Information Systems Jobs Abroad

Finding gainful employment abroad in information systems is the best gig around (even better than 1000 megabytes). You’ll load up on meaningful work experience, earn some cache (er, cash) in your pocket, and learn how to navigate an international environment professionally and personally.

In an in-demand field like information systems, you’re in the fortunate position to be able to find career-relevant, paid work abroad. If you’ve always dreamed of venturing down under, but your strict college curriculum didn’t make room for it, there is no better time than now. Or, if you’ve never really thought about it, but you somehow stumbled upon this article anyway, maybe it’s a sign (or is it cosine?). Let’s just say, not all fields lend themselves to the possibility of working abroad quite like this one— you can even find information systems jobs at entry level! Take advantage of it.

In an increasingly interconnected and multicultural world, understanding how to work across languages and cultures has become more important than ever. Not to say you can’t learn this skill at home, but when you work abroad, you’re constantly forced to stretch beyond your comfort zone, and fluency is practically guaranteed. It may throw you off your game at first, but once you crack the code, your confidence will be through the roof.

Luckily computers speak a universal language of ones and zeros, so there are no boundaries as to where you can pursue information systems jobs abroad. A few locations stand out, though, as particular draws for techies.

Now that you’ve made the decision to work abroad, you might as well do it right. Why go to a boring English-speaking destination when you can go to China? With the relatively low cost of living and high salaries, you’ll have money left over to spruce up your business casual wardrobe. Beijing is brimming with opportunity for information systems positions. In the heart of the city lies Tiananmen Square, but the explorations don’t end there. Head out of town to the Summer Palace, and of course, the Great Wall is a must-see site. As the commercial and financial center of the country, Shanghai is another sure bet. Outside of your accounting information systems jobs, you can get lost among the skyscrapers in Pudong, or wander the trendy streets in the Puxi district.

The technology sector is growing rapidly in Ireland, leading to a wealth of opportunities for the self-proclaimed computer geek. Dublin, nicknamed the “City of Villages,” features distinct neighborhoods within the capital city. Home to tech powerhouses such as Google and Facebook as well as startups galore, innovation is alive and well here. On the west coast, cobblestoned Galway is known as Ireland’s “cultural heart,” with its arts scene and street musicians. The tech boom lead to an influx of business information systems jobs; when paired with the rolling green countryside and appealing pub culture, Ireland distinguishes itself an ideal spot to work abroad.

Australia sells itself with its sun and surf, and being an island and all, its miles and miles of incredible beaches. Also, there are kangaroos and koalas. But it’s a great destination to jumpstart information systems careers as well. Australia’s economy is an important one and is closely interconnected with Asia. Stick to the bigger cities for the most work options. In Sydney, soak up the diverse surroundings and take in the views of the Sydney Opera House. The city draws lots of interns and expats working abroad, so you’ll quickly find your niche. Or, set up shop in Melbourne, considered the cultural capital of the country. It’s artsy, livable vibe is sure to entice you to stay.

Jobs abroad in information systems run the gamut from coding to programming, sales to analysis. Virtually any company or organization that utilizes information systems facilities will need experts to make it all run smoothly. Therefore, potential employers for computer information systems jobs are endless. Narrowing in on your particular strength or interest will help you plug-in to the right type of job.

In the private sector, look for work at consultancy firms, internet service providers, or telecommunications companies. If you already have a position at home, consider asking your existing company if there are any opportunities overseas. Transferring within the same company could be a real possibility. If you’re more interested in the nonprofit or public sector, local and central governments and secondary and higher education institutions are key places to begin your search.

Expect the work environment to mirror the culture of the country where you are based, and be sure to give yourself time to become familiar with the work culture. Information systems jobs overseas have varying expectations regarding the number of hours you work per week, email policies, and interoffice relationships, for example. It requires a little patience and a willingness to ask questions to learn the workings of your new office environment.

It takes more than artificial intelligence to succeed in information systems jobs entry level positions; you’ll be expected to work hard. So, if working abroad has visions of lazy beach days and mai tais dancing in your mind, shake that out of there and think about meetings and deadlines instead.

That’s right, no matter how you look at it, it’s still a job. In fact, working abroad is in many ways more challenging than working at home because you have the added dimension of learning a new culture and perhaps a new language. Hey, even something so simple as mailing a letter can become complicated in a foreign country. Where do you buy stamps? How many? When is the post office open? What’s the word for post office?

On the other hand, during your free time, you can totally walk the Great Wall, or snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, or explore ancient castles. You get the picture. Those places you’ve always dreamed of going? You can go there! Information systems jobs overseas are a real-life way to pay for your pipe dreams. Rather than spending your weekends watching your cat chase another ball of yarn, you’ll be out there living life to the fullest.

Take your expertise to the next level, enhance your resume, and see the world. In less time than it takes for a webpage to download, you could be on your way to pursuing your information systems career abroad.