Recruiting Strategy

Office Selection

International Candidates

Can a US university student recruit directly for Middle East consulting offices?

I'm graduating from a strong US university but want to recruit for Dubai, Riyadh or Abu Dhabi rather than the US. I have some regional ties and Arabic ability. How feasible is it to apply directly to Middle East offices from a US school?

Ian’s Answer

Yes, absolutely!Your profile seems to work well for it.Remember, networking is going to be key for this transition.1.How feasible can that be? Have you ever heard of students in the US doing a similar move?I think it's definitely feasible for you. I have a student right now that is actually doing that exact move.2. I would say that I am proficient in Arabic and have friends in the region so the transition shouldn't be hard for me. I have a couple of high school connections (even some family members) that work at target offices there, but only a few of my university graduates work in the region (some have done an MBA here), would that be an issue when it comes to networking and brand recognition? Not an issue at all! Connect with all of them.3.Would coming from a top university in the US be an advantage in recruiting for the region? Would "target" universities in the US also be considered “target” universities in the region and worldwide? (I heard that offices in the region love to attract foreign talent, especially as some are currently expanding into Saudi Arabia).I would say yes, but depends on which school and what recognition it has in the Middle East. But, in general, Middle East absolutely wants top US talent.

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