How to Get a Job Where You Can Travel: 7 Steps to Achieve the Dream
Do you dream of traveling around the world? What would you do to get a job where you can travel? If this sounds too good to be true, keep reading because I promise you, it isn’t.
What if I told you that you could not only travel around the world for free, but you could get paid to do it? When most people think about travel jobs, they might think about pilots or flight attendants. It’s true, these jobs do allow you to travel, but there are others in addition to these.
I’ve been getting paid to travel around the world for nearly 4 years. I work for a global seed company in a department that shares methods between the US, Netherlands and India. Since I started with the company, I’ve traveled to India, the Netherlands, Dubai, Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, Brussels and numerous cities in the US. Nothing beats getting paid to see the world.
It might seem like a pipe dream, but you might be surprised about the variety of jobs where you can travel. How do you work with one of these businesses, you might wonder? You can work with one of these global businesses, if you so desire, following the steps below.
- Research Industries and Companies
- Research Professions that Require Travel
- Create a Career Plan
- Network in Your Areas of Interest
- Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter
- Apply to Jobs in Your Field of Interest
- Interview Like a Pro and Snag the Job
Research Industries and Companies
Not all businesses are global, but more and more businesses are quickly becoming global. Some industries are very globally focused; seed business being one such industry.
There are others, however. Have you ever traveled to a foreign country only to be surprised to catch global brands like Coca Cola, McDonald’s or Nike? Larger companies typically make up globally focused businesses, but that isn’t always the case.
What kind of work interests you? Are you interested in becoming a scientist? If so, you might want to consider working for a global business like Bayer. Maybe you’re more interested in fashion. If so, you might want to consider working for a company like Zara.
If you want a job where you can travel around the world, you’ll want to work with a global business. Do your research to find out which companies sell products or services around the world first!
Research Professions and Find A Dream Job Where You Can Travel
Working for a global company doesn’t necessarily mean you will have a job where you can travel. Some jobs are location dependent and have no need for travel. Then there are jobs that require minimal travel and others that require extensive travel.
What is your ideal amount of travel? Is it enough to travel once a year, or would you rather be constantly on the go? It’s important to have an answer to this question as this will shape the opportunities that are practical for your needs and interests.
Research professions that fit your ideal amount of travel. Can’t find out how much travel they require? Consider doing some networking and ask around. Keep in mind that there may be some variation depending on who you ask and what company they work for. Don’t assume your situation will be identical, but it’s still a good place to start.
Create a Career Plan: Preparation for a Job Where You Can Travel
Now that you’ve done your research, it’s time to prepare yourself for the right opportunity.
Take inventory of your education, experience and skills. Where are you at right now and where do you want to be? Is there a gap? If so, you’ll need to focus on filling the gap.
Where you are —–(GAP)—-> Where you want to be
If education is your gap, you might need more schooling. If it’s skills, then you may need more experience. Both can be difficult to obtain, and they often require dedication and hard work.
If this isn’t feasible for you now, consider another career that’s more closely lined up with your current education, skills and experience. But don’t give up hope if you don’t have what you need yet; skills and education are obtainable if you’re willing and able to put in the work.
Network in Your Areas of Interest
With a career plan in place, you’re ready to take the next step. Networking can be beneficial wherever you’re at in your career, even if you aren’t looking for a job. In fact, it’s often better if you’re not looking for work yet.
You might be surprised how willing people are to help. Sometimes it’s just a matter of finding the right person at the right time. Be sure to offer your own support and return the favor, if anyone asks!
Networking can give you the leading edge into your next career opportunity.
Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter
You will want to tailor your resume and cover letter for each job you apply to. Highlight the skills on your resume that are relevant for the job and use similar language where practical.
Check out a few templates here if you need help getting started.
Apply to Jobs Where You Can Travel in Your Field of Interest
There are numerous job search websites. LinkedIn, Indeed, and Monster are just a few. Then there are a few websites that focus on remote opportunities like Pangian and Dynamite Jobs. A simple Google search can usually get you a good job search website.
There may also be unposted jobs that are a good match for you. This is where networking can truly be powerful. Build strong connections in your professional network and be willing to help in return when the opportunity comes around!
Interview Like a Pro and Snag the Job Where You Can Travel
Need tips to prepare you for the big interview? Check out How to Interview Like a Pro. If all works in your favor, you’ll get the job. If it doesn’t then don’t despair as there’s likely to be another opportunity that’s a better match for you.
Still struggling? Let me know how I can help.
What resonated with you? What lingering questions do you have? Let me know by commenting below or send me a message on the contact page. I look forward to joining you on your journey to success!