How to Prepare for a Job Change in Another European Country in 2025?
Author: Natalia Kłubko – Career Strategist, Euroguidance Ambassador
The European job market is undergoing dynamic transformation, shaped by key developments such as the green and digital transitions, the implementation of the European Year of Skills (2023–2024), and the impact of AI technologies on employment. According to the latest Cedefop Skills Forecast (2024), over 75% of jobs in the EU will require at least a medium level of qualification by 2035, and sectors such as ICT, renewable energy, and healthcare are expected to experience significant growth.
In this context, cross-border job mobility is becoming more accessible, but also more demanding. In particular, three areas are now crucial for professionals seeking to change jobs in another European country. These aspects align with both labor market trends and recent policy initiatives, making them especially relevant today:
- Creating a Portfolio and Updating Your CV
The 2024 Europass platform update introduced enhanced features that support dynamic CV creation and digital portfolio building, responding to the growing need for personalized and competency-based job applications. Tailoring your CV to specific job offers, especially in competitive sectors like IT or sustainability—helps to navigate automated screening systems (ATS) used by employers across the EU.
In 2025, more employers in Europe are requesting digital portfolios as standard practice. This trend is particularly visible in creative industries, marketing, tech, and education. Using tools like the Europass e-portfolio, candidates can compile achievements, project outcomes, and even micro-credentials, which are now recognized in many EU countries.
- Personal Branding on Social Media
In March 2024, the European Labour Authority (ELA) published a report highlighting that nearly 70% of cross-border recruiters check candidates' online presence before making hiring decisions. This underscores the growing importance of personal branding—especially on LinkedIn—for professionals seeking employment abroad.
Beyond maintaining a LinkedIn profile, candidates are now encouraged to actively engage in thought leadership by posting content, joining professional groups, and collecting endorsements. Personal brand, strategic online presence and networking are becoming increasingly important, as employers now assess candidates’ communication style, consistency, and industry insight through their social media activity.
- Individual Development and Continuous Learning
The European Year of Skills may have officially concluded in 2024, but its momentum continues in 2025. EU-backed platforms such as EU Academy and the updated Europass Learning Opportunities catalogue are expanding free access to reskilling and upskilling courses—particularly in digital literacy, green skills, and soft skills.
Employers are increasingly recognizing short-term credentials and micro-certifications. A recent CEDEFOP analysis notes that micro-credentials can play a key role in validating international competencies, especially when changing countries or sectors. Certificates from platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and national VET (Vocational Education and Training) programs are more valued than ever before.
Conclusion
In 2025, preparing for a job change in another European country means aligning with both evolving labor market needs and new EU-level tools and strategies. The combination of an up-to-date, targeted CV and portfolio, a well-managed digital presence, and a commitment to continuous learning will not only help candidates navigate the job market but also thrive in it.
By leveraging platforms like Europass, staying informed about cross-border recruitment trends, and investing in lifelong learning, job seekers can turn mobility into opportunity and confidently take their next career step in Europe.
Sources:
- Eurostat: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/labour-market
- Europass: https://europass.europa.eu/
- European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop): https://www.cedefop.europa.eu/eu
- European Labour Authority: https://www.ela.europa.eu/en
- European Commission – Year of Skills: https://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1557&langId=en
