Forum - Ask the Hiring Manager

QUESTION:

Dear Brian,

I am a foreign student. I will have my MBA degree in May. Since I'm going back to Saudi Arabia after graduation, I am thinking to look for a job at any of the multinational American companies which are working in the Middle East because most of these companies are usually looking for a native managers. So, my main competitive advantage is that I had my degree in the U.S and I am fluent in Arabic and English. I want to know what is the best way to contact these companies? And should I contact them here or after I go back?

From: Wael Hammad, Graduate Student, Creighton University


ANSWER FROM BRIAN KRUEGER:

Hi Wael -

Get your hands on a copy of "Directory of American Firms Operating in Foreign Countries" (Uniworld Business Publications, 50 E. 42nd St., New York, NY 10017). It will be worth it's weight in gold to you in your job search.

You're right--you are an excellent candidate for overseas work--you know the area, you know the language, the culture, etc. But most important to a U.S. company is stability. That's where you're from, that's where you want to be. Most U.S. employees who work overseas typically only do so temporarily. Large cost in travel, relo, training, and eventual reassimilation. You should have an excellent advantage.

In answer to your last question, definitely make contact while you are still here. Although the actual work may be there, some of the interviewing may need to take place here in the U.S. And never wait to start your job search until after graduation--often some of the best jobs are already taken by then.

Good luck in your search!

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All job search information at this forum is provided by Brian Krueger, author of the book College Grad Job Hunter, the definitive guide for college grad job search. Used by permission of the author.