What Employers Value Most in Graduates with International Study Experience

In an increasingly globalized world, preparing young professionals for the international job market is essential. A groundbreaking report, Closing the Employer Gap on Global Skills Gained Through Mobility, sheds light on how international study experiences shape employability from an employer’s perspective. Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and administered by Colleges and Institutes Canada, the report is a collaborative effort to understand the real-world value of global exposure in shaping Canadian graduates’ career prospects.

Conducted by Expertise in Labour Mobility (ELM), the research used semi-structured interviews with employers across diverse industries in Canada. The findings reveal what employers truly value in graduates who have studied abroad and how these experiences can translate into tangible career advantages.

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Key Skills Employers Look for

The report highlights the top five skills employers prioritize in recent graduates:

1. Communication Skills
2. Adaptability
3. Problem-Solving Abilities
4. Teamwork
5. Time- and Self-Management

These skills, often honed through international experiences, align closely with the demands of today’s job market. While employers acknowledge the benefits of studying abroad, they emphasize that the ability to articulate these skills effectively during job applications and interviews is crucial.

“International exposure fosters self-confidence and independence. It enhances social skills through cultural immersion, significantly improving interpersonal abilities,” noted Catherine McBride, one of the employers interviewed.

Another employer, Tereza Cairns, added, “Resumes with international experiences reflect adaptability and the ability to step out of one’s comfort zone, which are invaluable traits in any workplace.”

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Why Soft Skills Matter

While technical expertise remains important, the report underscores that soft skills carry more weight for recent graduates. Employers view traits like enthusiasm, motivation, and the ability to engage with diverse teams as critical for success.

Studying abroad fosters several of these soft skills:

• Intercultural Competence: By interacting with people from various backgrounds, students gain the ability to navigate cultural nuances effectively.
• Self-Confidence and Independence: Living in a new country builds resilience and self-reliance, traits that employers value in high-pressure environments.
• Open-Mindedness: Exposure to different perspectives enhances graduates’ ability to think creatively and empathize with diverse viewpoints.

“International experiences offer a lens to understand global issues and develop self-awareness,” said Binu Saradakutty, emphasizing the broader impact of global exposure.

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The Importance of Showcasing Skills

Despite the benefits of international mobility, simply having studied abroad is not enough to secure employment. Employers expect graduates to demonstrate how these experiences have equipped them with relevant skills. Clear communication during interviews and on resumes is essential.

Teaching students how to effectively showcase the skills gained through international mobility is a critical recommendation of the report. Whether it’s through a well-crafted cover letter or during interviews, the ability to highlight transferable skills can significantly enhance employability.

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Implications for Education and Employment

The report concludes that aligning the skills gained from studying abroad with employer expectations is vital. It emphasizes the role of higher education institutions in guiding students on how to communicate these skills effectively.

By increasing the number of students who experience international mobility, Canada can cultivate a more globally aware workforce, ultimately boosting its economy. Employers also value graduates who engage in community tasks or volunteer work during their time abroad, as these activities demonstrate adaptability and social responsibility.

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Bridging the Gap

As part of Canada’s International Education Strategy, the Global Skills Opportunity program aims to bridge the gap between education and employment. Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada, this initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing outbound student mobility and equipping graduates with the skills required in a globalized workforce.

The report is not just a call to action for students but also for educators and employers to work collaboratively in preparing future professionals. Graduates who can effectively showcase their international experiences will not only stand out but also thrive in today’s interconnected job market.

For a deeper dive into the findings and actionable recommendations, the full report offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of global employability.