So you have finally decided to make the big move overseas. Finding a secretarial job outside of your home country can be difficult. Here are a few tips on how.

3. So you have finally decided to
make the big move overseas.
At this point, you need to realise that
finding a secretarial job outside of your
home country can be difficult.
So let’s jump right into it:

4. Tip 1: Commit fully to the idea
of moving abroad:
If you are interested in moving overseas, then you have
to commit fully to the idea first, before making any
other plans. Do not stress over opportunities that you
might miss in your home country. Just embrace the
experience fully and know that you will be learning and
experiencing new things all the time.

5. Tip 2: Move to places where
you are comfortable speaking
the language:
Language skills are important when working abroad –
especially when you’re working in an administrative role that
involves plenty of human interaction. So be sure to apply for
secretarial jobs in countries (and regions) that speak a
language you are fluent in. For example, if you are thinking of
moving to Canada, you have to note that some regions are
English-speaking while others are French-speaking.

6. Tip 3: Do proper research:
Take the time to do thorough research about
companies and various job offers before accepting
any job offers. Make sure that:
• The company you decide to work for is within reasonable
travelling distance from your new home
• You research everything about the company and decide
whether you will enjoy the company culture or not
• You will be able to support the company’s goals and vision
• Even when you are not working, you will enjoy being in that
country
NB
It's important to look at the average salaries, as well as the
average cost of living, in the country you're considering
moving to. Also, make sure you research the labour laws
within that country. This will not only help you plan your
move and prepare you for your new environment, but it will
also help you avoid unpleasant surprises.

7. Tip 4: Check visa and work
permit requirements:
Understanding the requirements for working in other
countries is essential. Some countries, like China, are
extremely strict when it comes to applying for work permits
and will only accept applicants with a university degree. So
make sure that you have everything you need before
applying for jobs or looking for a place to stay.

8. Tip 5: Show evidence of your
education or willingness to learn
Your level of experience, expertise, and education in the
secretarial field will determine the jobs you can apply for.
Consider supplementing your secretarial
knowledge/skills/qualifications with other relevant
skills/knowledge/qualifications that will set you apart from
other candidates (e.g. project management,
multilingualism.) Showing off your eagerness to learn new
things is always advantageous when applying for a job.

9. Are you aware of the daily
activities you will be
performing as a secretary?
As a secretary, you should be able to:
Type out letters and
other documentation
Manage
documentation and
filing systems
Print and copy
documents
Take minutes of
meetings
Schedule
appointments
Answer phone calls
and respond to
e-mails

10. If you would like to upgrade your
secretarial skills and
qualifications, you can register
for a distance learning course and
study while you are getting ready
to live and work abroad.