South Africa: Finding a job
Introduction
If you do not have a job, before you have arrived, make sure you have done your CV (curriculum vitae) and that you have copies of all relevant documentation. This includes up to date references.
Finding the right job
Currently South Africa is in crisis on specific skills and welcome international workers. However there is an affirmative Action policy that demands that previously disadvantaged South Africans are considered first.If you can secure a job before you arrive then you will be one step ahead as it is usually easier to get a job offer before you arrive than once you are here.
Your CV
Keep your CV brief, at least two pages, if you must go onto 3 pages, do so, but make sure you have at least 10 years worth of employment history to add. This is a very competitive market, so you have to make sure you do it right the first time.
Don’t be shy to pester the agents every single day, contrary to what you believe, they WILL forget about you. Make sure you are top of the pile! Also write a covering letter stating what you are looking for, why you would be the perfect one for the job and most importantly what salary you are looking for.
Recruitment Agencies
The first test is to get through the agencies. It can be frustrating as they will screen you and if you do not have the right qualifications then they will reject you before you have started.
On the day of an interview with an agent you must be smartly dressed and ready to answer all their questions. The best advice is to rehearse certain answers like why you have moved over here, why you are the best for the job, what are your strong points and weaknesses, and what you are looking for in a job. When having an interview remember to add key phrases like:
- Willing to work hard
- Like team work
- Dedicated
- Easy to get on with
If you have a question that has not been answered in this section then please ask the community in our relocation forums:
