Here are the current employment outlooks for three of the world’s major countries – and favorite spots for expats: Germany, Canada, and Japan. They will provide snapshots of what’s happening in many jobs sectors in these parts of the world, shining a light on what’s happening globally now and into the future.

Germany

Germany’s employment outlook is not so bright, with more than a third of companies planning to cut jobs this year. But despite companies continuing to reduce their workforce, according to the ifo Institute (Leibniz Institute for Economic Research at the University of Munich), the pace of job cuts seems to be slowing down. It is, however, too early to talk of a turning point in the labor market, as uncertainty is still widespread and increasing.

The unemployment rate is at its highest level since the pandemic, and employers across all sectors are concerned about the current situation. This year, most job vacancies are expected to be in the following sectors: sales and marketing, engineering and health care. Green energy, IT, digital marketing and engineering also have many openings.

Areas of Job Promise

1. Engineering: Engineers are highly sought after in the country across various sectors. In particularly high demand are engineers in the field of R&D. Other sectors looking for talents include construction and architecture, automation, renewable energies and AI.
2. Finance and fintech: Germany’s finance sector is being reshaped by the growing adoption of fintech solutions. The sector is one of the fastest growing, with digital banking, blockchain, cryptocurrencies and online payment platforms transforming how financial services are delivered. As a major financial hub, Germany hosts institutions like the Deutsche Bank and vibrant fintech startup scenes in cities like Berlin and Frankfurt. Demand is high for risk analysts, compliance experts, blockchain engineers and fintech developers.
3. Green energy: The country’s green energy sector is expanding, as Germany tries to achieve its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. Within the next five years, the plan is to generate 80% of the national electricity from renewable sources. As a result, demand for green energy professionals is expected to increase by 15% annually. Roles like solar, wind, hydrogen, energy-efficient construction and sustainable urban planning are on the rise. Talents that can guide governments and companies on how to reduce their carbon footprints and those with experience in sustainability consulting, green technologies and environmental science are highly sought after this year.
4. Health Care: The health care sector is undergoing a significant digital transformation, with AI-driven diagnostics, telemedicine and digital health records reshaping how care is delivered. The aging population and rising demand for health care services is also driving the industry’s growth. The digital transformation is fueling demand for professionals with experience in home care, geriatrics and digital health technologies. Roles in demand include those that combine medical knowledge with IT and data skills – such as health care IT specialists and telemedicine experts. To work in this sector, foreign professionals need to speak German and meet the requirements outlined by the Ministry of Health.
5. ICT: Germany’s IT sector remains a key driver of job growth, fueled by digitalization and emerging technologies like AI, cybersecurity and machine learning. There are going to be an estimated 700,000 IT job vacancies by the end of this year. Software developers, cloud specialists and data scientists are particularly in demand. Sought-after skills include programming and cloud platforms knowledge. Main tech hubs in the country are Munich, Berlin and Hamburg.
6. Sales and marketing: As companies prioritize digital channels, the sales, marketing and e-commerce sectors remain a key driver of the economy this year. These sectors’ growth is fueling demand for digital marketing specialists, social media managers, SEO/SEM experts and content creators who can enhance online visibility and engagement. E-commerce managers and sales experts with knowledge of international markets are also in high demand. Businesses are looking for digital advertising, influencer marketing and customer analytics skills.

Overall, according to the government, the following professions are in demand across the country:

• Nursing professionals
• Medical professionals
• Engineers
• IT specialists
• Scientists
• Craftspeople
• ‘Green Jobs’
• Professionals working in the transport sector
• Education
• Hospitality and catering professionals

Professions that Need Skilled Workers in Germany:

• Health and social care professionals (doctors, nurses, midwives, etc.)
• Architects, planners, surveyors and designers
• Education
• Construction
• Manufacturing, mining
• Science and engineering professionals
• Life sciences professionals
• Distribution managers
• Information and communications technology service managers

Canada

Canada’s labor market is seeing a slight upturn. Its relatively high unemployment rate of 6.6% has been dropping slightly over the past few months. The unemployment rate is skewed by a very high youth unemployment rate of 14% (workers aged 15-24).

The Top 15 Most In-Demand Jobs in Canada

• IT Developers
• Registered Nurses
• Construction Project Managers
• Warehouse Workers
• Welders
• Drivers
• Digital Marketing Coordinators
• Customer Service Representatives
• Human Resources Managers
• Accounting Technicians/Bookkeepers
• Mechanical Engineers
• Business Analysts
• Production Supervisors
• Administrative Assistants
• Sales Associates

Annual job growth over the past three years has far outpaced the pre-pandemic average (2010-2019). Last year, the country added an average of 32,000 jobs per month, and 80% of those jobs were full-time roles. Hiring was spread across two-thirds of all industries.

The number of overall job vacancies has fallen by over 15% year over year. Health care and accommodation and food services currently have the highest number of job vacancies.

Source: StatCan

The most recent Canadian Survey on Business Conditions found that 70% of employers maintain a positive business outlooks for the next few months. However, the job market outlook for the near future is uncertain. Falling immigration levels are expected to lower the unemployment rate to around 6% by the beginning of next year, but trade wars between Canada and the US could hurt business investments and freeze hiring.

Areas of Job Promise

Green Economy: The government has committed to moving toward a net-zero economy and made investing in clean technologies a major priority. These investments are generating job opportunities in a variety of fields – from engineering to forestry to mining. The Smart Prosperity Institute estimates there will be nearly 300,000 openings in the green economy by 2030.

Occupations Expected to Require Green Skills the Most by 2040

• Civil engineers/civil engineering technicians
• Electrical and electronics engineers
• Administrative professionals
• Business services managers
• Corporate sales managers
• Customer and information services representatives
• Human resources professionals
• Maintenance managers
• Construction managers
• Candidates with wastewater processing and renewable energy skills are needed most.
• Top Ten Green Skills Most in Demand
• Wastewater processing
• Renewable energy
• Solar power
• ISO 14000
• LEED
• Air quality
• Energy efficiency
• Wind power generation
• Green energy
• Energy conservation

The sectors hiring the most green workers are mining, oil and gas extraction; utilities; professional, scientific and technical services; public administration; and manufacturing. While the Northwest Territories has the greatest need for workers with green skills, the highest number of job postings is in Ontario.

Superclusters

Canada’s Global Innovation Clusters program was created to attract talent, create jobs and grow the economy. Each cluster is comprised of industry-led confederations focused on technological innovations in key sectors.

