Luxembourg and Brussels are two of the most economically vibrant cities in Europe, with thriving business sectors and strong international ties.
As such, many business graduates are attracted to the region, seeking to launch their careers and take advantage of the many opportunities available.
Ruling From European Institutions
The European Union (EU) ruled that European students can find jobs throughout the continent regardless of nationality. This would increase competition for mature economies such as Brussels and Luxembourg, where high-skilled labour in the service sector is of particular importance.
Being the administrative epicentres of EU institutions and international institutions alike, it is no surprise that competition is stiff even for graduates with above-average grades.
This process can be made harder for non EU citizens seeking a job interview. International students, upon graduation, will have to apply for a blue card before they can be legally employed. Employers may assist them in the process, however, they have to ensure that their job ad is at least 10 days old before they can hire a non-citizen.
Non EU citizens will also need to have qualifications that differentiate themselves from the European average, whilst having an employment offer with a higher salary than locals to qualify for expat jobs.
The sacrifice may be worthwhile since both cities offer an attractive employment landscape for ambitious business graduates. Below are some important industries graduates should look out for.
Key Industries
Luxembourg
- Financial services: Luxembourg is one of the largest financial centres in Europe, and many of the world’s biggest banks, investment funds, and insurance companies have offices or headquarters in the country. Business graduates working in financial services in Luxembourg might be involved in areas such as investment management, private banking, or risk management. Examples of companies in this industry with headquarters in Luxembourg include State Street, UBS, and JP Morgan.
- Information and communication technology (ICT): Luxembourg is also home to a thriving ICT sector, with many startups and established companies specialising in software development, cybersecurity, and other tech-related fields. Business graduates in this industry might work in areas such as web development, cloud computing, or network security. Examples of companies in this industry with headquarters in Luxembourg include Microsoft, Amazon, and Tata Consultancy.
- Healthcare: The healthcare sector is a growing industry in Luxembourg, with many companies specialising in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare services. Business graduates in this industry might work in areas such as clinical research, regulatory affairs, or product development. Examples of companies in this industry with headquarters in Luxembourg include Laboratoires Réunis and Pfizer.
Brussels
- EU institutions: Brussels is home to many of the institutions of the European Union, including the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the Council of the European Union. Business graduates working in EU institutions might be involved in areas such as policy development, public affairs, or project management. Examples of institutions with headquarters in Brussels include the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the European Council.
- Financial services: Like Luxembourg, Brussels is also an important financial centre, with many banks, investment firms, and insurance companies headquartered in the city. Business graduates working in financial services in Brussels might be involved in areas such as corporate finance, wealth management, or risk analysis. Examples of companies in this industry with headquarters in Brussels include BNP Paribas, Euroclear, and Sofina.
- Information and communication technology (ICT): Brussels is also home to a thriving ICT sector, with many startups and established companies specialising in software development, cybersecurity, and other tech-related fields. Business graduates in this industry might work in areas such as project management, data analytics, or external relations. Examples of companies in this industry with headquarters in Brussels include IBM, Microsoft, and Cisco.
Pros and Cons
Each industry (and city) has its own unique advantages and challenges.
For example, working in financial services in Luxembourg might be more attractive due to its well-established financial sector and high wages; however, the cost of living is also higher than in Brussels.
Similarly, while there may be more opportunities for career growth in Brussels’ ICT sector, the job market is also more competitive.
Job vacancies, however, are always abundant. Hence it is up to the graduate to apply for as many positions that interest them.
Securing Job Opportunities With A Business Degree
Beyond reaching out to prospective employers, the art of securing a job is a difficult chasm to cross.
Get Your Basics Right! (Resume, Attire, Interview Skills etc.)
Before applying to jobs, make sure to get your basics right, such as your resume, attire, and interview skills.
Your resume should highlight your education, skills, and relevant work experience, while your attire should be professional and appropriate for the industry you’re applying to. It is important that your resume is formatted in a way that is easily readable by both AI and recruitment managers alike.
Additionally, practise your interview skills and be prepared to answer common interview questions. Showcasing your confidence, communication skills, and enthusiasm can make a big difference in securing job opportunities.
Describe How Your Business Program Differentiates You From Cheaper Talent
While some companies may be looking for cheaper talent, a business program can differentiate you from other candidates in the job market.
Be sure to emphasise the knowledge and skills you gained from your business program, such as finance, accounting, marketing, and leadership.
Additionally, highlight any internships or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to the field and your ability to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills And Ability to Lead
Business programs often teach analytical skills and the ability to lead and manage teams, which are highly sought after in many industries.
Be sure to showcase your analytical skills by highlighting your ability to gather and analyse data, make informed decisions, and solve complex problems.
Additionally, emphasise your ability to lead and manage teams by discussing any leadership roles you’ve held, such as leading a student organisation or managing a project team.
Demonstrating your ability to work collaboratively and inspire others can make you a standout candidate for job opportunities.
Perks of Knowing An European Language
For business graduates seeking job opportunities in Luxembourg and Brussels, knowing an additional European language can be a major advantage.
French, German, and Flemish are the most commonly spoken languages in the region, and fluency in one or more of these languages can make you a more competitive candidate in many industries.
Additionally, knowing another language can make it easier to build relationships with clients and colleagues from different countries, which can be essential in today’s globalised business world.
Graduating From UBI Business School
UBI Business School is a business school with campuses in Brussels and Luxembourg that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in business, management, and entrepreneurship. Graduating from UBI Business School can be a major advantage in the job market, as the school has a strong reputation in the region and a network of alumni working in many industries. Additionally, UBI Business School offers opportunities for internships and study abroad programs, which can give students valuable experience and help them build their professional networks. UBI Business School also has a diverse student body, with students from many different countries, which can provide a unique cultural and educational experience.
Overall, for business graduates seeking job opportunities in Luxembourg and Brussels, knowing a European language and graduating from a reputable business school like UBI Business School can be major advantages. By emphasising these strengths and demonstrating their value to potential employers, business graduates can differentiate themselves in the job market and secure rewarding and fulfilling careers in these dynamic and exciting cities.