Travel can be a thrilling adventure or a much needed relaxing getaway. But traveling can be so much more than that. Whether you’re taking a short vacation or an extended trip, you can turn your experience away from home into new career possibilities, improve your resume, and increase your value as an employee. Here are seven ways to improve your career with travel:

1. Teach.

You don’t have to have a degree in education to be a teacher. Teach whatever skills you excel in or anything you consider yourself an expert on. Offer to be a guest speaker at a high school, college, community center, or library. If you’re looking for more long-term travel, consider teaching your first language in another country.

2. Learn a language.

There’s no better way than to learn a language than by emerging yourself in it. Traveling to a foreign speaking country for an extended time is a great way to learn their language first hand. Whatever field you’re in, knowing another language makes you more marketable to future employers.

3.  Take a class.Photo: Frank

Whether you have time for an entire semester or just one day, look into taking an appropriate class or seminar. Check out colleges and universities to see what courses they offer. Community colleges and libraries can offer computer classes or life skills classes like budgeting. Hospitals, YMCA, and health centers likely offer classes on CPR and nutrition.

4.  Network.

Facebook and Twitter are fantastic ways to meet people and keep in touch, but nothing compares to networking face to face. Search LinkedIn and professional websites in your industry for networking events. Professional groups may be hosting events or meetings in the area. Reach out to alumni in the area, friends and former colleagues for anyone who they can put you in contact with.

5. Volunteer.

Volunteering is not only a terrific way to help people, but it can also add to your resume and work experience. Any volunteering shows you are an active, well-rounded person. For additional career benefits, volunteer in your related field of interest. Check out Volunteermatch.org to find the perfect opportunity that you’re interested in.

6. Get more work experience.

If you want to travel but can’t sacrifice an income, work while you’re away. See if your current employer has opportunities in other locations. Look for seasonal or temporary work on job search websites like Monster and Careerbuilder. If you have little experience or want to join a new field, take an internship.

 

 

7. Plan your trip.

Even the skills you attain while planning an extended trip can improve your resume. Organization, paying attention to details, and working independently are just a few of the skills you can spin to employers. You’re doing thorough research while looking for deals, using people skills while calling to negotiate deals and book reservations, and using financial skills while creating and sticking to a travel budget.

Kristen Kuchar

Kristen Kuchar

Kristen Kuchar is a freelance writer and editor who has learned how to save money without giving up a passion for travel, food, and living a fun life. She has written about personal finance for several years and graduated with a degree in Journalism. Follow her on Twitter @KristenKuchar.