Where to search for jobs?
In Australia, like most places, you would typically apply for a job following an advertisement for a position by providing the employer a covering letter and a resume.
Australians often search for professional jobs using a number of search engines. Popular websites in Australia include:
Senior and executive level staff are often recruited by recruiting companies or independent head-hunters working for various employers across Australia. Many jobs are not openly advertised, so your job searches need to involve a variety of strategies, including networking.
Career Experts suggest that its beneficial to speak to peers who have lived in Australia for a long time to learn the local Australian system of finding employment. Often tips you receive from friends, family from their own personal experiences can help you moving in the right direction.
Part-Time and Casual positions, often in the hospitality industry, are more commonly applied by directly applying to the establishment’s website or applying in person. Advertisements can also be found on school noticeboards and the search engines mentioned above.
Generally, job Interviews are an important part of the process of applying for a job and may range in formality from a casual conversation to a series of discussions with multiple people that work in the company.
The Importance of Cultural Awareness
Career Experts believe that a lack of Australian experience is a significant barrier any newcomer will face. So do your research!
Another top career expert notes: “Australians appear casual, but are not casual at all,” he says. “Come in for a chat’ can mean a formal interview, so you need to be prepared.”
The way different cultures see interviews may be detrimental to their chances of success: “An employment contract is a two-way thing. I’ve not seen many overseas professionals who understand that,” he says. “They don’t understand that they have something to offer.”
An important thing to remember is that Australia has a very flat hierarchy compared with Asian or African countries (and it is especially true for some companies). Additionally, kids in Australia learn to express their personality from early on, so don’t be surprised if you are asked about your hobbies during the interview. It’s a legitimate question and the goal is to find out what you enjoy doing outside work.
English Fluency & Resume pointers
English fluency plays an important role in your pursuit of employment in Australia. Experts suggest mentioning your IELTS or PTE score to prove your English Proficiency may help in your application.
Another important point: Get your résumé proofread by a native English speaker with good language skills.
Poorly written resumes from overseas professionals may encourage potential employers to doubt your communication skills.
In order to be able to accurately convey overseas experience, it may be a good idea to provide context around places that you have worked.
For example, use numbered outcomes whenever possible. See the difference in mental images you create when you read the following two sentences:
In Australia, especially when compared to a lot of Asian and European countries, experience is more important than qualifications. Local candidates talk about their experience, achievements and success, while overseas job seekers focus on their qualifications.
Even if the job description explicitly mentions a degree, you shouldn’t focus much on it in your application.
You should rather put the emphasis on your achievements in the relevant field. Where in your previous working history did you successfully demonstrated the required skills?
Remove all irrelevant information from your CV. As to your age or marital status, questions about those aspects of your private life are illegal during the recruiting process in Australia. This is done to prevent any discrimination. On the other hand, make sure your contact details are up to date and look professional. Don’t use an email address containing irrelevant / unprofessional words.
Don’t forget, you can also get in touch with us if you need further assistance with job hunting, resume preparation and interview presentation skills.