Things to Keep in Mind When Job Hunting in New Zealand

Many job seekers in New Zealand send out numerous resumes but face repeated rejections, with few responses despite sending out hundreds of applications. For Chinese job seekers, as a minority group, the challenges in the job market are even greater. Many fail to secure their dream jobs because they unknowingly break certain rules or overlook key cultural aspects of job hunting in New Zealand.

12 Key Considerations for Job Hunting in New Zealand

1. Effective communication is critical for any job in New Zealand, and good communication requires strong English skills. Most employers don’t want to repeat instructions multiple times. To secure a good position, improve your English and learn interview techniques, even if you need to cram beforehand.
2. Don’t discuss salary before the employer is convinced of your value. Companies will only consider hiring you when they see potential profit from your work.
3. You may not get what you deserve if you don’t ask. Once the company shows interest, boldly present your salary expectations, aligning them with the current job market. Asking for too little can make employers doubt your abilities.
4. Address your requirements directly to the hiring manager or HR manager—those with the authority to make hiring decisions.
5. Once a company confirms their interest in hiring you, negotiate salary first, then discuss benefits and other perks later.
6. Set a minimum salary requirement before job hunting, and confidently reject offers below your threshold. New Zealand HR departments are typically easy to communicate with.
7. If the offered salary is lower than expected, express your disappointment clearly, emphasizing your experience and skills.
8. Avoid issuing ultimatums if your demands aren’t met. New Zealand employers are experienced, and threats will only backfire.
9. Don’t pin all your hopes on just one or two job opportunities. Print out 20-50 resumes and apply broadly to similar roles.
10. Secure what you deserve when hired, and don’t rely on promises of future raises or promotions. Companies may not be able to deliver on such promises if their financial situation declines.
11. Stay calm when discussing salary, and approach the conversation as you would with a friend. Most recruiters are just HR representatives fulfilling their role.
12. Don’t give up other job opportunities or quit your current job until you’ve received a formal written offer and signed a contract. In New Zealand, contracts are legally binding, and until signed, verbal promises hold no weight.