Grambling State News

“Globalization is a fact, because of technology, because of an integrated global supply chain, because of changes in transportation” ~ President, Barak Obama

In a world that grows more global by the minute, the rules of hiring and landing the perfect job are changing for job seekers in America and abroad. These days, Grambling State University professor, Dr. Carolyn Marshall-Jackson, is helping students across the world prepare for the new environment.

“Change is the only thing that’s constant,” said Dr. Jackson. “Today, companies are just as apt to hire based on one’s adaptability, culture and fit as they are to decide based on an applicant’s technical skills and knowledge.”

Dr. Jackson, who teaches in Grambling State’s Educational Leadership department, recently shared this message with 150 students and future businesses leaders across the world.

At the 2019 International Week hosted by Pole Universitaire Leonard de Vinci, she shared her lecture series Adaptability and Resilience: Essential Skills for Success in the Global Marketplace . Her course was designed to help engineering, computer science and digital media students prepare for today’s international job hunt and overcome what she says can be a secret career hurdle for those who want to work internationally.

“The soft skills it takes to be successful aren’t normally covered in sufficient depth in many degree programs. Many in highly sought-after fields, like engineering and business, have the technical knowledge it takes to be successful, but may lack other, equally as important soft skills,” said Dr. Jackson.

“Students also need to be skilled in translating that knowledge using skills that will allow for effective collaboration with those from different backgrounds.”

So, what are Dr. Jackson’s tips for those students aiming for international success? Here are her three top tips for landing and succeeding in your first international job:

Get Comfortable with Change

Dr. Jackson: The global marketplace has a tendency to change very rapidly. According to the National Centre for Universities and Business (2014), employers are seeking out potential employees who are “agile and can adapt to rapidly changing conditions”. Therefore success, be it here or abroad, is directly related to one’s ability to effectively adapt to job market changes -quickly and efficiently.

In the words of Robert Scoble, “change is inevitable and the disruption it causes often brings both inconvenience and OPPORTUNITY.” Viewing change as an opportunity is key. Be open-minded and willing to embrace change and explore the opportunity it brings – both during the job search and ultimately, within your career.

Embrace a Different View 

Dr. Jackson: Enhance skills that will lead to effective intercultural interactions and cultural adaptability: the willingness and ability to recognize, understand and work effectively across cultures.  Being knowledgeable and respectful of cultural differences is paramount in the international job search and are essential for success in the global marketplace. moreover, job seekers must be able to communicate effectively across cultures.

Believe in You and Employers Will Follow

Dr. Jackson: Believe in yourself – because in job searching efficacy is critical. One must believe that he or she has the capability to perform to obtain employment. This belief will also influence how well you perform job search behaviors including, resume writing and interview preparation. You can do it!

Congratulations to Dr. Jackson for her recent accomplishment. If you’d like to learn from Dr. Jackson, visit our Educational Leadership section to view courses, certificates, and degree opportunities.