As discussed, many newcomers face the challenge of securing their first job in New Zealand due to a lack of “New Zealand experience.” This can be a common hurdle that many face, as employers often look for candidates who are familiar with local workplace culture and have previous experience within the country. However, this doesn’t mean that finding a job is impossible. During this time, it is crucial to be resilient and continue refining your job search strategies to increase your chances of success.
Job Marketplaces to Explore in New Zealand
While there are several job marketplaces commonly used in New Zealand, here are our top four picks that every newcomer should explore:
- Seek.co.nz: One of the largest job boards in New Zealand, Seek offers a wide range of job listings across various industries. It’s a great starting point to search for roles that match your skills and experience.
- Trade Me Jobs: Trade Me is not only popular for buying and selling goods, but it’s also a valuable resource for job seekers. You can find a diverse range of job listings here, from entry-level positions to specialized roles.
- LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a powerful networking tool and job board. Creating a professional profile and connecting with potential employers can help you find job opportunities that may not be advertised elsewhere.
- Student Job Search (SJS): This platform specifically caters to students looking for part-time or casual work. Only students in New Zealand can access the job vacancies listed on SJS, so you may need your Student ID number to create an account and access the job listings.
Alternative Job Search Strategies
If you find that online applications aren’t yielding the desired results, consider adopting a more proactive approach such as door-to-door applications. Visiting stores and businesses to submit your CV directly to the HR team or manager can sometimes be more effective than applying online, as it shows initiative and a willingness to engage directly with potential employers.
Additionally, New Zealanders heavily use Facebook to connect with their communities. There are many Facebook groups based on specific suburbs (e.g., Birkenhead Community, Takapuna Community) and nationalities (e.g., Indonesians in New Zealand, Filipinos in Auckland). Networking through these groups can provide insight into job openings that are shared within the community and might not be advertised on conventional platforms. Engaging in these groups by sharing your skills and availability can lead to opportunities that you may not have found otherwise.
Also read: NZ Job Success: Do You Have a New Zealand Standard CV?
Leverage Your Education Provider’s Career Center
Another valuable resource is the career center of your education provider. Many educational institutions have dedicated career centers that collaborate with local businesses to offer exclusive job opportunities for their students. Often, these positions are not publicly advertised, making them accessible only to students or recent graduates. Therefore, keeping an eye on these listings and reaching out to the career advisors for guidance can be highly beneficial.
Tips for a Successful Job Hunt
We understand that many people struggle at the beginning of their job search journey. It’s common to face multiple rejections or not receive responses at all. However, the key is to remain persistent. Keep refining your resume, cover letters, and interview skills, and continue to network as much as possible.
Best tip: Don’t stop applying and improving your applications until you land an interview and secure a job. Even if the job offer you receive is not exactly what you were hoping for, consider accepting it as a stepping stone. Getting your first job in New Zealand, no matter the field, can help build local experience, making it easier to move to your desired role in the future.
Final Words of Encouragement
Remember, job hunting is a process that takes time, especially when you’re new to the country. It’s easy to feel disheartened, but with perseverance and the right strategies, you will find success. Every job application, interview, and networking opportunity brings you one step closer to achieving your goals.
Best of luck for your New Zealand journey and don’t forget to have some fun along the way! Explore the beautiful landscapes, engage with the vibrant communities, and immerse yourself in the unique Kiwi culture. Finding a job is just one part of your journey—embrace the entire experience, and soon, you’ll find your place in New Zealand’s workforce.
Immigration Chambers guides you through the entire New Zealand visa application process, offering expert advice, document preparation, and personalized support. Speak with our expert Immigration Adviser in Auckland and navigate the New Zealand visa process smoothly and confidently.