30 Jul 2023
What is the way to find a job in the UK while being in India?
- Aarav Chatterjee
- 30 Jul 2023
- Career & Job Search Advice
Getting Ready: Basic Checks to Make
Let's start the journey with the essentials. If you're in India and planning to secure a job in the UK, these are the things you should consider first. Make sure you have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months at the time of travel. The UK government requires most job-seekers from non-European countries to have a work visa, so do your research on visa requirements and application procedures. Additionally, tune your curriculum vitae (CV) according to UK standards. What we usually call a resume here in India is referred to as a CV there. Importantly, do include references in your CV, as it's a common expectation in the UK. Also, familiarise yourself with the National Insurance number, equivalent to our PAN number, which you would need while working there.
Knowing Your Opportunities: The Most In-Demand Jobs in the UK
The UK job market is diverse, offering opportunities across a wide range of sectors. Certain areas, however, actively recruit international talent more than others. These include healthcare, engineering, information technology, teaching, and finance. If you're skilled in any of these areas, your chances of securing employment are much higher. Do extensive research to understand the demands and requirements of your chosen sector. Remember to consider your personal interests and abilities, as working in a totally alien field may prove challenging in the long run.
Time to Apply: UK Job Portals and Websites
Now comes the exciting part - applying for jobs. Think of it as fishing. The bigger the pool, the better your chances of catching something. The digital age has made job-searching easier, with platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Monster among others. Also, don't forget to explore specialised job portals pertaining to your field. There's Computappoint for IT, Top Language Jobs for linguists, or Jobs.ac.uk for academic and research openings. Carefully read the job description and tailor your application accordingly.
Make Your Mark: Acing the Job Interview
The invitation to an interview means you've crossed the first hurdle. Interviews usually happen over Skype or other video calling platforms when you're applying from abroad. Familiarise yourself with these platforms and make sure your internet connection is glitch-free. You should also brush up your English communication skills. A tip for you - the British love their humor, so sharing a light joke or two could work wonders. It just shows them you’re relatable. However, keep a balance - you don’t want to come off as unprofessional.
Crunching Numbers: Salaries and Cost of Living in the UK
Financial considerations are pivotal in deciding whether to work abroad. On average, the salaries in the UK tend to be higher than in India, taking into account currency conversion. But the cost of living is also considerably higher. Calculate your prospective earnings and expenditures carefully. Consider factors like accommodation, food, transport, taxes, and lifestyle habits. And don't forget to take into account the currency exchange rate.
Buddy up with the Brits: Understanding British Work Culture
Work culture in the UK, like everywhere else, has its own quirks and norms. Workplace punctuality is highly valued, as is straightforward communication, albeit with a polite undertone. The British also value their after-work socialising. Participating in these activities helps to solidify workplace relationships. Also, keep in mind that tea breaks are ingrained in British working life, so you might want to start developing a taste for tea!
The Waiting Game: Work Visa Approval and Moving In
After all is said and done, there’s always a wait before you can pack your bags. Receiving your work visa approval can take up to a few months. Use this time to learn more about the country, familiarise yourself with the accent, and keep applying for other jobs as a backup plan. Once you get your visa, it's time to move! Make a list of all the things you need to do before leaving - from finding accommodation to booking tickets.
Life in the UK: What to Expect
This is where things get really interesting. Living in the UK is different from what you're used to in India - from the weather to the food to the accent. There's so much to explore in terms of culture, history, and tourism. British people are generally polite and reserved, but don't forget their famous sense of humour. And remember - when in Rome, do as the Romans do, or in this case, the Brits!
This journey might seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can be a rewarding one. Like the time when I moved to the UK. I had just finished my studies in Bangalore, India, and was trying my luck in the foreign job market. It took me six months to land my first job in an IT firm in London, but the experience was worth it. I vividly remember the day I got my job confirmation email - a sense of achievement coupled with a whirlwind of emotions. After my initial struggles with the change, I now feel at home here. It's been a journey of growth, adventure, and self-discovery. May your journey be the same!
