my experience so I can do this!

[ali_khl]

Quick heads-up - if you want to get a job in China, you won't be able to unless you can show you have two years of relevant work experience after graduating (undergrad). Definitely consider specific requirements like this as since July the Chinese government has come down hard on young foreigners working/ looking to work in big cities like Shanghai and Beijing.