Receiving an overseas job offer is such a special moment. It brings excitement, relief and the hope of building a whole new life.
At KoruTalent, we are incredibly privileged to share these moments with our candidates. We hear the excitement in their voices and we know how much time, courage and hard work it has taken to reach that point.
But there is something we believe every candidate should think about before accepting an overseas role.
While the job offer may have your name on it, you may not be the only person leaving a career behind.
Your partner could also be saying goodbye to a job they enjoy, a regular income, trusted colleagues and a professional identity they have worked hard to build. They may be excited about the move and incredibly proud of you, while quietly wondering what their own working life will look like in a new country.
That is a very real part of relocating and it deserves an honest conversation.
Talk about:
• The type of work your partner would like to do
• Whether their qualifications will be recognised
• What job opportunities are available in the area where you will be living
• How your working hours or shift pattern may affect their options
• Whether transport or sharing one vehicle could make getting to work difficult
• How childcare responsibilities will be managed if you are both working
It is also important to discuss what will happen if finding the right role takes longer than expected. Starting again in a new country can take time, even for someone with excellent experience. Knowing how you will support each other through that period can make a huge difference.
There are also things your partner can do before the move:
• Update their CV for the New Zealand market
• Gather their qualifications and employment documents
• Contact their referees and confirm their details
• Research employers and job opportunities in the area
• Check whether their occupation requires registration or licensing
• Begin building professional connections before arriving
Finding these things out early will give them more time to prepare and help them feel that their career is part of the plan too.
Most importantly, make space for a conversation that goes deeper than, “Are you happy to move?”
Ask what they are looking forward to, what they are worried about and what they will need from you to feel part of the new life you are planning together.
At KoruTalent, we do not see a successful placement as simply getting someone onto a plane and into a job.
We care about the person behind the CV and the family standing beside them. We want our candidates and their families to arrive with realistic expectations, feel supported and have the opportunity to build a life where everyone can flourish.
One job offer can change the future of an entire family.
Make sure you are planning for both careers and not only the one printed on the employment agreement.Catch you next Tuesday!
