How a traineeship abroad can help kick-start your career

Test the career path of your choice

Not all of us know what we want to do when we graduate. Regardless of whether you are still figuring things out or your field of study was quite general, a traineeship abroad is a great opportunity to try out whether a certain career path is right for you. Being in a foreign country and outside your comfort zone will allow you to better focus on your work. That way you can get a clear idea of whether you want to continue your journey on this career path.

When you are considering doing a traineeship abroad, think about your skills, background and what type of work you would enjoy doing. Do not forget that our EURES Advisers are available to help you with any questions you might have about doing a traineeship abroad. They can help you with advice on finding a traineeship, your application and interview, and potential funding (if available).

Learn new skills

One of the most direct benefits of doing a traineeship abroad is learning a number of essential professional skills. You have the chance to learn not just skills directly related to your field of work, but also general professional skills like task prioritisation, time management and professional etiquette. If you are in a country where you must use your non-native language, see this as an opportunity to improve your language skills. Lastly, when you are updating your CV do not forget to add any specific tools or programmes that you learnt to use during your traineeship.

Expand your world view

Nothing broadens your horizons more than a mid- or long-term stay abroad. Doing a traineeship in another country will teach you a lot more than just professional skills. Being on your own in a foreign country will help you become more independent and confident. This experience can teach you to be more self-reliant and resourceful. Talking to people with different backgrounds will also improve your intercultural communication skills. Independence, resourcefulness, initiative, cultural awareness and communication – these are all skills that will not only make you a better person but also a better employee.

Become more employable

By doing a traineeship abroad, you are already a step ahead of your peers. Not only does a traineeship equip you with relevant professional experience and loads of useful skills, doing it abroad shows you have extra dedication and resilience. These are all factors that will help your CV stand out from the rest of the applicants when you are applying for your first full-time job.

Expand your professional network

Your traineeship will likely introduce you to other professionals in your field. Do not miss the chance to introduce yourself and make a good first impression and tell them about your future career plans. You never know where a good job opportunity might come from. And make sure you add them on LinkedIn so you can keep in touch even after your traineeship.

Learn about different traineeship opportunities available to young people in the EU.

In partnership with EURES, the European Job Mobility Portal.

Related links:

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The European Year of Youth: Traineeships

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