The Trailing Spouse goes Back to Work
One of the greatest challenges expat spouses must face after repatriation is to successfully get back into the job market. Many expat spouses are not able to advance their professional careers as per normal when abroad and that consequently could result in obstacles when looking for a job once back home. It is imperative then to leverage on the experience gained abroad and, on the skills developed during the expatriation journey when postulating for a vacancy.
Trailing spouses should, first of all, inform themselves and conduct rigorous research regarding the current job market situation and prevailing recruitment practices. These hiring practices may have changed since the last time they applied for a job in their home country and they may need to sharpen their interviewing skills or craft a new more appropriate CV in order to be more appealing to recruiters and employers. A specialized coach in recruitment could help with this and guide better the process.
As mentioned before, they should also make sure to emphasize their experience abroad. They should mention and explain their international experience as well as any skills gained while abroad. If they embarked on volunteering or on learning activities during their expatriation time, they should make these relevant. Same applies for any diploma or certification obtained lately or for personal development achievements.
Expat spouses should also connect with their network of friends, ex colleagues or even relatives in order to acquire a deeper inside on how the local job market is moving and to find out what is currently on demand in their specific professional field. Things might have changed since the last time they were applying for a job and they may need to get some valuable insight before going in front of a recruiter or potential employer. The task is arduous but it will ensure a better result.