Researching job opportunities

What will New Zealand employers think of my application?

For some jobs, qualifications are essential, but many New Zealand employers don’t place the same importance on formal qualifications as in some other countries. They look for:

• excellent motivation
• recent relevant experience
• reliable workers
• people who fit the role advertised
• people who will grow and develop in the role
• people who can bring fresh thinking
• people who work well in a team.

This means that you might not need formal qualification to get a job - but it also means that you are not certain of getting a job just because you seem to have the right qualification.

Some employers see a risk in taking on migrants, especially recent arrivals.

• Employers want their workers to get on with each other, and have a relaxed but efficient relationship with customers. They will need to be sure that you will fit the workplace culture.
• English language skills, especially speaking and listening, are crucial in all businesses. Employers will need to be convinced that your English is good enough, and that you want to improve.
• Some employers have doubts about overseas qualifications. You can help your chances by having your qualifications evaluated by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. You can also take a course to add to your overseas qualifications. Make sure you describe your skills and experience, as well as your qualifications.

The most convincing thing for employers is to see that you have experience in a New Zealand workplace, and you are keen to work and learn. So try to get any sort of job, even if it is not your ideal.

• New Zealand Qualifications Authority website - find out how to get your qualifications recognised

"I had to go to the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. They check your skills, your work experience, your education, and they try to identify which level you are at in New Zealand. Then I could be more confident as I had a report saying what level of mechanical engineer I am."

Pedro Romero from Chile

How should I explore the job market?

Some types of jobs are available throughout New Zealand. Other jobs you can only do in some regions. If you are thinking of working in New Zealand, plan ahead to find out what jobs you can do in different areas.

Find out how hard it will be to find a job in a certain region. You can do this by searching for the job in our job database and then looking at the job outlook. Check out regional information for the industry that you would like to work in.  This will help you work out what regions have the best work opportunities for you. 

• Regional labour market information - find out about job opportunities in different parts of New Zealand
• Use our quick find tool to look up your job, and see what opportunities there are

You can also:

• Find out which part of New Zealand would best suit you – consider the job you want to do, family and friends.
• Research regions of New Zealand that have good job opportunities, so you can see whether they match other things you want. For example, does it have places to go walking, or, if you like sailing, is it near the sea? 
• Research jobs or education opportunities for family members.

How can I find a temporary job?

You can find temporary work by searching newspapers, speaking to people you know, and searching online.

In New Zealand, recruitment agencies can also help you to find work.

• They are good for temporary jobs.
• They have contracts for short-term and long-term work.
• The opportunities they find you may lead to other jobs.
• Recruitment agencies will not charge you a fee; they are paid by employers to find suitable workers.
• You may be interviewed and tested. Be prepared to stay for a few hours.

Will I be able to do the same job in New Zealand as I did at home?

Many newcomers to New Zealand find this a problem. We can’t guarantee that you will be able to do what you were doing at home. By following these tips you can maximise your opportunities.

• Check the Immigration New Zealand website to see if your skills are needed in New Zealand.
• Get your qualifications recognised by going to the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).

• NZQA website - find out how to get your qualifications recognised

"The Career Services website was fantastic. It told us about job trends and salaries, and provided regional market information, which really helped us plan ahead."

Nassar Ahmed from India

Things to consider

• You may have to take a job at a lower level than you are used to.
• Many New Zealand businesses are small. This might mean that the job you do has a different title here.
• Speak to someone doing the job that you would like to do. They can tell you about job opportunities.
• Research the main businesses in the region you would like to work in.
• Remember, contract or part-time work can lead to a permanent job.
  

Understand employment conditions

There are clear laws and procedures covering everyone employed in New Zealand. These cover health and safety, membership of worker unions, employment agreements, holidays and leave, and disputes.

• Department of Labour website - information on employee rights and benefits

In many jobs, you will be able to negotiate flexible arrangements. For example, some people work only three or four days a week, or work shorter hours so they can care for children. These arrangements should be written into your employment agreement. Remember to find out about income tax and KiwiSaver, a voluntary retirement savings scheme.