Applying whilst out of work

antelope · Posted: Fri Jan 16, 2004 12:42 am Post subject: Applying whilst out of work

As a victim of the dotcom/telecoms crash, I retrained in the enviromental sector (see last post 'points for a career changer') but have only just finished and am therefore looking for a job. There aren't many, disappointingly. How will my curently unemployed status affect my chances of emigrating if I apply now? Does a current job have to relate to the profession under which one makes one's application? In other words, if it is an issue and i get a job fixing locks or building or something, will I look odd applying as an ebusiness consultant or environmental specialist and be disqualified therefore?

Thanks for any advice.
David

karltsmith · Posted: Fri Jan 16, 2004 2:41 am Post subject:

Hi David,

Me again......

I think your efforts should be directed towards the career path you prefer.

Your current employment status doesn't matter to an immigration official only perhaps to a potential NZ employer! You have to ask yourself which career path gives you the best chance of securing employment and a work visa. As a career changer you may lose points for lack of experience in the environmental area. Although you don't have to necessarily find a job that exactly matches your previous work experience you must convince the NZIS that you have transferable skills into the position you are being offered. This can be handled by convincing your prospective employer to 'creatively' write a job description to match your background/experience. e.g. if for arguments sake you do get an environmental position you might suggest that the position could also include other duties that would draw on your telecoms experience....e.g. telecom experience could be useful in setting up remote sensing equipment and dataloggers as an example...sounds plausable to me!!!! With a little lateral thinking I think you could build a good case for yourself!

I suggest you get in touch with a company callled Maunsells who are currently recruiting an environmental scientist...funnily enough in my area of expertise...contaminated land but I don't have the resourse management experience! They may have other opportunities though which are coming up! They are a global company and may well be interested in you.

here's the links to there website!

Home page:- http://www.maunsell.co.nz/home/home_default.asp

Vacancies:-

http://www.maunsell.co.nz/working_vacancies/working_vacancies_results.asp

Good hunting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Karl