Professional women who want to advance their career and reach the boardroom quicker should consider working overseas, according to a survey on global mobility in the workplace by recruitment agency Hydrogen Group.

The report, Global Professionals on the Move 2011, was commissioned by Hydrogen Group and conducted by a consultancy project team from the ESCP Europe Business School. The report analysed responses from 2,637 professionals in 85 different countries, who earned on average $100,000 and had qualifications of a bachelor degree or above.

The survey confirms that working overseas is an extremely positive experience with 100% of the women surveyed saying they would recommend working abroad to others. Respondents further reported that the experience had improved their career prospects, salaries, living conditions and personal development.

The survey also noted that, despite international companies actively seeking female talent, women are not getting as much international experience as men, a factor that could hinder their career progression.

Emma Halls, Director Hydrogen ANZ, said: "Our Australian clients are increasingly requesting women with international experience. The global job opportunities for professional Australian women with overseas knowledge are numerous. The general consensus being that when women work abroad, they will come home to Australia with a wealth of experience that gives them the edge in advancing their careers here.

"Australia's employment market is addressing the gender divide with companies starting to make a strong commitment to gender equality. Banks seem to be leading the way, prompted by the ASX's drive to place more women in senior positions, and even score-carding CEOs on this statistic, helping instigate a shift in attitude. With gender diversity at the forefront of our clients' minds, women with international experience will see their CVs fast-tracked through to interview in Australia", she added.

Other survey findings included: * ÿVirtually all (98%) of the survey's respondents said they would recommend working abroad to others (100% of the female respondents) * similarly, 93% reported they would go abroad again if given the chance.

* Men outnumber women four to one in working abroad. Although women do express a willingness to relocate almost as much as men (41% of women, compared to 46% of men) the reality of working abroad is still realised by more men.

* Of those Australians currently overseas 33% are women and 67% are men, half are in the 31-40 age group and 26% have children.