Although the Colombian is valued for his attitude and hard work, the paperwork sometimes hinders his international projection. “The Colombian is recognized abroad for his hard work, perseverance, positivism and because we are hardworking people, however, it is not easy to get work abroad,” warns Betty Encinales, an expert in recruitment.
Difficulties with visas and language management are the main obstacles to overcome. Without these ‘problems’, how to start the search? “The first thing I would recommend to that person who wants to go to work abroad is to investigate the country where he wants to live. And if possible, do an internship or volunteer there, because many really don’t know anything about the country and have utopian ideas about them.”
Ximena Quiroga, specialist in selection processes at MPS Partners, complements this idea: “You should not think that you are going to have the same professional status, unless the company directly asks you. We must keep in mind the migration issue and recognize that Colombians are hardworking, generators of ideas and have initiative.”
It is advisable to inquire about the labor demand that exists in the country to which you want to go. Knowing the real job opportunities is vital to avoid false illusions. “There are countries that are in demand in the technology sector,” exemplifies Encinales. It is possible to identify these labor needs in local web portals, talking to their own contacts or referrals, in social networks and in employment exchanges of the possible country of destination.
It is also valid to contact companies directly, ideally Human Resources departments, to find out if they are willing to hire someone from abroad. In the same way, to embassies and non-profit or educational organizations that promote scholarships, exchanges or even offer job offers.
It should be understood thatthe situation is generally not equal to nationals. They are the ones who have priority for companies. “Mexico, the United States or England employ nationals first and then people of other nationalities. The competition is very great. The papers still cost companies money and the process is a bit long to employ a person from another country, whether Colombian or from another place, “adds Encinales.
“It’s not impossible to get work abroad,” says Encinales, who advises Colombians tothink about intermediate foreign cities. “The popular ones, like London or New York, have a lot of competition and it’s harder to get a job. In the United States, for example, “I would recommend going to Seattle or Austin; in England, Liverpool or Manchester (…) There are many other places in the world, like the Emirates, or think of China, where there is a lot of demand.”
According to the expert, it is preferable to look for work in small or medium-sized companies, which have expansion projects and need the Spanish language. “Large companies are in too much demand and the selection processes are very long,” he says.