The best tips, experiences and recommendations for working abroad

✈️ I want to work abroad but... I'm afraid it will look bad on my CV

Written by City Job Offers | May 21, 2025 12:04:10 PM

Let’s be honest — the fear is real.

“What if recruiters think I’m not serious?”
“Won’t it look like I’m just escaping responsibility?”
“It’s not a corporate job, does it even count?”
“Is it okay to take a job abroad if it’s not in my exact field?”

The truth? These are very common fears. And we’re here to tell you that none of them should stop you.

🧭 Because working abroad doesn’t damage your CV — it enriches it.

It shows future employers that you took a bold step, embraced discomfort, and grew through experience. Let’s break down what this really means, with practical examples and tips to highlight it on your CV.

🌱 What you really gain from working abroad — and how to explain it

✅ 1. Adaptability & resilience

Whether you’re relocating to Lisbon, Athens, or Sofia, life abroad teaches you how to adapt fast — to a new job, a new flat, a new way of life.

📍How to include it on your CV:

"Adapted quickly to a new cultural and professional environment while working in customer support for a multilingual tech company in Greece."

✅ 2. Language & communication skills

You’ll probably be working in English, and maybe even learning the basics of a local language — that’s a huge plus in international or remote companies.

📍How to include it on your CV:

"Developed strong professional communication skills in English and improved conversational Portuguese through daily interactions with clients and colleagues."

✅ 3. Cultural intelligence

Working in a diverse team abroad gives you emotional intelligence, empathy, and a better understanding of international workflows.

📍How to include it on your CV:

"Collaborated with cross-cultural teams across Europe, enhancing cultural awareness and interpersonal communication in a remote-first environment."

✅ 4. Initiative & problem-solving

From dealing with bureaucracy to figuring out a new city’s logistics, you become more independent and confident.

📍How to include it on your CV:

"Solved logistical challenges independently while relocating and adjusting to work life in a new country, demonstrating resourcefulness and initiative."

✅ 5. Transferable skills — even if the job isn’t in your exact field

Let’s say you're a marketing student who took a customer service job abroad. That doesn't mean you're “off track” — you're building a foundation of soft skills that matter in every career.

📍How to explain it in your CV or interview:

"Leveraged my communication and conflict-resolution skills in a customer-facing role, strengthening my foundation for future marketing and brand management positions."

🔍 But what if the job title doesn’t sound impressive?

Here’s a secret: Recruiters don’t hire titles — they hire value.

Whether you worked in customer support, as a content moderator, a nanny, or a waiter — what matters is what you learned and how you present it.

🎯 Working in a hotel in Spain?

"Gained hands-on experience in hospitality, time management, and multi-language communication in a high-demand seasonal environment."

🎯 Moderating content in a startup in Portugal?

"Managed sensitive online content and applied company guidelines while collaborating with international teams under tight deadlines."

🎯 Assisting at a kids’ club in Greece?

"Led group activities for children of diverse backgrounds, ensuring safety and engagement while communicating with international families daily."

💡 Bonus: How to group your international experience on your CV

If you’ve done several jobs abroad or taken a career detour, try adding a section like:

🌍 International Experience

Customer Service Agent – Lisbon, Portugal (Jan 2024 – Dec 2024)

  • Handled inbound inquiries for a global e-commerce platform

  • Worked with CRM tools and managed client data

  • Communicated daily with customers in English and German

Hotel Receptionist – Athens, Greece (Summer 2023)

  • Managed guest check-ins and bookings

  • Used booking systems and handled multilingual communication

  • Gained basic proficiency in Greek

This helps show continuity and intent, even if the jobs aren’t linear. You’re not “drifting” — you’re growing.

🚀 Final truth: It’s not a red flag. It’s a green light.

Taking the leap to work abroad shows employers that you’re:

✅ Brave
✅ Curious
✅ Motivated
✅ Open to challenges
✅ Equipped with life experience

You’re not stepping away from your career — you’re stepping up.

Ready to make your next move count?

🧳 Check out our latest job offers abroad and turn your fear into freedom.
👉 Browse international jobs at CityJobOffers

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