There are five major ‘superclusters’:

1. Digital Technology: based in British Columbia
2. Protein Industries: based in the Prairie Provinces
3. Advanced Manufacturing: based in Ontario
4. Scale AI: based in Quebec
5. Ocean: based in Atlantic Canada

Talent Shortages

Statistics Canada reports that nearly 30% of employers surveyed expect to experience difficulty recruiting skilled workers over the next several months. Health care and social assistance; manufacturing; administrative and support; and waste management and remediation services are expected to be the most challenged in finding workers.

Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS)

The Ministry of Employment and Social Development of Canada’s (ESDC) Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) is used to project labor market demand and supply into the near future. The most recent COPS analysis predicts that, out of the 8.1 million job openings projected through 2033, 2.6 million are expected to be new positions resulting from economic growth.

More than 100 occupations are expected to face moderate-to-severe risks of shortages over this time period. The majority of these at-risk occupations are in the health care, natural and applied sciences, construction and transportation industries.

Sampling of Occupations with Predicted Shortages Through 2033

• Cybersecurity specialists
• Civil and mechanical engineers
• Clinical and laboratory medicine specialists
• Surgeons
• Registered nurses and nurse practitioners
• Teachers
• Therapists
• Cooks
• Trades workers (machinists, carpenters, welders, electricians, plumbers, etc.)
• Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services
• Manufacturing laborers

Japan

The global economy (and demand) is slowing down and that could have repercussions on Japan as well, reducing investments and deteriorating consumer confidence. Core consumer inflation is currently 3.5%, the highest rate in the past couple of years.

The country’s large maritime areas have made fishing a primary sector, although this is slowly changing. Among other factors, fishing stocks are also negatively impacted by climate change. As the industry declines, it has to rely on fish imports to meet demand. As a result, many foreign fishing companies have found new business opportunities exporting their products to Japan.

The industrial sector is diversified and technologically sophisticated. Once the world’s first manufacturer of electronic products, Japan now has to compete with other players in the region. It remains strong for the production of components and devices and key technologies including medical cameras and all-solid batteries. Its future goals include the development of new technologies for factory automation. Robotics, automobile, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, nanotechnology and renewable energy are key industries in this sector.

Banking, insurance services, retailing, transportation and telecommunications are among the top industries in the services sector.

Tourism is also a major industry. After years of crisis caused by the pandemic, the number of tourists making their way to the country is rising steadily to the point that Japan is promoting regional tourism using innovative and sustainable measures to avoid overcrowding.

Employment Outlook

In the Asia-Pacific Region, Japan has positive hiring intentions for the coming months, although one of the lowest (+14% compared to +43% of India, +32% of China and +27% of Singapore).

The national unemployment rate is currently around 2.5%, low compared to other developed economies.

• Talent shortages are pushing salaries higher.
• Over 50% of employers are planning to increase salaries, usually in the 1% to 5% range.
• Most of the new positions will be in IT, finance, engineering.

Key Employment Trends

Equality Needed: Japan’s gender gap in the workforce remains a significant economic concern despite recent improvements. The country ranked low (118th out of 146 countries) in last year’s gender gap report by the World Economic Forum.

Women still earn less than what men earn for working full-time and the share of women in senior leadership roles is very low (14.6%).

Expatriate Workers: The number of foreign workers in Japan has reached a new high, they are 2.3 million now in the country, the highest number in over two decades. The majority of them (one quarter) comes from Vietnam.

Foreign workers are needed to help address the nation’s shrinking labor force and aging population.

Hybrid work: Hybrid models of working have become increasingly valued by employees. Efforts by some organizations after the pandemic to enforce a full return to the office have met resistance, prompting workers to look for flexible alternatives. Some companies however have reevaluated their hybrid work policies in favor of working in-presence due to worries of declining productivity and impacts on the workplace culture.

Overall, while flexible working models have entered Japanese society, businesses continue to wrestle with finding the right balance between flexibility and performance.

Areas of Job Promise

The following sectors register some of the highest hiring activity:

• Accounting and finance
• Industrial and automotive
• Legal
• Life sciences
• Sales and marketing
• Technology

Sectors such as electronics and robotics are also showing sustained hiring.

Skills in Demand

Japan is one of the toughest places in the world to recruit professionals. This is due to a mix of cultural reasons, language skills and labor-force demographics.

Top in-demand hard skills this year include:

• IoT system planning
• AI and ML
• Robotics
• Cloud computing
• Data analysis
• Cybersecurity
• STEM education
• Teaching skills
• Health care and life sciences
• Renewable energy / sustainability expertise
• Financial expertise
• Employers are also valuing soft skills including:
• Advanced leadership
• Emotional intelligence
• Adaptability
• Resilience
• Cross-cultural communication

Explore GoinGlobal for relocation pre-departure preparedness

GoinGlobal has reliable and current career and employment resources for 120 locations worldwide. Contact the career center staff or alumni association at your alma mater college/university for support in preparing for relocation adventures and for getting the most out of GoinGlobal resources.*

*Access to GoinGlobal’s resource database is provided through subscribing institutions. Contact your college/university’s career center or library for access instructions.

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Various countries allow foreign nationals to volunteer (sometimes with a stipend), intern and even work for short periods of time. Explore organizations and companies offering these opportunities by going to GoinGlobal’s ‘Non-Profits and NGOs’ sections under ‘Finding a Job’ in each of our country and US city guides.

Excerpted from GoinGlobal’s Spain Country Career Guide

Spain: Cross-National Organizations and Resources

This section lists international job boards and directories specific to the non-profit sector. Many sites provide additional resources such as searchable databases of non-profits and NGOs, breaking news in the field and career advice. Some may require registration for full access.

The Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs) section introduces some prominent organizations in the field. Their websites include job vacancies and information on volunteering and internships. A few, such as The World Bank Group, have Young Professionals programs. Some IGOs have specific protocols applicants must follow. These are addressed both here and in Development Agency Applications.

The following phone numbers are listed in international format for those dialing from outside the country (+country code followed by the area or geographical code followed by the phone number). Example: +33 2 58 56 15 00

You will also need to dial an exit code before the country code when calling from another country. These vary by country and can be found here.

Action Without Borders/Idealist.org
https://www.idealist.org/en/ (English, Spanish, Portuguese)
You can search here not only for jobs in non-profits and NGOs, but also for volunteer and internship opportunities. Resources include a directory of nearly 130,000 organizations, a digital database of grad schools searchable by degree topic, and career advice specific to the non-profit world. 

