The summer job season is in full swing, and you've set your sights on working abroad this year. Whether you're seeking a short-term position or a temporary contract, making a strong impression is key to landing the job. So, how can you catch the attention of foreign recruiters? And how can you adapt to the culture of your host country? Here's what you need to know to present yourself effectively and confidently navigate your international experience.
Format your application to match local standards
Before you start applying, remember that a 鈥渃urriculum vitae鈥� (CV) and a 鈥渞esume鈥� aren't quite the same鈥攅ven though both are meant to showcase your experience to a recruiter. A CV typically gives a detailed, chronological look at your entire career. A resume, by contrast, is shorter and zeroes in on what's most relevant.
In short, CVs are often longer and more descriptive, while resumes are more like snapshots designed to catch attention quickly. Think of the resume as a marketing tool鈥攃oncise, targeted, and recruiter-friendly. The CV, meanwhile, leans more toward being a complete record of your professional journey.
Keep in mind that every country has its own expectations when it comes to job applications. To make a strong first impression, take the time to learn how CVs or resumes are typically structured in your host country鈥攁nd tailor yours accordingly.
Avoid the 鈥渓ist of past jobs鈥� CV
It might be tempting to include every job you've ever had, thinking it will impress a foreign recruiter. But that approach can backfire. A CV that just lists positions without context can feel flat and unconvincing.
Recruiters aren't looking for a complete work history鈥攖hey want to quickly understand if you're the right fit for the role. If your experience fills two pages, focus on what matters most. Highlight the roles that best match the position and craft a clear, targeted profile that speaks to the job you're applying for abroad.
Show your interest in the host country
Your reasons for applying abroad might seem obvious鈥攜ou want to improve your English (or another language), explore a new country, or try out life abroad through a temporary job. But are those reasons clear to the recruiter?
Your application should answer one key question: why should the recruiter choose you? Why you and not another expat, or simply a local?
Avoid sending out generic cover letters to multiple companies in different countries. Instead, personalize your CV and motivation for each job application.
Highlight relevant professional experiences
Recruiters have less and less time to review CVs鈥攁nd increasingly, it's AI tools that screen them first. To make it through the filter, focus on the professional experiences that matter most.
Choose roles that align with the employer's needs and reflect your international profile. Describe your responsibilities clearly, and whenever possible, back them up with measurable results. The goal is for the employer to understand your impact at a glance.
Use strong, relevant keywords tied to the job you're applying for. This helps both human recruiters and automated systems see the value you bring.
Showcase other valuable experiences
In some cultures, non-professional experiences carry just as much weight as your work history鈥攖hings like playing a sport or a musical instrument, taking part in creative activities, or volunteering. The key is knowing how to present them.
Avoid vague statements like 鈥淚 play basketball鈥� or 鈥淚 help the elderly.鈥� Be specific. What role do you play on the team? Did you compete abroad or win any tournaments? As a volunteer, what exactly do you do to support seniors?
Your summer job or temporary position could also be a chance to share these interests and connect with others.
And don't overlook your student projects. Reports, research papers, group work鈥攃hoose the most relevant examples and highlight the soft skills you developed along the way.
Talk (effectively) about your travels
Your goal is to reassure the recruiter鈥攁nd travel experiences, even as a tourist, can be a real asset. Whether it's a Working Holiday Visa, a study abroad program, a language stay, or even a short vacation, every trip has value. Don't overlook experiences just because they were brief or close to home.
What matters is how you talk about them. Recruiters don't need a day-by-day rundown鈥攖hey want to hear what you learned and how those experiences shaped you. Focus on the takeaways that highlight your strengths.
For example, if you're applying to be an activity leader at a resort, show your energy and enthusiasm when describing your travels. Did you try new sports? Join or lead group activities? That's the kind of detail worth including.
Show that you know how to learn independently
Foreign recruiters often look for candidates who can work independently. One of the best ways to show this is by highlighting the skills you've picked up outside of formal education.
Have you taken language exams or earned computer certifications on your own? Have you completed any independent training? Have you taught yourself something in a specific field?
If so, say it clearly. Independence and adaptability go hand in hand鈥攁nd both are highly valued when working abroad.
Pay attention to your writing style
Enthusiasm isn't just something you show in person鈥攊t also comes through in your writing. Use language that fits the job you're applying for. If you're going for a customer-facing role, let your energy and motivation come across in the way you write.
At the same time, adjust your tone to match the country's cultural norms. Short, clear sentences are usually a good choice. But be careful not to cross the line between enthusiastic and overly familiar. Stay professional, even if it's a summer or short-term job. A casual tone can make you seem less serious.
Extra tips to land a job abroad
Don't underestimate the power of soft skills. These human and social qualities can really set you apart. For a summer job, recruiters often look for key interpersonal traits: team spirit, kindness, empathy, politeness, good communication, openness to feedback, and a willingness to learn. Chances are, you'll be working with the public or as part of a team鈥攕o show that you can adapt to different situations with ease. Also, don't wait until July to start applying, especially if you're aiming for roles in hospitality, leisure centers, or theme parks. Make sure your application is well-presented. And be honest about your language skills鈥攄on't exaggerate your level of English or any other language. Stay truthful and confident.
