Employment in New Zealand

Let's look at the same old classic lecturer-in-the-class-asking-question case!! When a question is asked, even if you know the answer, you prefer to be a quite spectator. Is it because of your habit or are you an introvert? Or is it simply a case of lack of interest? Just to let you know; this fear, shyness, anxiety or procrastination can hold you back in almost all the areas of your life including your career. As they say, 'to make an omelet, you have to break the shell' similarly, 'to become more than an individual with hidden potential, the shell, the protective prison has to be broken'. Your shell  is stopping you from showcasing the real you to the outside world. As a result comes the Tip # 3 # 3 Break out of your shell Only after the egg's protective shell is broken the potential of what lies inside is met. Whether its fate is to serve someone by supplying nutrients or to live its own life; it must shed the shell!! How?? Make friends...

We all hate to admit when we don't know something!! Especially when you are in a new country, new surroundings, amongst new faces and sounds; trying to figure out your own way could not just result in more work but additional stress as well. So, I am here to tell you: It's OK to ask!! We don't know everything and it's alright to admit that. Actually sometimes this could be your best strategy and my  Tip # 2 # 2 Seek Support Remember, there is nothing wrong in asking for help Even if you come from a culture or a country where asking for help is considered to be rude or inappropriate. Ask for help even if you are shy; it would be difficult for the first few times but it will come out right. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness But please be polite when you ask for help In general, you want to be clear, concise, complete and polite  Reach out to your friends and family Remember if your friends don't motivate you or inspire you...

How did you imagine yourself as an international student before you became one?              Partying? Studying? Or just walking on the campus carrying books with an awesome smile like you see on all the college advertisements? Most of us have these fantasies. Thanks to movies, TV and advertisements!! However, it is quite alarming to see how many students venture out to new unknown territories without appropriate planning. Sorry to break your dreams guys... This is no movie world!!! Employers in NZ are looking for students who lead a balanced life, are resilient, and who can communicate. So, other than studying hard, in the series of 'Top #5 tips for international students in NZ', here is my Tip # 1 # Communication Skills Ya...Ya... I know a lot has been said about it and you've heard everyone asking you to improve your communication skills, but here's how you should do it: Remember, your classroom is one of the best places to impro...

Ya, we all know John F. Kennedy once said " Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country ." I know as an international student coming to New Zealand, you might feel, “What’s there in it for me?” Or “I mean, why should I even consider what John said, I am not in the US…?” Or “John..??? Who is this John guy???” Or “Man… I have got so much to worry about in my life and here we are talking about John!!” Guys, I am not here to give you some lessons on patriotism using what John F. Kennedy said after winning his presidential elections in the US in the year 1961 but yes, I would like to use this famous quote from his speech as a backdrop to explain one common personality trait that has been observed in all those international students who struggle to get what they aspired for in their careers. They all know… and without doubt… they know what they WANT It’s a shame that none of them know wha...

So you are new in the country? Obviously with no Kiwi work experience!! Don’t have a degree! Not enough experience!! Still studying!!! And trying to get your first job? Don’t let lack of experience or job skills or your visa status prevent you from getting a job!! You should try working for an unskilled job. These are the jobs in the service, sales and some labour areas. There is nothing wrong with working on an unskilled job; someone has to fill these needed positions. Why don’t you take that initiative and get that sought after Kiwi work experience & a strong work reference while you are pursuing your studies. Easy said than done… right? Many of you are ready to work on these unskilled roles but are still facing rejections. Have you ever wondered why?  To help you get some answers, I am using few real time conversations that I have had with students as examples and bringing in   #7 tips that will help you succeed with your search ...