Email: Contact form or support@idealist.org
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
X (Twitter)
YouTube

DevelopmentAid
https://www.developmentaid.org (English)
Learn about open grants, tenders and positions from this development-focused information services provider. There are several levels of fee-based membership, but you can browse the jobs board and most of the databases for free.

Email: Contact form
Facebook
LinkedIn
X (Twitter)
YouTube

Devex
https://www.devex.com/ (English)
Devex is a news organization focused on the non-profit sector that also posts a comprehensive jobs board and hosts both online and in-person events. There are several membership levels, with the most basic being free.

Email: info@devex.com or Contact form
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
X (Twitter)
YouTube

Devj
https://www.devj.org/ (English)
In addition to searching the online jobs board for professional, consulting and volunteer opportunities, registered jobseekers can post their resumés and sign up for job alerts. Registration is free.

Email: Contact form or support@devj.org

DevNetJobs.org
https://www.devnetjobs.org/ (English)
Although the interface is somewhat cluttered, the DevNetJobs.org site lists thousands of international development jobs across all sectors. Register for free to receive job alerts and post your contact information.

Email: jobs@devnetjobs.org

Facebook
X (Twitter)

Global Jobs
https://www.globaljobs.org/ (English)
Global Jobs lists professional opportunities and internships from non-profits, NGOs, government agencies and think tanks, as well as the private sector. Register for free to receive email alerts and check out the calendar of virtual events.

Email: Contact form or info@globaljobs.org
LinkedIn

NGOJobBoard
https://ngojobboard.org/ (English)
NGOJobBoard is run by InterAction, a Washington, DC-based alliance of international NGOs representing over 100 countries. It is fully searchable by keyword, location, job type and category, and includes internships and training/education opportunities. Registration is free.

Email: Contact form
Facebook
X (Twitter)

ReliefWeb
https://reliefweb.int/ (English)
ReliefWeb is an information portal on current world crises requiring humanitarian aid. It is provided by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and offers a good selection of job announcements and training programs focused mainly on relief efforts. Jobs are listed both under the ‘Jobs’ link and by organization name under the ‘Organizations’ link. This is also a good place to research a wide variety of aid issues and events, found under the ‘Topics’ link.

Email: feedback@reliefweb.int
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
X (Twitter)

Using GoinGlobal for Gap Year Adventures

GoinGlobal Career Guides have an average of 500 resources per guide, topics range from top job sites and industry trends to work permit regulations and resume/CV guidelines. Resources include both English and non-English sources, making GoinGlobal an ideal employment tool set for students and professionals of all nationalities. Contact the career center staff or alumni association at your college/university for support in preparing or advancing your career and for getting the most out of GoinGlobal resources.*

*Access to GoinGlobal’s resource database is provided through subscribing institutions. Contact your college/university’s career center or library for access instructions.

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Still adjusting to the working world? Do you want to understand the best ways to work with colleagues and advance your career? 

GoinGlobal’s ‘Office Conduct’ sections can help you navigate business culture, so you increase your chances of success. Learn about communication, dress codes, socializing, and workplace hierarchy in countries and cities around the world.

Each of our guides offer a ‘Cultural Advice’ section, where you can further explore ‘Office Conduct.’

Here is an excerpt from GoinGlobal’s India Country Guide:

India: General Workplace Conduct

In addition to seven Union Territories administered by the Central Government, India is made up of 28 states and eight union territories. Each of these states is demarcated on a linguistic basis. Given the country’s size, diversity and variety, it should come as no surprise that business protocol varies from region to region and organization to organization. For this reason, it is difficult to generalize about such things as proper business protocol and management styles.

In general, Indians are a very friendly and open people. The business culture is, to a certain extent, relaxed. In recent years, however, some industries, such as call centers or information technology corporations, have adopted more professional environments resembling the formal corporate ambiance of the West.
Respecting hierarchy and being polite are considered important in Indian business context. Building interpersonal relationships and rapport will aid in successful business ventures.

Indians have a great intrinsic respect for age and seniority, as well as loyalty to family and community. These notions are present in business and social circles and must be considered in any business relationship.

Attire

• Normal business dress for men is a suit and tie. Because of India’s very warm climate, however, a long-sleeved shirt and tie — without a jacket — often is acceptable.
• Women may wear either Western business clothes or traditional Indian attire, whichever is more comfortable.
• Choose neutral, subdued colors over bright hues.
• In most companies — particularly those in the IT sector — the dress code is much more casual. It is not unusual to find people wearing T-shirts and jeans with sneakers.
• While more conservative clothing is advised, it is best to observe the work environment and dress accordingly.

Dining

Having lunch together is a great way to get to know colleagues. In most organizations, the lunch hour is a source of camaraderie. You are likely to come across people clustered into groups, chatting and sharing their lunch boxes. Most multinational companies have cafeterias that offer vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare at subsidized rates.

Using GoinGlobal for Career Development 

GoinGlobal Career Guides have an average of 500 resources per guide, topics range from top job sites and industry trends to work permit regulations and resume/CV guidelines. Resources include both English and non-English sources, making GoinGlobal an ideal employment tool set for students and professionals of all nationalities. Contact the career center staff or alumni association at your college/university for support in preparing or advancing your career and for getting the most out of GoinGlobal resources.*

*Access to GoinGlobal’s resource database is provided through subscribing institutions. Contact your college/university’s career center or library for access instructions.

The post Adjusting to the Workplace: Office Conduct appeared first on GoinGlobal Blog.

There is an adjustment that inevitably comes after university graduation as you prepare to enter the workforce. It’s an exciting time when you transition from a student to a professional, implementing the things you’ve spent a lifetime learning. It’s when all those hard skills – and soft skills – come to bear. To make this adjustment easier, it’s best to be prepared for the career you are entering, along with the general economic landscape and employment trends that exist in your planned job market and the major markets around the world. Which industries are thriving? Which are contracting? What’s on the horizon for your field? Do your skills match today’s needs and those of the future? Having a broad knowledge of today’s trends, and those forecasted, sets you up for long-term success and can guide your current and future job-seeking and graduate education approach.

Here is a snapshot of current employment trends in three major cities around the world.

Shanghai, China

Employment Outlook: China’s employers are expected to be cautious over the next 2 to 5 years because of the global economic situation. Most of them are not very optimistic. In the region, however, China is one of the countries with the strongest hiring intentions for this year. Shanghai plans to create around 600,000 new opportunities for skilled talents this year.

