Networking and online services can ease the transition of a big move and help you find your dream job.

Landing in a new city can be exciting. There are so many new things to discover and experience. The newness of it all can be invigorating. One thing that might dampen the mood, however, is a job search in this new landscape. Without your old network and tried-and-true strategies, how will you find a new job that is fulfilling and meets you where you are in your career in this new city? The keys to success will be familiar but are worth discussing. There are job search resources, networking groups and other online and in-person professional associations that will assist you in your job hunt and jumpstart your new professional network in your new city.

Job Search Overview

Even in places where the job market is robust, competition can be fierce. Many cities around the world are making a strategic push towards digital transformation across various sectors, like IT, finance and engineering, and this agenda shapes the job market and influences the demand for talent. Being mindful of key sectors and understanding how to navigate job search resources is crucial for success.

Start your job search online using sites such as Jobstreet or LinkedIn. Many employers recruit directly through their own portals and Facebook pages. The traditional methods of using recruitment agencies, getting business referrals and networking through professional associations still work too, as many countries values personal connections.

It’s also important to be aware of work visa regulations. For foreign nationals, the job search comes with challenges regarding the hiring process and securing a work permit. While some governments may restrict the hiring of foreigners in certain industries, employers operating in priority sectors have access to fast-track streams for work permits, without the usual quota restrictions. If you focus your job search on these key sectors, which are poised for growth and innovation, you might find more accessible opportunities.

Online Job Sites

Job sites are an effective way of finding work. Many of these sites are aggregators, or metasearch engines, scanning thousands of job boards and employer websites to deliver their search results.

Job boards are usually free for jobseekers, and you can upload your resume/CV so employers can contact you. Most websites also let you set up alerts so you can receive job postings that correspond to your criteria, such as job title, industry or location.

Besides job postings, many sites offer career advice, job market information, salary calculators and other tools. Registration may be required to use all of a site’s features. It’s also worthwhile to visit the career pages of employers that interest you. Lastly, check government-run resources.

Here are a few examples of online job sites:

• FastJobs
  https://www.fastjobs.my/ (English)
  FastJobs lists full-time, part-time and contract roles in all sectors. It functions best through its app, which uses AI to identify jobs that are similar to your history and offers a variety of other features, including a quick CV builder and the ‘WhatsApp to Apply’ feature ̶ when you click apply, you’re connected to a WhatsApp chat with the employer.
• Glassdoor
  https://www.glassdoor.com/ (English)
  Glassdoor Jobs is a global job search and recruiting platform that offers more than just local job listings. It lets you compare salaries and gain insights into local employers through reviews posted by current and former employees, including feedback on the interview process.
• Indeed
  https://indeed.com
  Indeed is a popular job search platform that aggregates job listings from various sources. Its job feed section displays relevant job opportunities based on your activity and preferences. Indeed also offers employer reviews and salary information.
• JobStreet
  https://my.jobstreet.com/ (English)
  Jobs postings on JobStreet cover all levels, from roles for new graduates to senior management, in a wide range of industries such as IT, retail, engineering, finance, manufacturing and HR. The platform also provides articles on career development and employer profiles.

Job Fairs and Career Events

Job fairs and career events offer opportunities to meet recruiters and personnel managers in informal settings. These events are free of charge to jobseekers and are one way to interact with an employer’s representatives and find out more about specific job openings. Most career events are advertised in local newspapers, but many are listed online as well.

The atmosphere is generally relaxed, but professional, and conducive to interviewing. These events will give you an excellent opportunity to practice your networking skills while you learn more about the local employment scene.

Virtual Career Fairs

Virtual career fairs have become more popular as a legacy of COVID-19. They can be hosted by the same groups that sponsor in-person fairs, as well as by job boards or online recruitment companies.

Attending a virtual job fair can be an effective way to connect with career specialists, hiring managers and recruiters via chat rooms, video, streams and/or email, and all from the convenience of your home country and living space.

You will typically be asked to fill out a profile and upload a resume/CV. Registration is usually free, and most virtual fair operators provide technical assistance if you’re having trouble.

Staffing Agencies and Temporary Help Firms

Most staffing agency websites list job openings, which you can search by various criteria, such as key word and location. Usually, you need to register to create job alerts, upload your resume/CV, apply for jobs or send a spontaneous application, and to be contacted by recruiters. Agency websites also often publish career advice, information on the job market and salaries, and other job-hunting resources.

Executive Recruiters and Search Firms

Executive recruiters help jobseekers find professional-level employment in specific markets and industries. In general, executive recruiters/search firms are usually limited to higher-level management, executive, specialty and international positions. Although some firms work in multiple industries, most executive recruiters focus on specific industries.

The best way to get started is to select a relevant firm and email them your cover letter and resume/CV. Follow their instructions for resume/CV submission; usually the firm will get in touch with you if they have an opportunity available. Some firms have jobs posted on their websites, which sometimes also have career advice, job market and salary information, and other resources.

Conclusion

There are many resources that can help make your job search in a new city or country easier. When you relocate, remember that you have a new network just waiting for you. You are only a few clicks away from a bevy of contacts and new opportunities.

Expand your research using GoinGlobal

Knowing as much as you can about a country before you move there can be helpful and enhance your experience. GoinGlobal offers extensive career and employment advice on more than 120 locations worldwide. The country and city career guides provide advice on networking, interviewing, general workplace conduct and so much more, including the ever-popular tips on how to act like a local.

Access to GoinGlobal’s resource database is provided through subscribing institutions. Contact your college/university’s career center or library for access instructions.