Working in New Zealand

There are a few different ways to find a job here in Aotearoa, and some of them might be quite different to what you’re used to!
We’re experts on the New Zealand job market and we’ve been helping travellers and new arrivals find work since 1998. Here’s everything you need to know, including our top 3 ways to find a job.

1. Register with a Recruitment Company

Also known as a recruitment agency, job agency, or employment agency. The purpose of a recruitment company (like us!) is to match potential employees, or ‘candidates’ (like you!), to potential employers, or ‘clients’ (other companies). A lot of New Zealand employers hire a recruitment company to help them find the right staff, which also makes it a good starting point for job seekers.

How it works:

• Register with the recruitment company, usually either by contacting them directly, applying to a job, or submitting your CV.
• A Recruitment Consultant then reviews your details and may contact you directly to find out more about you and what kind of work you’re looking for.
• Your Consultant will then review all the jobs they’re hiring for and match your skills, experience, interests, and any other requirements to the best opportunity available for you.
• If you‘re interested in the role, your Consultant presents your details to the client (the hiring organisation).
• You may be invited for an interview, or to complete psychometric or skills testing (if required). For some temporary roles, interview processes may happen over the phone, and some may not require a client interview at all. Your Consultant will guide you through the recruitment process and provide interview tips and advice. Your Consultant will also contact your references and do any other necessary background checks.
• If you’re successful, you’ll be employed as a temp, either by the recruitment company or directly by the employer, depending on the job type.

If you prefer looking for jobs yourself, most recruitment companies also list their open jobs on their website, where you can usually apply online and narrow down your search using filters like job category, type, and salary.

If you’re ready to look for a role, you can find out more about our recruitment process or submit your CV now.

Benefits:

• It’s free!
• It’s one of the easiest ways to find a job if you’re new to Aotearoa, as your Recruitment Consultant helps you with job hunting and matches you to the best opportunities.
• It’s quick, the processes are streamlined and often can be done completely online.
• You’ll get valuable advice, like how to update your CV for the local market.
• You’ll have someone to help guide you through the whole process and prepare you for the interview.
• Access many different jobs available through one recruitment company
• Some offer referral schemes – if you refer a friend (or travel buddy!) and they get a job through the company, then you get a reward,
• Some offer additional benefits.

2. Job Boards

Websites where employers and recruitment companies pay to list their jobs. Some job boards specialise in certain industries or locations, while others span nearly all industries, sectors, locations and job types.

How it works:

• Employers and recruitment companies create a profile and then pay to list their jobs on the website.
• You register online and create a profile with your CV, which you can choose to be public which allows potential employers and recruiters to find your details.
• Jobseekers can search and apply themselves.
• Applications can either be through the job board/website itself, or you could be redirected through to the employer or recruitment company website instead.

Benefits:

• It’s free for job seekers!
• There’s a huge variety of different job options and types to choose from.
• It’s quick and easy to search and apply online.
• Job alerts save time searching and help narrow down results.

3. LinkedIn

LinkedIn can be used as a professionals networking platform or a job board. If you’re new to Aotearoa and looking for work, LinkedIn can be a powerful tool to help you find job opportunities and connect with employers.

How it works:

• Create a LinkedIn profile and include all relevant information about your skills, work experience, and education.
• Start building your network by connecting with people you know in your industry, as well as recruiters and hiring managers.
• Search for jobs on LinkedIn’s job board, or set up job alerts to get notifications for new job postings that match your skills and experience.
• Apply to job listings directly through LinkedIn, or use your network to get referrals for jobs that you’re interested in.

Benefits:

• It’s free to use!
• You can showcase your skills and experience to potential employers, making it easier for them to find you and reach out about job opportunities.
• You can also use LinkedIn to research companies and hiring managers, which can help you prepare for job interviews and make informed decisions about where to apply for jobs.