Applying for Jobs in Australia - Tips for job applicants from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds
By Annabelle Lam, AACC member
There is nothing like the excitement of being in a different country. What a wonderful experience to discover another culture, enjoy sightseeing and the different cuisine, and compare what is similar as well as what is different to one’s own culture. However, studying or working in an environment that is vastly different from one’s home country, can be difficult.
The transition, like other transitions, can cause stress as one adapts and adjusts. What can make this easier is reducing the number of other changes in one’s life where possible, and finding connections between new experiences and familiar ones. Finding support to cope with changes makes the process easier too.
Work is very much a part of our identity. A common question people ask when they first meet someone is “What do you do?”, referring to their occupation.
This article aims to help people who are new to Australia to develop their confidence as they look for work by introducing them to Australian expectations in the area of the selection process.
It is common for employers to have at least two parts to their selection process:
- the ‘shortlisting process’ based on review of your résumé and application letter, and
- the employment interview.
Résumé
Consider these points when preparing your résumé:
- Your résumé provides a summary of your education, training, employment, skills, professional achievements, awards, hobbies and interests.
- Résumés are generally two to four pages in length.
- Include contact details such as mobile, email and alternative contacts in case you cannot be reached. If you have a mobile phone, ensure it is charged and has enough credit.
- It is not advisable to include your date of birth.
- Include volunteer and community activities.
- Include referees – these are people who can speak positively about your work abilities and work habits. Sometimes these people are contacted if you are interviewed for a position.
Application letter
It is recommended that an application letter accompany your résumé.
- It should be no more than one A4 page long.
- The purpose of an application letter is to highlight the qualifications, skills and experience you have that make you a suitable candidate for the position, so each letter should be written to suit each job you apply for.
Interview
If you are successful in being shortlisted, it is common to be invited to attend an interview.
- During the interview, you will be expected to answer questions. Usually you will be invited to ask questions at the end of an interview. You may wish to ask questions about areas such as training that is available and opportunities for promotion or movement within the organisation.
- Some employers will keep your résumé for a year or so, and will consider you for future vacancies if you are not initially successful. You may ask them if that is possible.
- Research the company before the interview to help you prepare for the interview, and to work out questions you can ask to gain more information about the position.
- Arrive around 15 minutes early.
- Sometimes more than one person will interview you. This is commonly referred to as a panel interview.
- Bring a notepad and pen, a copy of your résumé and application letter (taking a few copies is a good idea in case it is a panel interview) and your portfolio (folder of your certificates and other relevant documents).
- Bring the name of the person you will be meeting, and the address and phone number of the company in case you need to contact them on the way to the interview.
- Make sure your mobile phone is turned off during your interview.
- Ensure you know where the organisation is and plan your transport accordingly.
- Decide what you will wear and have clothes and shoes ready.
- Organise for your interview the night before as it will help to reduce any nervousness.
- Thank your interviewer for your interview.