New Zealand poses unique challenges for Indian migrants who have recently completed their studies. Navigating the local job market, unfamiliar cultural norms and language barriers can make it challenging to secure desired employment. 

Also, facing interviews can be intimidating as they may differ from how they are conducted in India. 

Migrants can benefit by networking and seeking support from migrant organisations to overcome these hurdles. 

Starting with the job search process for new migrants, it is critical to define your professional goals and align them with available opportunities in the job market. 

Having a clear professional goal and leveraging your interests, education, and past experience is crucial when searching for a new job. It helps you align your aspirations and skills with the right opportunities.

Tailoring application materials, such as CVs and cover letters, is another key aspect. Applicants should customise these documents to highlight relevant skills, education and experiences which are relevant to the job being applied for. 

Customising your CV and cover letter shows your genuine interest in the specific job, making you stand out from other applicants. It helps the employer understand how your background aligns with their requirements, increasing your chances of getting called for an interview and ultimately landing the job.

It is also important to recognise the value that Indian migrants bring to the workplace. Applicants should embrace their unique skills, experiences, and cultural backgrounds, as they can offer fresh perspectives and valuable contributions to New Zealand's professional landscape.

Talking about your unique background while acknowledging the cultural diversity of New Zealand in a job interview demonstrates your ability to thrive in diverse environments and contributes to a broader understanding of different cultures. This can impress interviewers and increase your chances of being selected.

Research is another crucial element of interview preparation. Candidates should familiarise themselves with the industry and specific companies they are applying to, gaining insights into their work culture and job profiles. 

It helps you understand the job requirements, allowing you to prepare relevant examples and tailor your responses. Knowledge about the industry and company also shows your genuine interest and enables you to ask informed questions, demonstrating your enthusiasm and fit for the role.

During job interviews, it is crucial to focus on communication skills. This can be achieved by engaging in regular practice of common interview questions and refining both their verbal and non-verbal communication techniques. 

Maintaining a sense of confidence and professionalism throughout the interview process is key, as it enables you to leave a lasting impression on the interviewers.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind about your body language to reflect confidence and professionalism during the interview:

  • Maintain proper posture: Sit upright and avoid slumping to project an image of confidence and attentiveness.
  • Establish eye contact: Demonstrate engagement and interest by maintaining consistent eye contact with the interviewer.
  • Employ a welcoming smile: Utilize appropriate facial expressions, including a genuine smile, to foster a positive and amiable impression.
  • Exercise restraint with hand gestures: Use deliberate and purposeful hand gestures sparingly to augment communication, while refraining from excessive or distracting movements.
  • Mind your body language: Stay mindful of nervous tendencies such as fidgeting or crossing arms, striving to exhibit a relaxed and open conduct.

New migrants should approach job interviews with confidence, thorough preparation, and a positive attitude. By doing so, they can tap into their abilities and start a rewarding career in their new country.

(Fariya is an experienced Australia and New Zealand Coaching Alliance-certified professional life coach. You can reach her at www.lifecoachingwithFariya.com)