Just Moved To Australia? How To Land Your First Job In Financial Services

If you have just moved to Australia you will realise there are limitless opportunities in the financial services industry, but you will also realise it can be very competitive, especially if you are international and an unknown quantity. Navigating your way through job ads, applications and interviews is tough for locals and extra tough for newcomers.

Below I list a number of important tips that will boost your opportunities and get you involved in the industry as soon as possible.

1. Build your online presence

Do not limit your job search to SEEK. LinkedIn is a powerful networking tool that Australians really engage with. It will provide you access to connect with local industry professionals and is a tool used by recruiters and companies to learn more about you. Make sure you change your location in LinkedIn and update what you are looking to do.

2. Have a local address and contact number

On average, there are approximately 100 resumes received for each job opening. Your resume will face stiff competition and you will be surprised that having a local address and contact number is crucial. Most often, you will not be contacted if you do not have local details (mobile number and address).

3. Get your Tax File Number (TFN)

The TFN is your personal reference number in the taxation and superannuation system. You will need a TFN to get paid. You must be in Australia to start your TFN application. Don’t forget about choosing a superannuation fund as well! It will be a good exercise in familiarising yourself with who the leading superannuation funds are and what products they offer.

4. Be transparent on your visa status / work eligibility

Unless you are a citizen or permanent resident, you will need a visa that allows you to work here. There are various types of visas available and they have different work eligibilities. You will need to become an expert on knowing your work rights because not all recruiters and hiring managers will be familiar with this.

5. First impressions matter

We are all built to form perceptions quickly. Always arrive early for interviews or meetings, dress professionally and research your field and industry from the start. It will not only provide you an opportunity to create a good impression but also to hold a more meaningful discussion.

6. Be flexible and realistic with your job and salary expectations

While you should not lower your expectations, you should have a realistic outlook when you start applying for jobs. Ideally, we would all want a permanent full-time role but be open to contract and part-time roles. Typically, a contract / part-time role provides you the opportunity to get your foot in the door, network and prove yourself. Plus, it gives you and the employer a chance to test one another before either party commits. We have seen successes across many contract / part-time roles being extended and converted to permanent roles but most importantly, it adds value to your resume.

7. Network. Network. Network.

Melbourne is a well networked city. Be bold and proactive. Send emails, make phone calls, constantly engage with people you know, take advantage of your university alumni and join professional organisations like FINSIA, AIST, CFA, ASFA, Women in Super etc. The more people you are connected to, the more they are likely to remember you and perhaps recommend you to their network. Superannuation is a very Australian centric industry but is rapidly growing and it would help to learn about and belong to relevant member bodies.

8. Reach out to Kaizen Recruitment or go direct to the companies

Kaizen has helped many new Australians / immigrants find great opportunities in the local financial services industry. At Kaizen Recruitment, our philosophy is simple; we put the service, solution and commitment back into recruitment. We are here to help but we can’t help everyone. Follow companies of interest online and via LinkedIn as companies will want to hear you’re up to.

Kaizen Recruitment specialises financial services recruitment across funds management, wealth management, superannuation, investment consulting and insurance. We are based in Melbourne and Sydney. For assistance or further information please telephone our office at +61 3 9095 7157 or submit an online form.

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