Jobs: The world is calling!

The global job scene has steadied somewhat. Here's what to consider before taking the plunge.

A job abroad brings with it a notion of higher salaries and better lifestyles. However, post-downturn, the realities of the global job space have undergone a significant change.

The global jobs scenario

The worldwide employment scene has been following a definite trend. While the jobs' graph saw a sharp decline till the end of 2008, it flattened out during the first half of 2009. It's only since the later half of last year that it started looking better. However, the growth has been slow and nowhere near pre-downturn levels. The first half of 2010 is thus likely to be a period of consolidation.

Europe and the United States have survived the worst of the crisis and are showing signs of improvement. For the Middle East too, things have become better. . . .

"However, after the Dubai crisis, employers are considering delaying hiring decisions by 3-6 months," says Vineet K Singh, business head, NaukriGulf.com, Naukri's Middle East portal. Another major destination that is hiring is Africa. To get a snapshot of the destinations and sectors that are hiring see A Map of the World below.

A Map Of The World

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Why work abroad?

A combination of several factors could influence a person's decision to explore a career abroad. One big factor is a pure economic benefit from higher compensation or zero taxes (as in the Middle East).

People also look for a global exposure as a significant addition to their curriculum vitae. This applies in particular to the US or European markets that have 'higher benchmarking processes' and 'helps in upgrading the skills' of an individual, as Sunil Goel, director, GlobalHunt India, an executive search firm, puts it.

However, over the years, the appeal for global jobs has declined. In fact, with India being one of the few countries growing at over 6 per cent, it is likely to offer you a faster growing career than other countries.

The salary gap between India and countries abroad has also narrowed considerably, especially for middle and senior management positions. It pays to look for a job back home, unless you get a really good offer abroad. . . .

Search for a job abroad

Overseas consultants and recruitment firms are good channels to start your overseas job search. But be sure to verify their credibility.

Sandeep Garg, immigration and international HR consultant with Overseas Career, an international career consultant, says, "Check whether the consultant is registered and has the license from the ministry of overseas Indian affairs to recruit for international assignments."

Another way to search is through online job portals. Sanjay Modi, managing director, Monster.com, India, Middle East and South-East Asia has a word of advice.

"Individuals should concentrate on the organisation they are working for. If the organisation has got a good track record, uses the latest technology and offers a good salary and career growth, one can take up a job even in a third world country." . . .

Things to consider

First, analyse what it means in terms of growth, career prospects and opportunities. "You also have to remember that opting for an overseas job is not only a change in your professional life, but also a change in your culture, environment and geography. So, while selecting, be clear what your interests and expectations from yourself are," says Goel.

Decide whether you want to shift with your family, as it could affect your spouse's career and your children's education.

A higher salary might not translate into a higher savings potential if the taxes or the cost of living are high.

"Hidden costs need to be factored," says Kapil Gupta, CEO, Shella Consultants, a firm that specialises in international recruitments. "Free accommodation could exclude cost of utility bills. Commuting costs also need to be factored in if company is not providing transport," he says. The political situation needs to be considered too. . . .

Do your homework

Right from when you start searching, to when you get the job and leave the country, doing the due-diligence is crucial (see Checklist). The general rule is "If it is too good to be true, it probably is". Be wary of abnormally high salaries or improper selection criteria.

The world is your workplace. Grab the opportunity.

Checklist

• Choose a registered placement agency. If you are already going through one, find out the experiences of other candidates.
  
• Research your destination -- the economy of the country and prospects in your sector.
  
• Seek direct employment with the company.
  
• Research the company. Find out about their market share, vision, past record of treating employees.
  
• Get in-depth details of contract duration, terms and conditions of employment.
  
• Check with respective embassies about the authenticity and past records of the company.
  
• Get the job contract in hand before leaving.