Do’s And Don’ts For Overseas Jobseekers

Do’s And Don’ts For Overseas Jobseekers

Are you currently in the process of looking for employment in Australia?

Here are a few Do’s and Don’ts to help you.

Do...

• Visit Australian recruitment websites before you make the decision to emigrate. It is important to familiarise yourself with the type of job opportunities within your specific field and skill set.
   
• Make sure your C.V. is up to date and clearly outlines your skills and experience to potential employers.
   
• Begin your visa application and keep employers informed of how far along your application is.
   
• Be prepared and line up interviews before you arrive in Australia. The majority of employers will want a face-to-face interview.
   
• Research which areas of the country your skills are in demand. Think about whether you are prepared to work in regional areas.
   
• Take copies of your C.V., visa application and any references to interviews.
   
• Be flexible. You might not be offered your ideal job in preferred location straightaway.
   
• Think about joining an international recruitment agency.
   
• Get an Australian mobile phone number as soon as possible. This is important for potential employers to get hold of you.
   
• Follow the strict guidelines on what you can and can’t bring into the country. http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/import
   
• When your visa application has been granted apply for an Australian Tax File Number. Without one you can’t receive an income.

Don’t...

• Compare it to home. Some things will be different.
   
• Leave finding somewhere to live until the last minute. Research temporary rental accommodation until you get a job offer or book into a hotel.
   
• Don’t just arrive with no plan of where you are going to stay. Many estate agents specialise in short term furnished lets.
   
• Forget to transfer your money. It can be expensive to withdraw money from a foreign bank account so as soon possible open an Australian bank account and transfer your money across.
   
• Forget to visit the SkillSelect website to familiarise yourself with the process if you are applying for a skilled migration visa. http://www.immi.gov.au/skills/skillselect/
   
• Think you can just turn up and hand out your C.V. to potential employers and be offered a job. Companies have strict procedures and Government guidelines to follow when employing overseas workers.
   
• Apply for jobs too far in advance. Employers will need to see evidence of your visa application and many will want to meet you in person before offering you a position. It is a waste of your time and potential employers time if you apply for jobs with an immediate start date or one that is before your arrival in Australia.
   
• Over negotiate your contract with an employer. Recruitment agencies will advise you on what levels of salary to expect with your skills and experience. Employment law and contract terms may be different in Australia compared to back home.
   
• Forget your driving licence. Holding a driving licence is often viewed as an advantaged by employers and worth mentioning on your C.V.
   
• Feel like there is no-one to talk to if you are struggling to find employment or settle into your new life.