Are you feeling itchy, looking for a change of scenery or a new adventure? Why not consider a sponsored job in Australia? Not only will you have the chance to experience the beauty of the land down under, but you will also have the opportunity to work in a culturally diverse environment.
BUT getting a sponsored job in Australia is not as simple as just applying online and waiting for a response. If you do this only, you may hear crickets. It requires a strategic approach and an understanding of the job market. Here are 4 tips to get you started.
Tip 1: Have a job search strategy
Usually 2 movements exist; scrolling through job boards for sponsored visas or finding opportunities in the hidden job market via networking and other tactics. The best is to combine both approaches to get to your desired career faster. Check out our other post on Unveiling the hidden job market in Australia: Are 70% of jobs NOT advertised?
Of course, you can try some unconventional methods like throwing darts at the map of Australia and apply for the first job you see in that location; this could be an option for the most adventurous with ‘whatever happens’ attitude.
Tip 2: Familiarise yourself with the Australian job application protocol
If you think it is a good idea to attach a photo of your pet kangaroo to your application to show that you fully embrace culture and wildlife, then think again! Actually, there is no recommendation that you add any photo to your resume. Instead, take some time to research the cultural differences in the job application process. Tailoring your application to the specific job and company is key!
Job hunters believe that during the major holiday season – between end of December and end of January – even the grass stops growing. It may look like that the job market is dead because hiring managers are on leave, it is only half true. It is absolutely worth pursuing the job search during this ‘slower’ season as you will have much less competition due to other, local candidates being away too. We have detailed information and all tricks on this topic in our Accelerator Australia course if you want to be fully armed to win an intellectually stimulating and well paying job.
Tip 3: Understanding the language
Yes. Even if you are a ‘native English speaker”, understanding how Australians speak will help you score better at online, phone or face to face interviews. Australians have a unique way of speaking, and if you are not careful, you might end up feeling like you are in a completely different country. Additionally, understanding cultural nuances and customs, being able to talk about local sport (e.g NRL, NFL, Manly Sea Eagles, The Wallabies) can also help you make a great impression on potential employers. You must come across that you are a professional, you are interested in the local culture and before they blink you will be able to integrate in the work team. Another example, if the hiring manager asks you – to ease the stress before the interview – if you want to grab a “cuppa”, they are not offering you a Kapa Haka dance, but a cup of tea.
So, as a fun way to prepare, why not watch some episodes of “Neighbours” or “Home and Away” to get a feel for the Aussie slang? Just a warning, you might come out of it with an obsession with Chris Hemsworth.
Tip 4 – Being aware of what jobs are in demand will increase your chance significantly
Australia’s economy is constantly growing and changing, which means certain industries are in higher demand than others. However, it is highly unlikely that you will get a sponsored job as a professional boomerang thrower or a koala cuddler (yes, these are a real jobs in Australia). Some of the most in-demand industries and roles include healthcare professionals, skilled tradespeople, teachers, and IT professionals. Make sure to research the job market and see where your skills might be needed the most.
At the end of the day, the key to getting a sponsored job in Australia is to be persistent and determined. It may take some time, but with the right approach, you could be on your way to living and working in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
If you are looking for even more guidance, consider signing up for a practical workshop that specializes in how to find a sponsored job in Australia. With expert advice and resources at your fingertips, you will be ready to tackle the job market and make your dream of working in Australia a reality.
Nestinsider is here to guide you and help you get ahead of the game. With insider tips and tricks you can figure out how things work before you land, so that you can enjoy all the wonders this amazing country has to offer from day one.
