How to apply for a job in New Zealand
If you’ve just finished university and you’re looking for a job, or if you’re still studying in New Zealand and need a part-time job, here are some tips to help you with your application.
There may be many people applying for the same job as you, so it’s worth putting in a little time and effort to make your application stand out from the crowd.
The first thing you need to do before you even start looking is to check that your visa allows you to work in New Zealand.
Read the job description carefully
It may seem obvious but make sure you read the job description thoroughly. Even if you scanned the job description before you decided to apply, it is still a good idea to go back and read it a few more times to make sure you did not miss any details.
What are New Zealand employers looking for?
New Zealand employers are typically small companies with no more than 20 employees. They’re looking for people who can make a positive contribution to their organisation — people who have a good attitude and can get along with the team. For this reason, your application should show them that you can:
- Arrive on time and get the job done
- Get along with customers and staff
- Put in the time and effort required
- Solve problems
- Write and speak English confidently
- Use technology competently
Employers will usually ask for:
- a resume (also known as a curriculum vitae or CV)
- a cover letter explaining why you think you are the right person for the job
- references from past employers (as well as character references from people who know you well)
Tailor your CV to the job
Your CV is proof that you can do the job. It should be written in a way that makes it easy to read, so that the employer can find the information they’re looking for and should look professional. If you’re not sure how to format your CV there are lots of templates online that you could use.
Tip: Two things that may differ from CVs for other countries are: In New Zealand you only include information that is relevant to the job you’re applying for. Ensure you list your experience historically starting with the most recent experience.
- Contact information (check your email address is a professional one and not something cute like littlemouse@hotmail.com)
- Personal Statement (A short paragraph about yourself and why you think you’re right for the job. Include any unique personality traits)
- Work Experience (showing key responsibilities and achievements, paid, unpaid and voluntary)
- Relevant skills for the job (include soft skills as well as job specific skills)
- Education (grades and any special achievements)
You could also include things like training and courses you’ve taken, languages you speak, awards and volunteer experience — anything that shows you’re ambitious and willing to learn.
Tip: Don’t include your photo, unless it’s specifically asked for in the ad
You may already have a CV. If you do, make sure it’s up to date and that the skills you’ve included match the skills in the ad. Try to be specific. For example, if they’re asking for leadership skills, include examples of when you motivated team members or how your decision-making led to great results. Use words and phrases listed in the ad. There are many ways of expressing something but if you use words from the ad itself employers will know what you mean. Use positive, action-orientated words such as organised, hardworking, motivated or creative.
Tip: If you have a profile on LinkedIn make sure your job application matches your profile.
NZ employers usually ask for a cover letter
You may wonder why write a cover letter at all, especially if you’re sending in a CV.
Your cover letter and CV should complement each other but do different things. Your CV lists your skills, work experience and education, whereas your cover letter is more of a conversation, where you introduce yourself, say why you’re interested in the job and why you’re a good fit.
It should be shorter than your CV — one page is ideal, written in clear, conversational style English without exaggeration or superlatives. (Although you’re trying to sell yourself it’s important to avoid bragging too much because it often comes across as unbelievable.)
It’s also a good idea to do some research about the company you want to work for. Visit their website, go on their social media pages and read any recent news about them. Then use that information to write a persuasive letter that shows how your qualifications match with the company’s needs, goals and culture.
References
You don’t need to include references in your application — employers usually ask for these after your interview, but it is a good idea to get in touch with your referees to let them know that the employer may be in contact. If this is your first job and you don’t have any job referees in New Zealand, include employers from jobs you had in your home country. It’s a good idea to include a character reference as well. This is usually from someone who is familiar with your personality, character traits and what you’re like outside of a work environment.
Check and double-check
Lastly check your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammar errors and make sure it reads well. You could get someone you trust to have a look over it. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can spot anything that needs attention.
When that’s all done, and you’re confident you’ve sold yourself as best you can, you’re ready to send your application off. While you’re waiting to hear back, why not send off some more applications for other jobs you like the look of? That way you have more chance of success. Good luck!