Industry Trends:

• Accounting and Finance: Fintech is revolutionizing financial services with the growth of e-commerce and non-traditional finance. China now boasts multiple fintech hubs including Shanghai. The city ranks as the third fintech hub worldwide in the latest Global Fintech Center Development Index, after New York and London. There are around 2,000 fintech companies in the city, which are leading in the use of emerging technologies such as cloud computing, AI and blockchain.
• Cleantech/Renewable Energy: Clean energy growth has seen record installations of both solar and wind energy plants in recent years. The government aims to reach a peak in carbon emissions by 2030 and at becoming carbon neutral by 2060. Huge investments have been made, creating the biggest solar market in the world with an installed solar energy capacity of over 886 GW. In Shanghai’s Chongming Island, the city’s renewable energy powerhouse, about one-third of electricity comes from green sources. The island uses photovoltaic and wind power.
• Engineering: Companies are investing more in R&D and technological advancements as they aim to enhance product quality by using new technologies such as smart manufacturing and robotics, green manufacturing and digital transformation. Shanghai boasts 561 foreign R&D centers, most of them focused on IT and new technologies such as AI, biomedicine, chemical industries and integrated circuits. High-tech industries significantly contribute to the city’s manufacturing output, though heavy industry still plays a key role in its economy.

Paris, France

Employment Outlook: Paris is ranked first in the EU as a startup ecosystem, and it is ranked fourth-best city worldwide for innovation, after Tokyo, London and New York. It is also ranked the first science and technology cluster in Europe and 12th worldwide.

The Paris administration offers plenty of job opportunities this year, including positions in the municipal police, hospitality and early childhood services. More specialist positions are also in high demand in Paris, including climate engineering technicians, doctors, data analysts, archaeologists, web developers, sales representatives and management controllers. In other communes in the Île-de-France region, industries looking for candidates include pharmaceutical logistics, cable manufacturing and aerospace.

With its high concentration of qualified workers and company headquarters, the capital offers the highest salaries in the country.

Industry Trends: 

• Aeronautics: The country’s aeronautics industry dates to 1908 and is a key industry, with famous companies such as Airbus, Dassault and Safran. The region is a major aeronautics hub. The Centre National d’Études Spatiales (the National Center for Space Studies) is located here. As the most important aeronautics region in the country, the Paris region offers plenty of job opportunities.
• Business Management and Marketing: Paris is a major economic center. Paris La Defense is the fourth-largest business district in the world and hosts Europe’s largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies including AXA (insurance), BNP Paribas, EDF (Électricité de France), and telecom giant Orange. In addition, it is a major center of commerce and home to a vibrant startup scene. It is also a cluster of SMEs and home to 34% of French managers. The hiring outlook is positive, although the market is increasingly becoming more demanding, moving towards a hyper-specialization of sales professionals. As a result, companies might start offering attractive salaries, career advancement prospects, training opportunities, a positive company culture and other benefits to attract highly skilled professionals.
• Health Care: The Paris region is a major health innovation hub, with an above-average R&D spending related to GDP. It houses around 40% of France’s R&D researchers and is a leader in developing and implementing high-quality biomedical research. Paris, and France in general, is facing a shortage of health care staff. Many hospitals are overstretched. One-third of vacant positions are specialized care roles. Nurses and care assistants are also in severe shortages in almost all hospitals departments, especially in operating theatres, emergency rooms and nursing homes. Due in part to an aging population, physiotherapists are also in high demand.

Toronto, Canada

Employment Outlook: The sectors that appear to be weathering the current economic headwinds best are finance and insurance; health care; business services; scientific and technical; and the creative industries. The education and public administration sector is one of the few still actively hiring, having added 30,000 jobs over the past year. Job prospects for teachers and administrators at all levels remain good, according to Employment and Social Development Canada.

Industry Trends: 

• Film and TV: Toronto’s television and film industry is one of North America’s largest. Ontario accounts for over a third of total film and TV production in Canada. The film sector is comprised not only of TV and film productions but also commercials, music videos, animation and special effects. Local specialties include post-production work, special effects, animation and emerging technology. The creative sector, which includes TV and film, was one of the few that added new jobs over the past year; employment increased by 5.3%. However, job postings over the last 12 months have declined by over 50%. Some shortage occupations include production accountants, set designers, costumers, grips, artists, VFX (visual effects) designers and sound mixers.
• Info/Communications Technology: The Toronto-Waterloo Corridor is the fourth-largest tech cluster in North America. It hosts over 15,000 companies and more than 5,200 startups and represents the main hub for Canada’s fintech ecosystem. More than 36% of the population in the corridor are foreign born, indicating a diverse and international workforce. Over the past five years, Toronto’s tech workforce has grown by 44%. Area strengths include interactive digital media and immersive technologies such as web3, virtual reality (VR), extended reality (XR) and the metaverse. The region is also a center for AI and quantum computing. The Toronto Intelligent Systems Lab, the NVIDIA AI Lab, the Samsung AI Center and the Sanofi AI Centre of Excellence are all based here.
• Manufacturing: Manufacturing is a major employer here, representing nearly 11% of all jobs in the metro region. Main subsectors include aerospace, food and beverage processing, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, robotics, e-mobility and EV (electric vehicle) charging. This increasingly high-tech industry relies on technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, system integration, automation, sensors and machine vision. Although the current economic uncertainty has affected all industries, the manufacturing sector has been one of the hardest hit. The number of sector job postings over the past year declined by 82%. Nevertheless, job prospects remain good for manufacturing managers and supervisors, industrial and power electricians, and power engineers and power systems operators. Skills shortages are also growing as the population ages.

Research Smarter with GoinGlobal

Look for vetted, reliable information and resources on China, France, and Canada in GoinGlobal’s expert written Country & City Guides.

Access to GoinGlobal’s career and employment resource database is provided through subscribing institutions. Contact your college/university’s career center or library for access instructions.

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A gap year can mean many things and lead to a myriad of experiences and opportunities. Whether the year is taken between high school and university studies, university and graduate studies or jobs, it can open your eyes to new paths and prepare you for them. Traveling, volunteering, working at a non-profit or temporary job, interning in your field of interest and building your network are among the most favored ways for professionals and students to spend a gap year. Here are some ways to make the most of these endeavors.

Traveling

One way to expand our minds is to expand our horizons. There is no better way to understand the world than by experiencing it first-hand. A gap year can be the ideal time to travel. Learning about new cultures, visiting far-flung countries, backpacking, staying in hostiles, trying new foods and practicing new languages on the locals are all on the table when you have the time and sense of adventure an open year in your life provides. It can be a freeing, growing and enlightening experience, and one you won’t ever forget. It can inform your future choices, both professionally and personally.

