In a globalised, digital world with online databases that advertise ‘millions of vacancies’, finding a job might seem to be easier than ever for expat partners. So why does Global Connection still believe in the personalised approach?
Needle in the haystack
Owners of recruitment platforms would have us all believe that a job search is now not an issue for anyone, thanks to the many millions of vacancies posted on their websites. There are even job boards claiming to advertise over 250 million vacancies ‘especially for expat partners’. But I strongly believe these websites cannot satisfy the unique needs of the individual expat partner.
Wrong expectations
I would even argue that sending expat partners in the direction of such databases sets the wrong expectations. You are asking them to search for a needle in the haystack. Going from one website to another, they are encouraged to take a ‘spray and pray’ approach. Perhaps it ‘works’ for some – if you keep throwing mud against the wall, eventually it sticks, as the saying goes. But compared to our strategy, it’s an inefficient (and highly impersonal) approach that can end in disappointment and much frustration. Because the real goal for every individual expat partner seeking work is finding the right job, not just ‘any old job’ – and that, we strongly believe, requires a tailored approach.
The Global Connection way
Rather than scraping the internet to list ‘millions’ of job openings, our approach begins with a one-on-one consultation to not only understand the partner’s career goals, skills, and preferences, but also their individual situation. From that starting point, our experienced consultant offers an optional Needs Assessment to identify fulfilling career paths and opportunities. We can also introduce the partner to a job search coach, who understands the culture, and who (this is very important) can also motivate the expat partner and bolster their self-belief.
Local expertise and insight
On our website we also feature detailed information on 180+ city locations, including insights into local job markets, networking opportunities, and advice from trusted career coaches. Every city page opens with a link to a world map created by our long-term partners Permits Foundation, which helps to answer a vital question: “Can I work?”
Our feedback
And how do we know this personalised approach ‘succeeds’? Because our consultants and our media team speak directly to the expat partners, we get to hear their stories as well as their appreciation. I would be more than happy to share testimonials, articles, as well as relevant surveys, should you need more convincing that Big Data falls short when it comes to meeting the unique needs of the expat partner.
