What do employers value in international students and graduates?
For many international students and graduates, gaining work experience is an important step towards building a successful career.
International students can bring valuable skills and perspectives to the workplace. Ben and Cecilia from Australian Catholic University (ACU) regularly hire international students for roles at the university. We spoke with them about what they value and how you can stand out.
Ben and Cecilia say that “International students bring diverse perspectives, adaptability and a global mindset that enrich team culture and innovation. Their experiences often reflect resilience and a strong work ethic, which are highly valued by employers.”
Your background and approach to problem-solving can be valuable assets. They can help you contribute new ideas and perspectives to an organisation.For many international students and graduates, gaining work experience is an important step towards building a successful career.
Ben and Cecilia from Australian Catholic University (ACU) regularly hire international students for roles at the university. We spoke with them to get tips on standing out.
How to showcase your unique value:
- Reflect on your cultural experiences and how they shape your unique perspective.
- Emphasise any teamwork or leadership roles where your global outlook has contributed to success.
- Highlight your language skills, cross-cultural competencies and international networks that might benefit the hiring business.
What skills and qualities do employers look for?
When hiring, employers don’t just search for skills on paper. They also look for people with the right mindset.
According to the ACU team, they look for individuals who are adaptable and committed to the organisation’s purpose. Curiosity, collaboration and a drive to deliver excellent service matter most.
Above all, alignment with the organisation’s mission and values is key. Employers want people who care deeply about making a meaningful difference in their work and beyond. Showing this commitment is just as important as showcasing your technical abilities.
Top 5 tips for demonstrating what employers want:
- Research the organisation’s mission, values and recent projects before interviews, and be ready to explain how you could support their goals.
- Show enthusiasm for the role and explain how it aligns with your experience and values.
- Prepare examples of when you adapted quickly to change or solved unexpected problems.
- Stay informed about diverse workplace practices and note where you have worked well in diverse teams and learned from others (including study projects or group assignments).
- Ask thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation.
Stand out in your job application
To make your application stand out follow these practical application tips:
- Customise your resume and cover letter for each job and make sure you address the key selection criteria set out in the job ad.
- Remember to include a cover letter that tells your story and explains why you would be a great fit for the job.
- Explain your motivation for applying and how you align with the organisation’s values.
- Clear, concise language helps your achievements shine. Be authentic and avoid generic sentences from AI.
- Use numbers to back up your successes if you can, such as “improved sales/ customer satisfaction by 20%”.
- Proofread carefully and use an app like Grammarly to check your spelling and grammar.
- Get feedback on your application from a teacher or mentor before submitting.
- If you haven't had any paid work experience, try to get involved in volunteering or internships and add that to your resume.
Build your employability and career readiness skills
Employers value more than technical skills. They also look for adaptability, communication skills, curiosity and a willingness to learn. By highlighting your strengths and preparing well, you can improve your chances of success when applying for jobs during or after your studies.
Explore these Study Australia resources to help you build your skills and prepare for work: