Today, we’ll avoid the standard “10 key points about international management consulting” post, and instead directly address a few questions.

What you need to know about the International Recruiting Process:

1. The United States interview process is very competitive. Does this hold true internationally?

In fact, it is. Often it is more competitive. It really depends a great deal on exactly which office you are applying to.

Another thing to keep in mind is the broader macroeconomic conditions. In the Middle East, there has been tremendous growth in the area of consulting. For this reason, it has been a bit easier to get through the process and be hired there as long as you meet some qualifying criteria.

Click here for some crucial business consulting cover letter advice!

2. If an applicant in the US wants to work in Berlin or Johannesburg, what is a good way to successfully compete?

Here are some points to remember:

-There are inflexible language requirements in some offices. For example, if you are interested in BCG in Seoul, you will be required to have high fluency in Korean. This is non-negotiable.

-It is important to have good contacts. When you have good US contacts, you have a better chance of getting noticed abroad. Networking is beneficial at every level. This is especially true if you can befriend some consultants who have experience working abroad. In this way you can learn about the environment of international consulting. Your contacts may also be able to introduce you to more overseas contacts.

Third: Is it possible to work in the US and then move overseas?

Of course! This is an excellent strategy unless you have some specific reason why you want to start your career overseas. If you only have a casual interest in the overseas market, of course it is best for you to start working in the US and then make a gradual transition by accepting one or two overseas jobs.

The majority of global consulting firms have fairly fluid inter-office transfer policies. It is mostly dependent on the quality of your work, which should be outstanding. Here are some tips about that:

-Always produce the best work possible. In this way you will build your reputation as being credible and reliable. If you want to be considered to work abroad, you must always do a very high quality of work. Also, cultivate support in-office and partnerships locally. All of these things will combine to support you when you apply for a transfer.

-Be sure to build relationships with international consultants. This is pretty easy after you have gained a position in a firm. Begin by communicating with consultants at the lower levels and move up. Show a friendly interest in their work as you do your research.

Click here for part 2 on foreign business and strategy consulting!