International Business Careers

An international business career allows you to influence policies and operations in companies, countries, and markets worldwide. So a degree in international business from an accredited university can set you on the right trajectory to a career in this field.

A career path in this field could lead you to work with multinational businesses, international organizations, the WTO, and even the United Nations. Your degree in a related field can position you for career success in helping organizations navigate complicated multicultural issues.

International business majors can land various profitable jobs both domestically and internationally by demonstrating highly specialized cross-cultural and communication skills.

Read on to get all the information you need for a career in international business.

Why Choose International Business?

A career in international business enables individuals to travel the world and network with prominent business figures, influence policies, and fill cultural gaps.

While the job is demanding, people in international business careers are well-positioned for professional advancement opportunities in multiple industries and markets.

How to Start your International Business Journey

A degree in international business positions you for various professional options since it demonstrates your capacity for cross-cultural collaboration and your comprehension of how doing business impacts the world economy.

Businesses that operate globally strongly value these skills. Domestic companies that work across multicultural communities need people with international business expertise.

Education Requirements

Associate Degree

Associate degrees in international business require about 60 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete.

Associate degree holders in international business must complete fundamental courses like finance, accounting, and microeconomics.

These graduates are qualified for entry-level positions with global firms, such as Marketing assistants, Sales representatives, etc.

Bachelor's Degree

Students who enroll in these programs scrutinize global business principles and develop cross-cultural communication competencies.

Graduates who enjoy analysis and finance can work as budget analysts, management analysts, etc. Those with natural predispositions for sales and advertising can pursue jobs as international sales managers, marketing managers, and international trade specialists.

Master's Degree

Graduates looking to land executive positions in international business can enroll in a master's degree program.

A master's degree in international business can lead to fantastic job opportunities that allow you to travel and work with clients worldwide.

Doctorate in International Business

Doctoral programs in international business prepare students for careers in academia. That can be in university settings or leading training and development teams in multinational corporations.

Doctoral degree-holders looking to work outside academia can pursue senior-level positions in business, government, and healthcare industries.

Employment Prospects

International business graduates qualify for various high-demand roles with high job satisfaction ratings.

With your associate's or bachelor's degree, you can work in an entry position with room for advancement.

Demand for employment in business and financial occupations enjoys 980,200 openings each year, on average.

International Business Career Forecast

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the number of overall employment in business and financial occupations to grow by 7% from 2021 to 2031.

Most International business roles pay over $76,000, with several openings yearly.

How to Boost your International Business Career

There are numerous ways to improve professionally in the field of international business.

Although obtaining a degree can teach you business basics, it may be challenging to impart in the classroom the practical expertise gained from working in business environments.

In addition, setting yourself up in a highly competitive field like business frequently involves industry experience, different credentials, and professional networking.

Lucrative International Business Career Paths

International Business is an extensive field with various career paths and job prospects in different sectors.

Here are some of the international business careers.

Economist

An economist examines the connection between a society's resources and its output or production.

Economists research various social systems, including local communities, entire countries, and even the global economy.

Economists' professional decisions and research findings shape policies, including interest rates, tax laws, employment programs, international trade agreements, and company strategy.

Average Salary

Economists earn a median annual salary of $80,402. 

Roles and Responsibilities

• Research economic issues

• Conduct surveys and collect data

• Interpret and forecast market trends

• Advise businesses, governments, and individuals on financial topics

• Recommend solutions to financial problems

Industries Employing Economist

• Government

• Health

• Trade Organization

Human Resources Manager

The human resources manager oversees policies, protocols, and compliance relating to employees for their organization.

They ensure all human resources actions comply with local, state, and federal laws and implement and oversee employee benefits and initiatives programs.

They do this on a global scale.

Average Salary

Human resources managers earn a median annual salary of $70,088.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Analyze, coordinate and integrate jobs, benefits, appraisals, HR policies and procedures, etc.

• Update employee database with designation changes

• Manage immigration and H1-b visa processing for employees.