Internships

Internships can help you gain experience, make contacts and maybe even land a job. Approach applying for internships the same as if you were applying for a job – make sure to research the employer, write a customized cover letter and CV, and prepare for the interview.

One way to secure an internship is to go through paid programs that provide a comprehensive package that may include matching your profile with relevant employers, arranging for your visa and housing, and other necessities. Many companies and organizations offer virtual internships.

Virtual internships provide cost-effective opportunities to gain important work experience and build professional networks from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. And while interning remotely requires self-discipline, the experience also fosters valuable time management and digital communication skills, making you more competitive in today’s job market.

Check out the following resources for finding virtual internships:

• Absolute Internship
• CIEE (Council on International Exchange)
• Go Overseas
• Virtual Internships

Job Fairs and Career Events

Job fairs and career events offer opportunities to meet recruiters and personnel managers in informal settings. They are usually free of charge to jobseekers and provide an excellent opportunity to practice your networking skills while you learn more about the local employment scene. Many employers also host information sessions in conjunction with job fairs that give candidates a chance to learn more about specific career and internship opportunities.

Virtual career fairs became popular after COVID-19. While in-person career fairs have made a strong return, virtual and hybrid options are still offering flexibility and accessibility to both employers and jobseekers. Attending a virtual job fair lets you interact with career specialists, hiring managers and talent scouts via live chat rooms, AMA (Ask Me Anything) recruitment events, webinars and interviews from the convenience of your home country and living space.

You will typically get asked to fill out a profile and upload a CV. Registration is usually free, and many fair operators offer technical troubleshooting assistance.

Staffing Agencies and Temporary Help Firms

Staffing agencies and temporary help firms act as liaisons between jobseekers and employers, often with no cost to the jobseeker. Many firms offer job coaching, CV assistance and other career services.

Temporary jobs can be helpful sources of income while job hunting; they can also provide real-world work experience and can often lead to a full-time position. While both temporary firms and staffing agencies hire for short-term work, staffing agencies also hire for full-time and contract work as well. The positions offered can be in-person, hybrid, or fully remote.

Most staffing agency websites list job openings, which you can search by various criteria, such as key word and location. Usually, you need to register to create job alerts, upload your CV, apply for jobs or send an application to be contacted by recruiters. Agency websites can also provide information on the local job market, salaries, and other job-hunting resources.

Non-Profit and NGO Work

Many non-profit organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) offer volunteer and internship positions, which can help you develop your professional network and meet people with similar interests and values. Staff members and other project participants can become valuable connections, offering information, contacts and references that can assist you as you build your career.

Internships are training programs designed to build and strengthen professional skills by providing work experience. Although NGOs and non-profits may offer internships to individuals of various ages and backgrounds, college-aged students and recent graduates most commonly accept these positions. Most internships are unsalaried positions; a few organizations offer stipends or college credit, or (conversely) may require interns to pay for the privilege of working for the organization. Some internship programs, especially with popular or highly regarded organizations, may have an intensely competitive application process that resembles a formal job application. Many organizations also offer virtual internships.

Volunteers typically have a less formal relationship with the organizations they are assisting than interns at those organizations, and the application process tends to be less competitive. Unlike interns, volunteers do not usually receive formal training and are not typically required to adhere to a strict schedule. Volunteers may perform a wide variety of tasks, reflecting the needs of the organization, and those who have worked with an organization extensively may be given significant responsibilities.

The abilities that volunteers and interns develop while working with an organization are often highly valuable to employers – numerous volunteers and interns have translated non-profit and NGO experiences into marketable career skills. In fact, many organizations fill a large percentage of their open positions by hiring current and former interns and volunteers.

For more information, check out these sources:

Action Without Borders/Idealist.org

(English, Spanish, Portuguese)
You can search here not only for jobs in non-profits and NGOs, but also for volunteer and internship opportunities. Resources include a directory of nearly 130,000 organizations, a virtual incubator course, and career advice specific to the non-profit world.

Devex
(English)
Devex is a news organization focused on the non-profit sector that also posts a comprehensive jobs board and hosts both online and in-person events. There are several membership levels, with the most basic being free.

Global Jobs
 (English)
Global Jobs lists professional opportunities and internships from non-profits, NGOs, government agencies and think tanks, as well as the private sector. Register for free to receive email alerts and check out the calendar of virtual events.

NGOJobBoard
(English)
NGOJobBoard is run by InterAction, a Washington, DC-based alliance of international NGOs representing over 100 countries. It is fully searchable by keyword, location, job type and category, and includes internships and training/education opportunities. Registration is free.

Volunteer World
 (many languages)
Volunteer World is a global platform where people can search for volunteer opportunities based on their field of interest, age group, destination and program duration, and the browser automatically finds the options available according to the criteria entered. The site guides you through the application process.

Conclusion

A gap year helps you grow in unexpected ways. It can be a pivotal time that helps you chart the course for your future endeavors. Embrace it and enjoy it.

Expand your research using GoinGlobal

GoinGlobal offers extensive career and employment advice on more than 120 locations worldwide. The country and city career guides provide advice on networking, interviewing, general workplace conduct and so much more, including the ever-popular tips on how to act like a local.

Access to GoinGlobal’s resource database is provided through subscribing institutions. Contact your college/university’s career center or library for access instructions.

The post Making the Most of a Gap Year appeared first on GoinGlobal Blog.

Here’s How to Get Started

GoinGlobal’s career and employment resources, which are developed by subject-matter experts, provide valuable industry insights and are a reliable place to source professional associations by location for 120 of the largest metropolitan areas worldwide.

In our Country Career Guides, choose your country of interest and seek out ‘Hiring Opportunities’, click ‘Employment and Industry Trends’ and then ‘Industry Opportunities.’ Industries are listed in alphabetical order. The associated professional associations are listed at the bottom of each industry page.

Similarly, in our Global City Career Guides, seek out your city of interest and under ‘Hiring Opportunities’, click ‘Employment and Industry Trends’ and then ‘Industry Associations.’ 

Finally, in our US City Career Guides, choose your city and find ‘Professional and Personal Networking,’ click ‘Professional Associations’ and then the desired industry.

As an example, if you’re involved in an Information Technology (IT) field, here is an abbreviated excerpt of one of our curated lists of professional associations for Austin, TX USA:

Austin, TX (GoinGlobal U.S. City Guide)

Information/Communication Technology

Austin Tech Alliance
https://www.austintech.org
This group promotes civic engagement within the capital area’s tech sector. Through its non-partisan ‘informed.vote’ initiative, the group encourages newcomers to the region to register to vote and works to inform its members about local and state issues in upcoming elections. Events are listed on the website.

Austin Technology Council
https://www.austintechnologycouncil.org
The Austin Technology Council’s mission is to provide knowledge and access to its members in aspects of capital, talent, business mentoring and networking. The group’s Policy Coalition lobbies elected officials and policymakers on behalf of tech and innovation companies in Central Texas. Its website includes a calendar of events.

Austin Women in Technology
https://www.awtaustin.org
This non-profit organization serves the interests of women working in technology in the public sector by offering opportunities for professional development, education and networking. The website includes an events calendar.

Cofounders Austin by the Techmap
https://www.meetup.com/CoFounder-Austin
This 4,800-member group organizes ‘pitch events’ where entrepreneurs may network and research investment opportunities. The group, which works through the Techmap platform, is open to software designers and developers, hardware architects and students. Meetings and contact information are listed on the website.

IEEE Computer Society – Austin Chapter
https://r5.ieee.org/ctx-cs/
The Computer Society, a group within the IEEE, has tens of thousands of members worldwide. The group publishes industry-specific magazines and journals, and hosts dozens of conferences every year. Members receive a subscription to Computer.

Society for Information Management (SIM) – Austin Chapter
https://www.austinsim.org/
SIM Austin provides networking opportunities for managers in the technology and business fields. The chapter usually holds an evening meeting on the second Tuesday of the month. The national organization offers face-to-face meetings and networking programs, such as the SIMposium and CIO roundtables. It maintains online tools that include on-demand webinars and a virtual library of industry whitepapers. It also publishes SIM News and MIS Quarterly Executive, filled with up-to-date IT news.

Technology Advisors Group (TAG)
www.tagaustin.org
This group provides a forum for the exchange of information among Austin’s business professionals and the high-tech community. TAG members, who include technologists, service providers and business leaders, meet monthly for breakfast and a speaker. A calendar of upcoming events is included on the website.

Women in Technology International (WITI) – Austin Chapter
https://www.witi.com/networks/austin
WITI Austin provides a forum for professional women to network, share resources and discover opportunities in the technology industry. Women in Technology International is a trade association for tech-savvy women. The website features a career center where members can search for jobs, create and post a resumé, and research companies.

Using GoinGlobal for Career Development 

GoinGlobal Career Guides have an average of 500 resources per guide, topics range from top job sites and industry trends to work permit regulations and resume/CV guidelines. Resources include both English and non-English sources, making GoinGlobal an ideal employment tool set for students and professionals of all nationalities. Contact the career center staff or alumni association at your college/university for support in preparing or advancing your career and for getting the most out of GoinGlobal resources.*

*Access to GoinGlobal’s resource database is provided through subscribing institutions. Contact your college/university’s career center or library for access instructions.

The post Level Up Your Career: Explore Professional Associations appeared first on GoinGlobal Blog.

Landing in a new city can be exciting. There are so many new things to discover and experience. The newness of it all can be invigorating. One thing that might dampen the mood, however, is a job search in this new landscape. Without your old network and tried-and-true strategies, how will you find a new job that is fulfilling and meets you where you are in your career in this new city? The keys to success will be familiar but are worth discussing. There are job search resources, networking groups and other online and in-person professional associations that will assist you in your job hunt and jumpstart your new professional network in your new city.

Job Search Overview

Even in places where the job market is robust, competition can be fierce. Many cities around the world are making a strategic push towards digital transformation across various sectors, like IT, finance and engineering, and this agenda shapes the job market and influences the demand for talent. Being mindful of key sectors and understanding how to navigate job search resources is crucial for success.

Start your job search online using sites such as Jobstreet or LinkedIn. Many employers recruit directly through their own portals and Facebook pages. The traditional methods of using recruitment agencies, getting business referrals and networking through professional associations still work too, as many countries values personal connections.

It’s also important to be aware of work visa regulations. For foreign nationals, the job search comes with challenges regarding the hiring process and securing a work permit. While some governments may restrict the hiring of foreigners in certain industries, employers operating in priority sectors have access to fast-track streams for work permits, without the usual quota restrictions. If you focus your job search on these key sectors, which are poised for growth and innovation, you might find more accessible opportunities.

Online Job Sites

Job sites are an effective way of finding work. Many of these sites are aggregators, or metasearch engines, scanning thousands of job boards and employer websites to deliver their search results.

Job boards are usually free for jobseekers, and you can upload your resume/CV so employers can contact you. Most websites also let you set up alerts so you can receive job postings that correspond to your criteria, such as job title, industry or location.

Besides job postings, many sites offer career advice, job market information, salary calculators and other tools. Registration may be required to use all of a site’s features. It’s also worthwhile to visit the career pages of employers that interest you. Lastly, check government-run resources.

Here are a few examples of online job sites:

• FastJobs
  https://www.fastjobs.my/ (English)
  FastJobs lists full-time, part-time and contract roles in all sectors. It functions best through its app, which uses AI to identify jobs that are similar to your history and offers a variety of other features, including a quick CV builder and the ‘WhatsApp to Apply’ feature ̶ when you click apply, you’re connected to a WhatsApp chat with the employer.
• Glassdoor
  https://www.glassdoor.com/ (English)
  Glassdoor Jobs is a global job search and recruiting platform that offers more than just local job listings. It lets you compare salaries and gain insights into local employers through reviews posted by current and former employees, including feedback on the interview process.
• Indeed
  https://indeed.com
  Indeed is a popular job search platform that aggregates job listings from various sources. Its job feed section displays relevant job opportunities based on your activity and preferences. Indeed also offers employer reviews and salary information.
• JobStreet
  https://my.jobstreet.com/ (English)
  Jobs postings on JobStreet cover all levels, from roles for new graduates to senior management, in a wide range of industries such as IT, retail, engineering, finance, manufacturing and HR. The platform also provides articles on career development and employer profiles.

Job Fairs and Career Events

Job fairs and career events offer opportunities to meet recruiters and personnel managers in informal settings. These events are free of charge to jobseekers and are one way to interact with an employer’s representatives and find out more about specific job openings. Most career events are advertised in local newspapers, but many are listed online as well.

The atmosphere is generally relaxed, but professional, and conducive to interviewing. These events will give you an excellent opportunity to practice your networking skills while you learn more about the local employment scene.

Virtual Career Fairs

Virtual career fairs have become more popular as a legacy of COVID-19. They can be hosted by the same groups that sponsor in-person fairs, as well as by job boards or online recruitment companies.

