Do you dream of traveling for work?

What if I told you that you could not only travel for free, but you could get paid for it? What would you do to get a job that took you around the world? It might sound too good to be true, but trust me, it isn’t.

You probably know about some of these jobs. Pilots and flight attendants likely come to mind first, am I right? It’s true, these jobs do take you on adventures, but there are others jobs you probably haven’t even thought of.

I was paid to travel around the world when I worked for a global seed company. In just four years, I traveled to the Netherlands three times, India, Dubai, Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, Brussels and so many US cities that I lost track. There’s nothing like traveling when you’re getting paid to do it.

You might be surprised about some jobs that pay you to travel. You can work with a global company, if you so desire, following these key steps.

1. Uncover Your Industry
2. Uncover the Travel Profession for You
3. Create Your Career Plan
4. Network
5. Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter
6. Apply to Your Dream Job(s)
7. Interview Like a Pro and Snag the Job

Uncover Your Industry

What industry excites you? More businesses are moving worldwide. Some industries are already very globally focused; agriculture being one such industry.

Have you ever traveled outside the US and saw Coca Cola products? McDonald’s restaurants? Nike sneakers? Global companies are usually larger, but smaller companies go global too.

What kind of work interests you? Are you interested in becoming a scientist? If so, you might consider working for Bayer. Maybe you’re more into fashion. If so, Zara might be your jam.

If you want a job where you can travel around the world, you’ll want to work with a global business. A little research goes a long way here. Start by figuring out what companies sell products or services around the world. Then decide which of those light a fire in your soul.

Uncover the Travel Profession for You

A global industry doesn’t necessarily translate into a travel job. 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? You’ll need an answer to this question to know what opportunities you’ll want to jump on.

Research professions that fit your ideal amount of travel. Can’t find out how much travel they require? Do some networking and ask around. Keep in mind that the answers will likely vary, depending on who you ask and what company they work for. Don’t assume your dream job will be identical, but it’s still a good place to start.

Create Your Career Plan

Now that you’ve done your research, it’s time to prepare for the right opportunity.

Take inventory of your education, experience and skills. Where are you right now? Where do you want to be? Is there a gap? If so, you’ll need to focus on filling the gap first.

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, but your dream job might be worth it.

If you don’t have the time, resources, money – whatever – right now, then you might want to 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. 

Network

Networking can be massively helpful, even if you aren’t looking for work. In fact, I find that networking is more rewarding if I’m NOT looking for work.

People can be surprisingly helpful, especially if they know you’re interested in what they do. Sometimes it’s just a matter of finding the right person at the right time. Be sure to support those in your network too!

Networking can give you the leading edge with the right opportunity.

Prepare Your Resume

Make sure you spiff and shine the ‘ol resume before you hit submit. 

Check out a few templates here if you need help getting started.

Apply to Your Dream Job(s)

There are endless places online to find a job these days. LinkedIn and Indeed are just a few. Then there are a few websites that have specialties, like Dynamite Jobs with its focus on remote jobs. 

An unposted job might also be a match for you. This is where networking can truly be powerful. Build strong connections in your professional network BEFORE you begin your next job search.

Interview Like a Pro and Snag the Job

Need tips to prepare you for the big interview? Check out How to Interview Like a Pro. 

Remember: your dreams are worth it. Take action and turn them into reality.

CALL TO ACTION: Let Us Help You Find Your Dream Job