How can you create a career development plan that includes international experience?

1 Assess your current situation

Before you start looking for international opportunities, you need to evaluate your current situation and identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT). This will help you understand what you have to offer, what you need to improve, what you want to achieve, and what challenges you might face. You can use a SWOT analysis template or create your own. Be honest and specific, and ask for feedback from your manager, mentor, or peers.

2 Research your options

Once you have a clear picture of your current situation, you can start researching your options for international experience. There are many ways to gain global exposure, such as applying for an internal transfer or a global mobility program within your organization, seeking external opportunities with multinational companies, international organizations, or NGOs, enrolling in a study abroad program, an exchange program, or an international internship, volunteering for a social cause or a cultural exchange program, and working remotely for a foreign client or employer. Each option has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, so you need to carefully consider them in relation to your career development plan. Factors to think about include the duration, location, and nature of the opportunity; the skills, knowledge, and competencies required and developed; the impact on your career progression and personal growth; the financial, legal, and cultural implications; and the support and resources available.

3 Set your goals and action steps

Once you have narrowed down your options, you need to set SMART goals and action steps for achieving them. For instance, instead of simply stating "I want to work in Europe", you could set a more specific goal such as "I want to apply for a six-month project management assignment in Germany by the end of the year". Your action steps should include the tasks, deadlines, and resources required to reach your goals. For example, updating your resume and portfolio, learning some basic German, networking with potential contacts and recruiters, applying for relevant opportunities, and preparing for interviews and assessments are all important steps in reaching your goal.

4 Monitor your progress and adjust your plan

As you work on your action steps, you need to monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed. You can use tools such as a career development plan template, a journal, or a dashboard to track your achievements, challenges, and feedback. You should also review your goals and action steps regularly and make changes if necessary. For example, you might need to revise your timeline, explore new options, or seek additional support. Be flexible and adaptable, but also committed and focused.

5 Prepare for the transition and the experience

Once you have secured an international opportunity, you need to prepare for the transition and the experience. You should do some research on the country, culture, and organization you will be working with and learn about their expectations, norms, and values. You should also plan your logistics, such as your visa, travel, accommodation, insurance, and budget. You should also communicate with your manager, colleagues, and family about your plans and expectations and how you will stay in touch. Finally, you should prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for the change and the challenges you might encounter.