Last updated: 22 May, 2024
Whether you’re an international student thinking of studying and working in Australia or a recent graduate looking for your first role in the industry, trying to find a job can be a daunting process.
“International students can face multiple barriers to establishing careers, including unfamiliar job search processes and a whole new workplace culture in Australia,” says Will James, National Careers Manager at Kaplan Business School.
To help, we’ve created an A-Z guide for students, with advice on a range of job-search topics and insider tips from our experienced KBS Career Advisors. From the basics of which job websites you should be browsing, to tips on how to write an effective cover letter and resume, and perfecting your interview skills.
Download the full version of our 'How to Find a Job' guide or; read on for a little sneak peek of the ABC tips included in the guide.
Accelerate your English
(And learn a little Aussie slang)
Having a strong level of both verbal and written English as an international student will impress prospective employers.
You can accelerate your learning through:
'• Reading English news online
• Volunteering in your community
• Finding an English learning app (e.g. Duolingo)
• Making use of academic support resources at your educational institution and enrolling in elective subjects such as Skills for Effective Communication that focus on advanced levels of English vocabulary and grammar.
Applying for any job, whether it’s a part-time or graduate role, can be daunting. Building your confidence can take time. Think about your work and personal strengths. Reflect on your achievements.
Here are a few tips to help you feel better prepared for landing your next job in Australia:
Set short-term and long-term goals
Set realistic career goals and research how to achieve them. Do you need to enrol in a short course to attain the skills you need? Are there networking events you could attend to connect with potential employers?
Attend career workshops
At workshops you can learn from experienced professionals about how to effectively navigate the employment market. For example, KBS hosts free career workshops across our campuses on a range of career-related topics.
Read job descriptions carefully
Responding to the selection criteria in a way that matches your skills to the job description. Taking this tailored approach will increase your chances of getting a first interview, and naturally, boost your confidence!
Promote your unique strengths
As an international student, you may have valuable skillsets that can help you stand out from the crowd, such as being fluent in another language* or having overseas experience. Include these skills in your resume, cover letter and during the interview process.
Do your research
Going into an interview with an informed understanding of the company (their challenges, strengths, needs) will give you the confidence to discuss what you can offer as a candidate. *Include language information only if mentioned in the job ad or relevant for the specific role.
*Include language information only if mentioned in the job ad or relevant for the specific role.
The first go-to resource for any student should be your school or institute’s career service.
At Kaplan Business School, Careers Central can help you with provides valuable career services including:
• Insights into the Australian Job Market
• Creating and tailoring an Australian industry resume and cover letter
• Preparation for job interviews
• Connecting you to employers to complete an Academic Internship that will count towards your degree
• Accessing exclusive careers workshops, fairs and industry events where you can network with employers and develop your employability skills
• Preparing you for the workforce with one-on-one career coaching and
• Accessing exclusive information about graduate roles with a variety of businesses such as local SMEs (small and medium enterprises), not-for-profits and ASX-listed (Australian Stock Exchange) companies.
Interested in more tips? Download the full version of our 'How to Find a Job' guide or read our business career guide.
