What are my chances of getting a job overseas?

The marketing, advertising and PR industry has become increasingly international, and opportunities exist all over the world. Huge, multinational marketing groups own many large agencies and PR consultancies. With many brands marketed all over the world, international campaigns are common for major clients.

However, the increasing use of technology, such as email and internet/video-conferencing, means global communication is instant. Consequently, the majority of people employed in marketing, advertising and PR will remain in the UK for most of their career.

The amount of contact you have with overseas clients and the opportunities to work abroad will largely depend on the organisation that employs you. Some companies provide secondments overseas and, at senior level, the chance to set up a new office abroad.

To work in marketing, advertising and PR in another country, you need to:

• be aware of the culture of the country;
• understand the local markets and media for that country;
• have the necessary language skills.

Will my qualifications be recognised?

Professional marketing, advertising and PR qualifications gained via the relevant professional body, for example Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) , Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA) , Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR)  and The Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing (IDM) , are recognised around the world, which allows qualified professionals a truly global career path.

The following websites include links to international professional bodies that can advise you on desirable qualifications in the relevant industries in their countries:

• International Advertising Association (IAA) ;
• International Public Relations Association ;
• CIM - international offices in 11 countries outside the UK, which can advise on the portability of qualifications.

Where are the opportunities?

Multinational firms are the best way of getting an overseas opportunity at graduate level. Some large, international organisations, for example Saatchi & Saatchi and TBWA, have a network of offices throughout the world. Local companies often prefer to recruit locally as understanding the market gives new recruits a head start.

There are more opportunities for UK graduates in English-speaking countries or in countries where you can speak the native language fluently.