Applying for jobs overseas

[AB]

Always wondered, when you apply for jobs abroad (for example USA/Canada etc) - how do the first interviews take place. I can't see it being feasible to fly over there with a 1 in 100 chance for example?

However, if there were 100 candidates for the job, and a company would like to interview them face to face, would they appreciate the constraints of you being thousands of miles away and interview you via video call etc?

Does anyone have any direct experience?

[T84]

I'm in Montreal at the moment, telephone interview, and then flown over for final interview.

[AB]

T84 said:

I'm in Montreal at the moment, telephone interview, and then flown over for final interview.

Ah OK thanks - just wonder if they'd want to fly someone over for final interview if they have lots of people already there?

It'd be for a fairly junior role in a whole new industry.

[T84]

What industry? I think unless you have something to offer that they can't get over there then you're out of luck, as I believe they have to prove to the government they couldn't fill the position locally.

Also, they have run out of Visa's for the US until around October

[Pulse]

I had 3 interviews over the phone before them flying me out for my final interview and meeting the team. They don't like it much when they fly you out and you don't accept though! (Or didn't in my case, anyway)

Once you get to the stage of them flying you out, they've already got a good idea that they like you.

[-Ad-]

Sounds interesting, just waiting to hear what industry.

[AB]

Fund management.

[Wanchaiwarrior]

In 2005 when I decided to leave HK, I had 2 phone interviews with my current employer in Brisbane and was offered the job verbally in the 2nd call, then confirmed in writing a few days later. Had to wait 2 months in the UK for a visa mind.

[shirt]

engineering (energy) role, uae.

first interview at a london hotel, very casual over coffee in the foyer. went very well, very good rapport with the hiring manager.

there was supposed to be a 2nd stage in Dubai but they were keen enough to make an offer. I could have pushed for a familiarisation trip but was keen enough not to need it.

this was at the end of jan, I fly out in april.

the whole thing came out of the blue via linkedin. get networking!

[XJSJohn]

shirt said:

the whole thing came out of the blue via linkedin. get networking!

this bit is very true.

[T84]

Yep, Canada job opportunity came via LinkedIn

[DJC]

15min phone interview with a chap in Switzerland. Hired me an hour later. Nothing else.

[shirt]

XJSJohn said:

shirt said:

the whole thing came out of the blue via linkedin. get networking!

this bit is very true.

PH also shouldn't be underestimated for it's usefulness in that respect.

[T84]

Yep, I used to think that the whole story that most jobs were created from networking was a myth, but after having some experience now I realise that it's totally on the money. You have next to know chance by responding to an advert on a careers page/recruitment website.

Company recruiters are another kettle of fish though, I've found them to be fantastic.

[Lostprophet]

I would love to work and move abroad. The first step is tricky.

I am a Cima qualified accountant. Just do not know how to make the move! I work in property funds/asset management.

[v15ben]

I sent off paperwork, had a Skype interview and got the job confirmed verbally a few days later. The visa paperwork was a nightmare, but the app/interview wasn't problematic at all.