Key Challenges Filipino Job Seekers Encounter in New Zealand
New Zealand has emerged as a land of promise, offering a plethora of job opportunities, particularly for Filipinos seeking to broaden their horizons. In 2022, the country extended a welcoming hand to healthcare workers from abroad, granting them the prospect of permanent residency. This move has spurred a wave of Filipino professionals to consider a life-changing move overseas.
However, the reality is that despite the allure of these opportunities, working in New Zealand comes with its own set of challenges. If you plan to find a job there, you must set your expectations early on to save time and money.
In this article, we’ll delve into the key hurdles you may encounter when pursuing your dreams in New Zealand. We’ll also explore how partnering with a reputable recruitment agency or headhunter for New Zealand companies can be your ticket to overcoming these challenges.
7 Reasons Why New Zealand is an Appealing Destination for Philippine Workers
New Zealand’s reputation as a remarkable destination for job seekers is no accident. With the benefits below, it’s no wonder it consistently ranks as a top choice for Filipinos in search of a fulfilling and prosperous work-life experience.
1. High quality of life
One of the reasons why Filipinos work abroad is that they want to experience comfortable living. Fortunately, New Zealand is one of the top 10 countries in the world with the best quality of life. It has high standards of education, healthcare, and safety—making it an ideal place to work and live for Filipinos.
2. Strong economy
New Zealand has a stable economy with low unemployment and a growing demand for skilled workers. In fact, the country ranks 29 on the list of the world’s richest countries. Its inflation in 2022 sat at around 7.17%, which is low compared to Europe with 8.83% and the United States with 8%.
3. Attractive wages and salaries
Filipino workers can expect to earn higher wages and salaries in New Zealand than in the Philippines. For instance, carpenters in New Zealand earn an average of NZD 58,695 or P1.9 million a year. Engineers can also generate a yearly income of NZD 94,650 or P3 million.
4. Friendly and welcoming culture
New Zealanders or Kiwis are known for their friendly and welcoming attitude, and Filipinos are generally well-received in the country. In fact, the U.S. News and World Report ranked New Zealand as the third friendliest country in the world.
5. Opportunities for advancement
New Zealand’s commitment to education and innovation, coupled with a strong job market and a culture that values work-life balance, makes it an ideal place for career development. The country’s diverse industries and growing sectors create a fertile ground for you to advance in your careers while enjoying a high quality of life.
6. A chance to experience a new culture
The country’s rich Māori heritage and its multicultural society provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant blend of traditions and perspectives. Whether it’s exploring indigenous customs, enjoying diverse cuisines, or participating in local festivals, living and working in New Zealand offers an enriching cultural experience like no other.
7. Dedicated government support
New Zealand has several specific programs and initiatives in place to attract Filipino workers. For example, the government offers many types of work visas for Filipino workers, including the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa and the Accredited Employer Work Visa.
Common Challenges Filipinos Face When Looking for Job Opportunities in New Zealand
Despite the benefits above, moving to and working in New Zealand comes with the following challenges.
• Visa and immigration rules
The visa and immigration rules for New Zealand can be complex and difficult to navigate, especially if you’re not familiar with the system. There are several visa categories available to Filipino workers, and the requirements for each category vary. You must also meet certain health and character requirements to be eligible for a visa.
Moreover, the process of applying for a visa can be time-consuming and expensive. You may need to provide evidence of your skills and qualifications, as well as a job offer from a New Zealand employer.
• Cultural differences
New Zealand and the Philippines have different cultures. For example, businesses in New Zealand have less organizational layers, exposing you to various areas in your job. They also treat employees equally, which may be shocking if you come from a workplace where workers treat their seniors with reverence.
• Limited local professional network
You may have a limited local professional network when you move to New Zealand. You may need to invest time and effort in building connections and understanding your industry to acclimate well in the country’s professional setting.
• Employment Scams
Unfortunately, there are some unscrupulous employers who target Filipino workers who are new to New Zealand. These employers may offer fake job opportunities or promise high salaries and benefits they never deliver. You should be wary of any job abroad that seems too good to be true.
The Role of a Recruitment Agency in Overcoming Employment Challenges in New Zealand
• Visa and immigration
A recruitment agency can help you identify the most appropriate visa category for your needs and to complete the necessary paperwork. They can also provide information about the visa application process and answer any questions you may have.
• Cultural differences
They can inform you about the New Zealand work culture, such as the dress code, work pace, and employer expectations. They can also help you understand the New Zealand way of life, such as the social norms and customs.
• Local professional network
Recruitment agencies typically have established networks in the countries they serve. One can help you find potential employers and other Filipino workers who already live and work in New Zealand. They can also organize networking events you can join.
• Employment scams
Working with a registered and reputable recruitment agency can help you avoid employment scams, such as unrealistic job offers and promises of high salaries and benefits. They can also help you verify the legitimacy of job opportunities.
How to Identify Reputable Headhunters for New Zealand Jobs
With so many recruitment agencies or headhunters available, it’s hard to know which you should trust. Follow these tips to narrow your search and start your job search journey.
• Ask for referrals
Talk to your friends, family, colleagues, and former classmates to see if they have any experience working with headhunters. Their feedback can help you gauge whether an agency or headhunter can address your needs.
• Search online
The internet can be your best friend. Use social media and search engines to look for agencies or headhunters by industry and location.
• Look for headhunters who specialize in your field
Working with a recruiter or headhunter who specializes in your field can increase your chances of finding one who fully understands your skills and experience. For instance, a recruitment agency specializing in IT can help you find connections in New Zealand’s tech scene.
• Check the headhunter’s reputation
Read online reviews and testimonials to see what other job seekers have said about the headhunter’s services.
• Interview the headhunter
Once you have found a few headhunters you’re interested in working with, schedule an interview to learn more about their services and how they can help you. Here are some specific questions you can ask during the interview:
• How long have you been a recruiter or headhunter? • What industries do you specialize in? • What is your success rate? • What is your process for finding and placing candidates? • How will you work with me to find the right job?
Don’t Face Your Job Search Journey Alone
Ready to find job opportunities in New Zealand? Staffhouse International Resources has your back. We have deployed 30,000+ workers for big companies in our partner countries such as New Zealand. This encompasses in-demand industries such as Agriculture, Automotive, Aviation, Construction, Engineering, Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, Oil and gas, and Petrochemical industries.
We match employers with competent and dedicated Filipino workers like you, ensuring a culture fit and job satisfaction.
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