How do I apply for a job in China?

The Chinese labor market has been expanding at a healthy clip over the last several years, but foreigners who are unsure of how to break in should bear in mind the importance of language and contacts. To be hired at a Chinese corporation, it's best to have a connection there. It's possible that the application process may require you to reveal some surprising aspects of your life, such as the total number of children you have.

A Guide for Foreigners Seeking Employment in China

One of the primary challenges you may face while trying to find work in China as a foreigner is the language barrier. Job portals and classified advertising are sometimes only accessible in the local language, and many employers demand their applicants to have at least a rudimentary understanding of the language.

High standards are placed on foreign workers in China since the market prioritizes bringing in natives. Candidates are expected to demonstrate their qualifications via a range of accomplishments, academic credentials, and professional experiences.

Strategies for Chinese Professional Networking

In China, whether you're an expat or a local, knowing the right people is essential for landing a job. That's why it helps if you know someone who works for the business you're applying to. To get into the industry, network with people who can put you in touch with available positions at their companies or who can suggest you to their coworkers.

Joining online job-networking discussion groups and making contact with individuals currently working in China is a great first step toward building a solid networking foundation. Get out there and meet people in person if you can if you want to make a successful relocation to a new city. When doing so, get some business cards printed with your contact information in both Simplified Chinese and English.

How to Use China's Online Job Application System

If you are unsuccessful in finding employment via social or professional networking, you may want to try your luck with online job boards. Nowadays, job openings are widely publicized on many web platforms. It is difficult for foreigners to obtain employment prospects since most of these websites are in Chinese and are not always aimed at expats. Therefore, knowing even a little bit of Chinese will put you ahead of the game.

Hints for Your Resume or CV

You may need to include some unusually private information on your resume, such as your date and place of birth, marital status, and, in certain situations, the number of children and ethnicity. If you're applying for a job in China, your resume must have a recent picture. The schooling portion appears first, followed by the job experience section, and both are stated in reverse chronological order (most recent accomplishments first).

If you notice a job posting that seems like a good match, you should check if someone you know in the Chinese business world can put you in contact with a representative from the firm. Possibilities of being recruited for the job you want will rise dramatically. It's important to remember that applying to firms in China without being asked to is frowned upon.

There's also the option of posting your resume online and waiting for an employer to discover you. Through such channels, some internationals have been successful in securing employment in their host countries. If this doesn't work out, you should have a backup plan.

Advice on Cover Letters

You may want to skip the cover letter if you're applying in China. Instead, candidates highlight their successes in their job history summaries.

Candidates often add a self-evaluation at the conclusion of their resume. It's preferred over the CV's optional references section, and it takes the place of the applicant's interests and extracurricular activities.

Advice for Your Upcoming Job Interview

You should be respectful to your superiors, act formally and humble, and speak confidently about your qualifications when you are asked for an interview after sending in your application. Avoid "losing your face" by adhering to these guidelines: don't be late, always have business cards on available, and dress professionally.