Getting the Job

Having overseas work experience recognized by local employers can be difficult at start. Something we realized is that there are different ways to build a career, some countries enable you to specialize in job function and expect more general experience in terms of industry knowledge. For example, an IT project Manager in Europe can work for a Digital T.V company, then consultant for a Government Agency and then work in telecommunications. Transferable skills are software engineering, architecture, methodology and project management skills. Here in Brisbane however, it was deemed important to be specialized in job function and industry e.g. an IT manager in the Mining Sector or telecommunications. This is worth being aware of but don't be put off -- sell yourself on your ability to adapt.

It is important to present a competitive C.V and take on tips about how to prepare for a job interview/ ways to best present yourself. The style and expectations here could be different to where you are from. Be willing to answer questions that may hint at your lack of local business/industry knowledge. A German Credit Analysis found himself hearing, "You don't know our local customers, area and business." This was frustrating as in his work history he had regularly worked with "international/unknown" customers overseas and in off shore operations. Again, emphasis your adaptability and demonstrated experience of working with unknown/new customers.

Another typical problem is that recruiters for Australian companies don't necessarily know the companies you've worked for in your home country, even if they are big names. These obstacles can be overcome and responded to assertively in the interview or if feeling deflated, with a follow-up email.

There is a very exact way of writing a local C.V suited to catch the eye of Australian recruitment staff. It tends to be detailed with key words, positions and responsibilities and any budgets you've been responsible for. Middle and senior management in many sectors are very involved with budgets and finance.

Since even locally most companies now outsource their recruitment to agencies and work on contract and subcontract basis. The best way to approach independent job hunting is to register and meet as many recruitment agents in your field of work as possible (they don't charge you a fee). Get help with tailoring your C.V. The best way to do this is to find a local recruitment agency who is specialized in helping new immigrants or specialized in your field and will take the time to help you.

It's normal to have several interviews both with the recruitment agency and the company that is hiring. My husband took a job on a short contact to get his foot in the door. The first step was a step down the career ladder but once he had more local knowledge, confidence and ability to build a network within his industry he quickly got back to where he was.

Qualifications recognition

It is worth for some professionals to have qualifications formally recognised/translated into the Australian equivalent. It can improve your chances of working in the profession in which you are qualified e.g. teaching, nursing, electrics, engineering, IT. For a Free Government Assessment of Qualifications: www.training.qld.gov.au/skillsrec/index.htm

If you have trade qualifications in engineering, construction, metalwork, electrical or catering, the Trades Recognition Australia for Overseas provides this service. Trades Recognition Australia, GPO Box 9879, Canberra ACT 2601, Tel: +612 6121 7456

For Tertiary Qualifications, The Australian Education International-National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (AEI-NOOSR) http://aei.dest.gv.au/AEI/Qualificationsrecognition/Default.htm provides information on how to have post-secondary overseas academic qualifications recognised in Australia. The Queensland government provides a free service for assessment of all overseas professional and technical qualifications -- their website is worth a visit.

Settling In & Networking

With one in four Australians born outside of Australia, there's a lot of people here who have done the big move or are currently in same boat doing the same journey. This makes getting started easier and building a network simpler. In addition, there is continual positive propaganda to encourage multiculturalism and acceptance of new comers into Australian Society.