• Ensure compliance with recruitment law

Industries Employing Human Resources Managers

• Government

• Non-profit organisation

• Sales and Marketing

• Construction and property

Management Analyst

A management analyst explores ways to help an organization reduce costs, boost revenue, and become more profitable.

They educate management on various ways to improve efficiency.

Average Salary

Management Analysts earn a median annual salary of $69,143.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Collect and organize information about the issues to be solved

• Analyze revenue, expenditure, and employment reports

• Recommend new systems, procedures, or organizational changes

Industries Employing Management Analysts

• Technical consulting services

• Management

• Trusts and investments

• Insurance carriers

International Marketing Manager

(100 words)

An international marketing manager maximizes their firm's global market share and yields.

Specializing in the field of global marketing requires being conscious of global market trends and developing products that are internationally accepted.

International marketing managers also work to establish competitive and profitable pricing strategies.

They work to develop a marketing plan that will work globally.

Average Salary

Marketing managers earn a median annual salary of $68,507.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Develop, manage and organize all marketing materials

• Initiate strategic decisions and manage development

• Prepare and manage international proposals.

Industries Employing International Marketing Managers

• Marketing

• Advertising

• Manufacturing

International Trade Analyst

An international trade analyst identifies and evaluates information on trade and economic matters.

And this is related to the competitive position of a company or country compared to others within a particular sector.

Average Salary

International trade analysts earn a median annual salary of $61,795.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct studies that identify new trends

• Develop and implement systems to take advantage of the trends

• Process import and export ruling requests and oversees custom filings.

• Support in procuring necessary licenses and agreements for trading.

Industries Employing International Trade Analysts

• Government

• Investment services

• Finance

International Business Development Manager

International Business Managers supervise a company's global operations.

They are accountable for all of a company's foreign business, cultural marketing, international sales, or overseas manufacturing.

Average Salary

International business development managers earn a median annual salary of $76,366.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Plan a company's global strategy.

• Hire and delegate authority to implement new policies and practices

• Oversee specific departments in sales, marketing, or finance and compliance for their respective division's foreign operation

• Understand the company's needs abroad as well as the cultural, political and operational challenges of foreign markets and available opportunities

• Monitor foreign financial markets

Industries Employing International Business Development Managers

• Corporations

• Finance

• Government

• Trust and investment

• Marketing

Policy Analyst

Policy analysts work to adjust or implement new public policies, regulations, and laws.

They often work directly in government or non-government organizations that lobby for policy adjustments.

Also, some for-profit companies employ policy analysts to help navigate regulation and political action in good ways.

Average Salary

Policy analysts earn a median annual salary of $61,324. 

Roles and Responsibilities

• Formulate policy reports that synthesize information and display evidence.

• Review and monitor policies to define their weaknesses and impacts.

• Liaise with stakeholders to comprehend and document needs.

Industries Employing Policy Analysts

• Government

• Non-government organization

• Trust and investment

International Trade Specialist

International trade specialists are an elite type of economists. Their primary duties are to study the effects of globalization on their business and develop a comprehensive business plan to make sure the company is successful abroad.

Research in this job focuses on studying foreign laws regarding international trade, customs, currency exchange rates, etc.

Average Salary

International trade specialists earn a median annual salary of $59,719.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Interpret, and implement policies around international trade compliance.

• They process payments and track exceptions.

• Follow up on shipment and freight, ensuring documentation and activities are correct.

• Write and submit license and agreement applications and other documentation.

• Educate clients and staff on documentation, classification, and restrictions.

Industries Employing International Trade Specialists

• Government

• Trade Organisation

• Foreign relations

International Management Consultant

International management consultants assist companies in finding or sustaining success in overseas markets by analyzing the organization's operations and recommending improvements.

They focus on achieving purposes and contributing to growth and profits in a highly competitive environment.

International management consultants can work in sales, distribution, purchasing, production, human resources, or supply chain.

Average Salary

International Management consultants earn a median annual salary of $90,888.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Find or sustain success in overseas markets.

• Analyze the organization's operations

• Prepare business proposals and presentations.