Attending a virtual job fair can be an effective way to connect with career specialists, hiring managers and recruiters via chat rooms, video, streams and/or email, and all from the convenience of your home country and living space.

You will typically be asked to fill out a profile and upload a resume/CV. Registration is usually free, and most virtual fair operators provide technical assistance if you’re having trouble.

Staffing Agencies and Temporary Help Firms

Most staffing agency websites list job openings, which you can search by various criteria, such as key word and location. Usually, you need to register to create job alerts, upload your resume/CV, apply for jobs or send a spontaneous application, and to be contacted by recruiters. Agency websites also often publish career advice, information on the job market and salaries, and other job-hunting resources.

Executive Recruiters and Search Firms

Executive recruiters help jobseekers find professional-level employment in specific markets and industries. In general, executive recruiters/search firms are usually limited to higher-level management, executive, specialty and international positions. Although some firms work in multiple industries, most executive recruiters focus on specific industries.

The best way to get started is to select a relevant firm and email them your cover letter and resume/CV. Follow their instructions for resume/CV submission; usually the firm will get in touch with you if they have an opportunity available. Some firms have jobs posted on their websites, which sometimes also have career advice, job market and salary information, and other resources.

Conclusion

There are many resources that can help make your job search in a new city or country easier. When you relocate, remember that you have a new network just waiting for you. You are only a few clicks away from a bevy of contacts and new opportunities.

Expand your research using GoinGlobal

Knowing as much as you can about a country before you move there can be helpful and enhance your experience. GoinGlobal offers extensive career and employment advice on more than 120 locations worldwide. The country and city career guides provide advice on networking, interviewing, general workplace conduct and so much more, including the ever-popular tips on how to act like a local.

Access to GoinGlobal’s resource database is provided through subscribing institutions. Contact your college/university’s career center or library for access instructions.

The post Job Searching After Relocating  appeared first on GoinGlobal Blog.

In our Career Guides, we include engineering sections which offer information on the employment outlook, major employers, in-demand jobs and future trends in the sector. The information is tailored by location. Some guides will also offer information about education in the field.

How Do I Get Started?

Look for ‘Hiring Opportunities’ in any of our Country and City Career Guides, and click ‘Employment and Industry Trends’ and then ‘Industry Trends/Opportunities.’ Industries are listed in alphabetical order.

Here is a brief excerpt from our Country Career Guide for Germany:

Germany

Engineering: Employment Outlook

Engineering is one of Germany’s greatest strengths. It is the largest industrial sector and accounts for 24% of industrial revenue. Out of 75 top automotive suppliers in the world, 15 are German.

The country is a manufacturing powerhouse, home to giants such as Siemens, BMW Group and ThyssenKrupp.

The automotive industry, in particular, is a dominant force in the economy and employs many engineers. This includes high-tech automotive products such as autonomous driving vehicles, for which Germany is a world leader.

The automotive industry is not the only avenue for engineers. There are also thriving pharmaceutical, construction, medical device, chemical, plastics, aerospace and energy sectors – all of which need engineers.

In addition, there are also specialized sectors such as electric and electronic equipment and mechanical engineering.

Occupations in civil and structural engineering and in mechatronics are listed prominently in the Federal Employment Agency’s Skilled Labor Shortage Analysis.

Industrial occupational groups with the most vacancies this year are:

• Logistics
• Mechatronics, energy and electrical
• Mechanical and automotive engineering
• Metal production/processing/construction
• Vehicle and transport equipment manufacturing

Industrial activity is concentrated in the states of Baden-Württemberg and North Rhine-Westphalia, where more than 1,600 production facilities operate.

Foreign engineers must have their qualifications verified to hold the job title of ‘engineer’ or ‘consulting engineer.’ Recognition in Germany provides more information.

Areas of Job Promise

Engineering, IT and health care are the sectors that suffer from talent shortages the most. Engineers are needed as a result of the country’s infrastructure development projects and its digital transformation.

To tackle the shortage, the government is working with IT companies on education initiatives to attract young people to fields such as STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

At the same time, the government is working on increasing the work quality for people in these sectors (such as better salaries or promoting a better work-life balance) and on enhancing women, older people and migrants’ participation into the workforce.

The engineering roles that experience the major shortages are:

• Mechanical engineers
• Construction engineers
• Electrical engineers
• Automechanics
• Autoelectricians

Mechatronics

Mechatronics engineers – those who work with smart technologies and have expertise in mechanics, electronics and computer software – are in high demand, especially in the medical technology, automotive and electrical industries.

Automotive

German cars are known for their technical innovation, product quality and safety. The automotive industry employs over 750,000 workers.

The industry’s transformation is ongoing, and there is a strong emphasis on innovation. More than 60% of R&D growth in Europe was generated by the German motor vehicles sector. One-third of worldwide automotive R&D spending was made by German original equipment manufacturers.

One important future trend in the industry is electric car battery production. Volkswagen is part of a consortium of companies that this year launched a trial of vehicles with bi-directional charging capabilities – technology that allows unused energy to flow back into the grid.

Top auto manufacturers include:

1. Volkswagen Group
2. Daimler
3. BMW Group
4. Porsche
5. Audi

Logistics of Using GoinGlobal for Employment Outlook Preparedness

GoinGlobal has reliable and current career and employment resources for 120 locations worldwide. Contact the career center staff or alumni association at your college/university for support in preparing for a STEM career and for getting the most out of GoinGlobal resources.*

*Access to GoinGlobal’s resource database is provided through subscribing institutions. Contact your college/university’s career center or library for access instructions.

The post Exploring STEM: Discover Employment Outlooks in Engineering Using GoinGlobal appeared first on GoinGlobal Blog.

When you are faced with a job relocation, even one for which you are excited and have anticipated, the initial change and upheaval to your life can be stressful. There are plenty of things to take care of before you leave, including finding a place to live in your new city, packing up your current residence, taking care of any outstanding work, service and social obligations, handling financial responsibilities and, if you have a family, finding a new school for your children and helping to make sure your partner finds a happy work and living situation. A move across the country or abroad brings many of the same challenges, but leaving your home country does introduce additional considerations, like visas, language and cultural differences, home ownership laws, medical insurance rules, tax laws and more. All of this to say, the more prepared you are, the more smoothly the move is likely to go and the quicker you’ll be settled and enjoying your new situation. Here are a few tips that go beyond the basics to help with the relocation.

Cost of Living

Cost of living varies widely depending on where and how you live. It’s important to be aware of the cost of living in your new city. Generally speaking, large cities are more expensive than smaller cities and towns, but a lot depends on your lifestyle.

