Is it Easy to Get a Job in China as a Foreigner?
If you're a foreigner trying to find work in China, you may encounter difficulties due to the language barrier. Many employers insist that job applicants have a basic understanding of Chinese language skills, and many job boards and classifieds are only accessible in the local dialect.
Due to the market's preference for employing locals, foreigners seeking jobs in China face several obstacles. Applicants must provide evidence of their competency in the form of a variety of accomplishments, diplomas, and work experience.
Networking Suggestions for Chinese Businesspeople
If you're a foreigner looking for employment in China, professional networking might be your ticket. As a result, knowing someone who works at the firm where you're applying might be a huge help. There are several benefits to networking since your connections may alert you when a job in their firm becomes available, or they can even suggest you to other people in the organization.
Getting in contact with individuals who are already working in China is the best way to begin networking effectively in China. If you have the chance to visit the city where you want to relocate, make an effort to network there as well. When you do, be prepared with a few business cards that provide your contact information in both Simplified Chinese and English.
Online Job Application in China: What You Need to Know
If professional networking fails to get you a job, you may want to try your luck on job search engines like Google. More and more businesses are putting job openings on the internet. However, the majority of these websites are written in Chinese and aren't always targeted at expats, making it difficult for foreigners to obtain employment. The more fundamental your knowledge of the Chinese language, the better off you will be.
Help with a CV/Resume
It's important to include unusually personal information on your resumes, such as your birthplace and date of marriage, your marital status, and the number of children you have, if applicable. A photograph should be included in the Chinese-style curriculum vitae. This list is arranged in reverse chronological order, with the schooling part coming out on top (most recent accomplishments at the top).
If you notice a job posting that interests you, use your business network in China to see if you can contact someone from the firm. You'll have a far better chance of being employed if you do this. Sending unsolicited applications to several firms in China is a bad idea if you want to get a job there.
The alternative is to post your resume on job search websites and wait for a suitable position to come your way. Some expats have been successful in finding job while living abroad using this technique. However, if things don't work out, you should have a fallback strategy in place.
Tips for Writing a Great Cover Letter
One thing to keep in mind while writing a cover letter is that they are not common in China. Instead, while describing their employment history on their CV, the candidates go into more detail about their accomplishments.
Candidates often add a self-evaluation at the conclusion of their resume. References, which are not usually necessary, are replaced by this area on the CV in lieu of the interests and hobbies section.
Advice on How to Succeed in an Interview
While being nice and professional can help your application, being humble will show your superiors that you respect them while also showing them that you are excited about the opportunity. Please be on time and be prepared. Do not "lose your face" by arriving late.
Teaching English as a Foreign Language is a Common Career Path for People Living Abroad
Many foreigners in China begin their careers as language instructors, especially of the English language. Many of them find out about other job openings or make contact with a potential employer thanks to their pupils. Additionally, this employment provides a great deal of freedom and flexibility, which may be used to network and develop new business relationships. Teaching English is also popular among global thinkers searching for a “trial period” to find out whether China is an appropriate place for them.
Unfortunately, salaries for language instructors are low. Many people's salaries don't cover even the most basic of living needs. In addition, if you want to work in a recognized language school, you'll need a Z visa.