1. Your organisational skills become second to none
Whether you&’re going away for few weeks or several months, successfully planning travels abroad takes a huge amount of organisation; from coordinating flights and activities to overcoming language barriers and managing finances.
You will find yourself developing many skills useful for the workplace, such as negotiating, time management and the ability to adapt to scenarios outside of your comfort zone.
We recommend taking note of everything involved in planning your travels, this way you will be able to pinpoint to prospective employers exactly when and how you successfully used these skills.
2. You learn the lingo
Travelling is a fantastic way to get your language skills up to scratch, but what will really ensure you stand out from other adventurous grads, is detailing how you used your language skills.
Were you working as a teacher, stepping in as an interpreter for confused tourists or attempting to haggle a good deal with the locals?
Giving the context in which you used your language will give employers a better idea of your level of proficiency, as well as how your skills could translate to the workplace.
Find out why employers value languages and tips on how to learn a language.
3. You get a confidence boost
Navigating your way around any new place is a daunting prospect, but overcoming these challenges, you will often find yourself with a new found self confidence.
By stepping outside of your comfort zone and building your confidence on your travels, you may discover the transition into the working world is less daunting than you first thought.
4. You have new experiences
Are you able to arrange work placements in the countries you are travelling to? Having hands-on experience of another country’s business markets can prove very attractive to a prospective employer.
If you cannot get a work placement, look out for any volunteering opportunities available. Volunteering can boost your employability, and remember, the key with all experience is not just stating what you did, but how you made a difference.
5. You expand your network
Travelling gives you the opportunity to meet a huge range of different people, providing a great chance to network. Check out our tips for successful networking.
Why not have a set of business cards made with your LinkedIn profile address, complete with a blank side to write down any key contacts you make. You never know how these networks may help you land your dream graduate job. Before you give out your LinkedIn address make sure your profile is up to date! If you haven’t updated it already, use our tips for creating a good LinkedIn profile for extra help on this.