Many countries experienced a cost-of-living crisis in recent years, driven by the pandemic, wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, and inflation. Inflation has fallen significantly in many countries over the last three years, but many countries and cities around the world are still facing financial difficulties due to the high cost of living. Many countries are also dealing with a severe housing crisis decades in the making. Aside from housing, the cost of groceries, transportation, entertainment, health care and taxes should be considered when planning your move. Look at your budget and be realistic about whether you can afford your proposed new living situation before committing to an apartment lease, a new car or anything else.

Many countries are also dealing with a severe housing crisis decades in the making.

Housing

It is important to begin your housing search before you move. Real estate agents can be a great help with housing. In most cities, many housing types are available – from apartments and condominiums to townhouses and detached dwellings. Housing costs vary from city to city, but accommodation will likely be your biggest expense. The general rule of thumb has been to allow for 30% of your budget for accommodation, but a 35% to 50% may be more realistic these days. Keep in mind that it’s usually cheaper to live in suburbs outside of major cities.

Many major cities around the world are facing housing shortages, which has led to high rental and sale prices in recent years. However, there have been signs of improvement within many housing markets. Rental prices have come down over the last couple of years. However, it will take years to get back to an affordable range for typical households.

Transportation

No matter if you are moving to a city that has abundant public transportation or one reliant on personal vehicles, you’ll likely consider the location of your new housing and its proximity to your office, restaurants, schools, shopping and other frequented establishments. Commuting time matters and making your life as convenient and stress-free as possible is important to most of us. Many large cities around the world offer great public transportation, including such options as subways, light rail, buses, trams and trains. Most towns also have public transportation options.

It is important to consider if you’ll need a car, especially if you don’t currently own one. This will be a new expense and a pricey one that includes gasoline and insurance prices, as well as, sometimes, parking costs. Bicycles, motorcycles and scooters can also be alternatives to a car and tend to be less expensive.

Networking

Many countries place high importance on networking and personal communication, both in professional and social contexts. Whether you are a returnee or a newcomer to your relocation city, having a robust professional support network can help your career, provide valuable insights and ease your assimilation into the local community.

Depending on your industry, you can find various business associations that act as a common forum for people to enrich their professional activities beyond their jobs. Some general associations are a good starting point to extend your network beyond your industry. These groups are good places to find professional development training and seminars, opportunities to form partnerships through networking events and get updates on the local scene.

Many countries place high importance on networking and personal communication, both in professional and social contexts.

Chambers of commerce are among the most valuable resources for learning about local markets and making important contacts. Chambers are often essential for driving economic growth by representing business interests, advocating for favorable policies, facilitating networking and partnerships, providing business support services, acting as information hubs, and representing businesses’ collective voice to policymakers and international organizations. They play a crucial role in fostering entrepreneurship and connections between members.

Online communities can also help newcomers settle into a new location by connecting them with people who have similar interests or who are fellow foreign visitors. Both virtual and IRL (‘in real life’) events can bring together groups of like-minded individuals. Gatherings can be purely social, or organized around professional interests or hobbies, but they all offer social connections that can be used to make professional contacts.

Explore GoinGlobal for relocation pre-departure preparedness

GoinGlobal has reliable and current career and employment resources for 120 locations worldwide. Contact the career center staff or alumni association at your alma mater college/university for support in preparing for relocation adventures and for getting the most out of GoinGlobal resources.*

*Access to GoinGlobal’s resource database is provided through subscribing institutions. Contact your college/university’s career center or library for access instructions.

The post Plan Ahead for a Job Relocation appeared first on GoinGlobal Blog.

In each of our 120-plus Country and City Career Guides, seek the section called  ‘Living There’. 

Excerpt from GoinGlobal’s City Career Guide for Berlin, Germany

Acting Like a Local

• Dining etiquette is Continental, meaning the knife is held in the right hand and the fork in the left. Do not switch the fork to the right hand during the meal.
• Do not begin eating until the host says Guten Appetit (bon appétit, enjoy your meal).
  Common toasts are Zum Wohl! (when toasting with wine) and Prost! (with beer). Both phrases mean ‘health.’
• When entering a store, it’s customary to say Guten Tag (hello) and Vielen Dank, Auf Wiedersehen (thank you, good-bye) when leaving.
• It’s usual to tip in restaurants; this is done mainly by rounding up the bill.
• The person who extends the invitation will generally pay for the meal. An attempt to ‘fight’ over the bill may be taken literally by the German, and the guest will end up paying.
• A suggestion to get something to eat together is not considered an invitation.
• Since Germans are very direct communicators, it’s okay for guests to say they cannot eat certain items. Share this as soon as possible to avoid confusion, though.
• To integrate quickly, check with the local registration office, colleagues or online to find clubs and societies, or regular meetings where you can meet locals and fellow newcomers or share hobbies.
• Gifts are expected for social events, especially for private dinner parties. Appropriate gifts are fine chocolates, a sweet dessert wine or an after-dinner liqueur of good quality. When staying with a family, gifts from your home country are appropriate. Gourmet foods (maple syrup or pralines, for example), coffee table books or anything that reflects the host’s personal tastes are always appreciated, as is a handwritten thank you card.
• Inappropriate flowers to give include chrysanthemums, heather or callas (used mainly for funerals), red roses or orchids (too romantic). The bouquet should include an odd number of flowers (an old European tradition).
• Generally speaking, the phrase ‘How are you?’ (Wie geht es Ihnen?) is taken seriously. Asking the question without waiting for a reply is seen as impolite and superficial.
• Between lunch and dinner, Germans often enjoy an afternoon break of coffee or tea with cake, known as Kaffee und Kuchen, Kaffeetrinken or Kaffeeklatsch.
• When ordering a beer, specify Dunkles (dark) or Helles (light), ein Grosses or ein Kleines (large or small), vom Fass (draft) or Flasche (bottled).

Explore GoinGlobal for relocation pre-departure preparedness

GoinGlobal has reliable and current career and employment resources for the U.S. and over 70 other countries – 120 locations worldwide. Contact the career center staff or alumni association at your alma mater college/university for support in preparing for relocation adventures and for getting the most out of GoinGlobal resources.*

*Access to GoinGlobal’s resource database is provided through subscribing institutions. Contact your college/university’s career center or library for access instructions.

The post Cultural Advice for Relocating – GoinGlobal’s Country and City Career Guides Offer Helpful Tips appeared first on GoinGlobal Blog.