How to find a job in Sydney on a working holiday visa

If you are thinking of applying for an Australian Working Holiday Visa, the first thing you need to think about is the current job market in Australia. Finding work takes priority for most travellers when they first arrive, and Sydney is a popular destination due to its thriving job market and abundance of businesses. Consequently, the job market in Sydney can be very competitive, especially in the summer months, as this is the prime season for working holiday makers. Here are a few tips to give you the best shot at that dream job 'down under'.

Tips for writing a killer CV

On arrival in Australia, there will be a few differences from your hometown that become apparent, one of which is the style of your CV. As is to be expected, the style of resumes in Australia is very different from that of the UK or the U.S. In Sydney, there is no expectation to try to squeeze your entire work history on as few pages as possible. Detail all your experience and responsibilities gained with each role into concise bullet points. Include every relevant bit of your working past. This will be a potential employer’s first impression of you, and you want to make sure they have a comprehensive idea of your capabilities. Make yourself stand out from the crowd, and get creative with your resume. Originality will attract the attention of employers and give you an edge against the competition!

Ways to gain an edge ahead of your competition

The most common hurdle you will encounter is not having local experience. Those working holiday makers who have been in Sydney for a period of time will tell you that, once you have working experience in Sydney, you will find it much easier to find a suitable position. When you first arrive, however, try to target companies that may need your specialised skills, which is where the importance of your resume content is relevant. This is where the help and knowledge of a recruitment agency becomes of vital assistance. They will be able to assess your skills and will have detailed knowledge of the Sydney market and its opportunities.

Be flexible

When considering your first job in Australia, try not to be too inflexible. Your aim should be to get your foot in the door if you are seeking career advancement. Alternatively, if your objective is to earn money, whether that means ending up in hospitality or on a farm in rural Queensland, you need to be willing to get your hands dirty (sometimes literally!).

Summary

Sydney is Australia's largest city and hence attracts the country's largest number of students, backpackers and migrants. The best thing to do is to start your job search early – perhaps even before you arrive if you’re super organised! If you aren't quick enough and take a relaxed approach, you may lose out to your competition. Don't be disheartened if the first few applications result in rejection; just keep trying! Try to get some feedback about why you weren't right for that position, and then focus your attention on improving your application or directing your search elsewhere. Good luck, and have a fantastic time in Sydney! 

Looking for more info and tips about working holidays in Australia? Visit Aussie Working Holiday.com or join the Australia Working Holiday Facebook group.