Industries Employing International Management Consultants

• Human Resources

• Supply chain

• Sales and distribution

• Financial services

Public Relations Manager

A public relations manager maintains the public image of an organization or client.

To serve as a public relations manager, you need a bachelor's or master's degree in public relations, advertising, communications, or a related field.

Average Salary

Public relations managers earn a median annual salary of $72,415.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Consult and support clients and internal departments

• Organize interviews and press conferences

• Implement and improve public relations strategies

• Handle any potential general crisis

• Market analysis

Industries Employing Public Relations Manager

• Education

• Finance

• Charities

• Fashion

Global Operations Manager

Global operations managers are responsible for the organization's processes and operations worldwide.

They direct a portfolio of projects, smaller business units, and the organization's business strategies.

They also prepare all global processes and policies and recommend improving and changing processes.

Average Salary

Global operations managers earn a median annual salary of $68,439.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee the implementation of projects related to operations

• Establish goals for operational efficiency and productivity

• Ensures all employees follow company policies regarding safety, security, ethics, etc.

Industries Employing Global Operations Managers

• Management conducting

• Government

• International trade and development

• Consumers services

Purchasing Managers

Purchasing managers are involved in all facets of the company's business.

Purchasing managers must be able to review proposals for new projects on time.

They also must be skilled at discovering cost savings.

Average Salary

Purchasing managers earn a median annual salary of $70,832. 

Roles and Responsibilities

• Analyze price proposals to determine reasonable prices

• Work out agreements with suppliers, such as when products will be delivered.

• Negotiate contracts on behalf of their organization

• Develop their organization's procurement policies and procedure

Industries Employing International Purchasing Managers

• Supply chain

• Manufacturing

• Wholesale trade

International Trade Compliance Manager

International trade compliance managers oversee all compliance aspects of international trade on behalf of their organization.

They lead a team of trade professionals to fulfill all company and government requirements for their trade projects.

A bachelor's degree in a related field for this job is required, as well as relevant experience.

Average Salary

International trade compliance managers earn a median annual salary of $89,779.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Create and update customs and regulatory policy, documentation, and processes.

• Support and train staff on regulations and best practices.

• Review and update customs documentation

• Cultivate relations with government and customs entities

• Lead and make recommendations based on audits and identified risks.

Industries Employing International Trade Compliance Managers

• Government

• Trade and investment

• Manufacturing

Training and Development Managers

(100 words)

Training and development manager assists companies with internal cogency and ability.

They support employees through various types of training.

Average Salary

Training and development managers earn a median annual salary of $79,079. 

Roles and Responsibilities

• Supervise training and development of staff

• Assess employees' needs for training

• Align training with the organization's goals

• Create and manage training budgets

• Develop and implement training programs

Industries Employing Policy Analysts

• Technical services

• Finance and insurance

• Social assistance

Logistics Manager

Logistics managers resolve regular transportation and storage problems, such as weather delays, geopolitical situations, theft, damage, etc.

Average Salary

Logistics managers earn a median annual salary of $69,189. 

Roles and Responsibilities

• Supervise employees

• Address customer issues or complaints

• Develop operating strategies, plans, or procedures

• Maintain safety in the workplace

Industries Employing International Trade Specialists

• Supply chain

• Government

• Manufacturing

• Wholesale trade

Pros and Cons of International Business Careers

With a degree in international business, you can land high job demands.

Here are a few pros and cons of a career in international business

Pros

• Competitive edge over other prospects.

• High-paying salary.

• Option of traveling all around the world.

• It's unavoidable: business is going international.

• Extensive career path

Cons

• A lot of traveling

• Transfers

• Longer working hour

Skills You'll Develop While Studying International Business

Here are specific skills you will need to be proficient in, regardless of your role.

Emotional Intelligence

It is the most indispensable trait. Emotional intelligence is essential to building relationships and effectively carrying out international business.

Global professionals work across many cultures and often experience tiring business situations.

Knowing how to control emotions and communicate empathy can help build cross-cultural relationships.

Leadership

International business students develop the leadership skills required to maximize organizational efficiency and manage departments.

Leadership skills allow professionals who meet with high-level clients and executives to communicate effectively and grow business relationships.

Communication

Communication skills are essential to building foreign relationships and maintaining a global business.

As an international employee, you may work with many overseas clients and clients who anticipate an understanding and appreciation of their cultural norms.

Understanding how to interpret and respond to clients can help avoid misunderstandings and strengthen business relationships.

Network Building

Advancing in your international business career mandates you to be excellent in networking skills.

Managing a solid international pool of international connections helps you learn new business trends and opens up business possibilities you had never imagined.

Resilience

Success in an international career requires mental toughness and resilience.

Working in a different and multicultural environment means long hours and a tiring and filled schedule.

Failure and setbacks are inevitable in business, but defeat is not. This is when resilience comes in handy.

How to Prepare for an International Business Career

1. Obtain a degree or certificate

Obtaining a degree certificate in international business is vital in your career journey.

They will help you develop the essential skills to be competitive in the business world and also assist you in better understanding how organizations function and operate.

2. Research your industry

You must regularly analyze the markets and competition you will encounter during your career.

That can help you distinguish yourself from other job seekers and better understand the business world.

You can study your industry by reading business magazines and publications regularly and following the stock market and other financial indicators.

3. Build your professional network

Building up your professional network ensures you have a robust support system before you begin your international business career.

Building your network will help you form partnerships and will enable you to locate mentors who can help you improve your business career as rapidly as possible and break into the sector.

4. Internships

This will help you develop sufficient communication skills in different environments through meeting new people.

It will expose you to the business world and help you gain the necessary experience for your career.

International Business Resources to Help Your Career

Various organizations and educational tools can help further develop your cross-cultural skills and competencies.

Below are a few of them.

Professional organizations:

• Academy of International Business

• Finance, Credit, and International Business Association

• Washington International Trade Association

OpenCourseware:

• Economy and Business in Modern China and India - MIT

• Technology and Global Development - TU Delft

• International Studies 12: Global Issues and Institutions - UCI

Books:

• The Elephant and the Dragon: The Rise of India and China and What It Means for All of Us

• Making Globalization Work

• World, Inc.

Publications:

• International Journal of Economics and Finance

• Journal of Business and Finance

• Journal of International Business and Cultural Studies

How to Switch to an International Business Career

Most careers in business do not require a bachelor's degree.

As such, you don't necessarily need a business administration degree to pursue a career in international business.

However, advanced positions require specialized proficiencies due to working in global markets.

Advanced education, certifications, and field experience often achieve these skills.

Without these competencies, you may only have the credentials to secure entry-level business positions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is International Business?

International business comprises all commercial activities that promote the transfer of goods, services, resources, people, ideas, and technologies across nationwide boundaries.

What certification do I need for an International Business career?

Below are certifications that individuals may opt to establish a career in international business

• International Business Certificate

• Accelerated Certificate Program: International Business Operations & Management

• Certificate in International Business

• International Business and Marketing

• International Business

Can I get an International Business degree online?

It is possible to earn an international business degree online. You can earn one from a recognized and authorized business program that you can complete at your pace.

What fields can International Business work in?

International business specialists with bachelor's degrees can attain a variety of occupations.

Sales-minded individuals can seek jobs as international trade managers and sales specialists, while those enthusiastic about marketing and analysis can land positions as financial analysts, economists, and marketing managers.

Is there a high demand for International Business majors?

Yes, there's high demand for international business majors.

An international business career can lead to high salaries and career advancement opportunities, though it often requires substantial travel to different countries.

Final Thoughts

International business career paths offer individuals ample space for career expeditions.

Degree holders in this field can scrutinize administrative, managerial, and finance-related positions in all industries.

There is a constant need for professionals with business and financial know-how; they can look forward to having plenty of opportunities once they graduate.

In addition, having this level of business understanding can also open up other paths to explore for them, such as starting their own business or helping others create theirs.

International business careers are the perfect option for those who do not want to get restricted in terms of their future career choices.

This guide will provide you with the necessary information to get started in international business.