New Zealand offers a thriving job market in digital marketing, attracting talent from around the world. If you’re based offshore and interested in securing a digital marketing role in New Zealand, there are several strategies you can employ to increase your chances of success. This guide will walk you through the key steps, from job searching to applying, and provide tips to make your offshore job hunt more effective.
- 1. Understand the New Zealand Job Market
- 2. Use Job Search Platforms
- 3. Network with Industry Professionals
- 4. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter
- 5. Consider Working Remotely
- 6. Prepare for Interviews
- 7. Stay Persistent and Positive
- 8. Understanding Visa Requirements for Working in New Zealand
- Final Tips
- Conclusion
1. Understand the New Zealand Job Market
Before diving into job applications, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the digital marketing landscape in New Zealand. The country has a growing demand for skilled professionals in areas like SEO, content marketing, PPC, social media management, and e-commerce. Cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch are hubs for digital marketing roles, with numerous agencies and in-house positions available.
- Key Industries: New Zealand’s digital marketing jobs are prominent in sectors like e-commerce, tourism, education, and technology.
- Market Trends: Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in the digital marketing industry, as employers often look for candidates with knowledge of cutting-edge practices.
2. Use Job Search Platforms
Leverage online job search platforms that cater to the New Zealand market. These platforms often have filters to show remote or offshore opportunities, making it easier to find roles open to international candidates.
- Seek.co.nz: One of the most popular job boards in New Zealand, Seek offers a wide range of digital marketing roles. You can filter your search to include remote positions or roles that are open to international applicants.
- LinkedIn: Many New Zealand companies post job openings on LinkedIn. Use the platform to search for jobs and connect with hiring managers and recruiters in New Zealand.
- Indeed.co.nz: This global job board also caters to the New Zealand market, offering numerous digital marketing roles. Use location filters to find jobs that allow for remote work or are open to international applicants.
- Trade Me Jobs: A local job board that features a variety of job listings across New Zealand, including digital marketing roles.
3. Network with Industry Professionals
Networking is crucial when searching for a job offshore. Building relationships with industry professionals in New Zealand can provide insights into the job market and potentially lead to job opportunities.
- Join LinkedIn Groups: Participate in LinkedIn groups focused on New Zealand’s digital marketing industry. Engage in discussions, share your expertise, and connect with professionals who can offer advice or job leads.
- Attend Virtual Events: Look for virtual conferences, webinars, and networking events hosted by New Zealand-based organizations. These events are excellent opportunities to meet industry professionals and learn about job openings.
- Connect with Recruiters: Reach out to recruiters who specialize in digital marketing roles in New Zealand. They can help match you with potential employers who are open to hiring offshore talent.
4. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter
When applying for jobs in New Zealand, it’s essential to tailor your CV and cover letter to the local job market. Highlight your digital marketing experience, particularly any international work, and emphasize your adaptability and willingness to work in a different time zone if required.
- Showcase Relevant Skills: Ensure your CV highlights the specific digital marketing skills that are in demand in New Zealand, such as SEO, Google Ads, content strategy, or social media management. Essential Certificates for a Digital Marketing Career
- Emphasize Soft Skills: New Zealand employers value soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Include examples of how you’ve used these skills in your previous roles.
- Cultural Fit: Demonstrate an understanding of New Zealand’s work culture and how you can fit into a Kiwi workplace.
5. Consider Working Remotely
Given the global shift towards remote work, many New Zealand companies are open to hiring offshore digital marketers who can work remotely. This option allows you to gain New Zealand experience while working from your home country.
- Freelance Platforms: Websites like Upwork or Fiverr often feature digital marketing projects from New Zealand clients. This can be a good way to build a portfolio and gain experience working with New Zealand-based companies.
- Remote Job Boards: Use platforms like We Work Remotely or Remote OK to find digital marketing roles that are open to candidates from anywhere in the world.
6. Prepare for Interviews
If you secure an interview, preparation is key, especially when applying from offshore. Be ready to discuss your experience, how you can contribute to the company, and how you plan to manage working remotely if applicable.
- Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with the company’s history, culture, and recent projects. Understanding the company’s mission and values will help you tailor your responses.
- Time Zone Consideration: Be mindful of the time difference between New Zealand and your current location. Suggest convenient times for the interview and demonstrate your willingness to work within their time zone.
- Technical Setup: Ensure you have a reliable internet connection, a quiet environment, and the necessary software for video interviews.
7. Stay Persistent and Positive
Finding a job in New Zealand from offshore can be challenging, but persistence is key. Keep applying, networking, and refining your approach.
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated on the latest digital marketing trends and tools. Consider taking online courses or certifications to enhance your skills.
- Follow Up: After submitting applications or completing interviews, follow up with a thank-you email. This shows your enthusiasm and keeps you top of mind with potential employers.
8. Understanding Visa Requirements for Working in New Zealand
If you’re considering moving to New Zealand to work in digital marketing, understanding the visa requirements is crucial. New Zealand offers several visa options for skilled workers, and selecting the right one can significantly impact your ability to live and work in the country. Here’s a detailed overview of the most relevant visas for digital marketing professionals and essential links to help you through the process.
1. Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa is one of the most popular options for professionals looking to move to New Zealand. This visa is designed for skilled workers who wish to gain residency in New Zealand based on their qualifications, work experience, and job offer in a skilled occupation.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- You must be under 56 years of age.
- You need to meet health, character, and English language requirements.
- You must have a job offer in New Zealand that falls under the skilled occupation list.
- You should score at least 160 points on the Immigration New Zealand points system, which takes into account factors like age, work experience, qualifications, and whether you have a job offer in New Zealand.
- Application Process:
- Expression of Interest (EOI): The first step is to submit an EOI, detailing your skills, work experience, and qualifications. If you meet the required points threshold, you may be invited to apply for residency.
- Residence Application: After receiving an invitation, you can apply for residency, providing all necessary documentation, including proof of job offer, qualifications, and health and character certificates.
- Useful Links:
2. Essential Skills Work Visa
The Essential Skills Work Visa is ideal for professionals who have a job offer from a New Zealand employer but do not yet qualify for residency. This visa allows you to work in New Zealand temporarily and can be a stepping stone to permanent residency.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- You must have a full-time job offer in a role listed on the Essential Skills in Demand List (ESID), which includes various marketing and IT roles.
- The employer must have demonstrated that they could not find a suitable New Zealand citizen or resident for the role.
- Application Process:
- You’ll need to submit a visa application, including proof of your job offer, qualifications, and work experience.
- You must also meet health and character requirements.
- Useful Links:
3. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The Accredited Employer Work Visa is a new visa introduced by Immigration New Zealand. It allows employers to hire skilled foreign workers if they cannot find a suitable candidate locally. This visa is particularly relevant for digital marketing professionals, as the demand for skilled workers in this field is high.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- You must have a job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand.
- Your job offer must meet the median wage requirements or fall under a role that is exempt.
- You must meet health, character, and English language requirements.
- Application Process:
- Your employer needs to be accredited by Immigration New Zealand.
- After receiving a job offer, you can apply for the AEWV, providing necessary documentation such as proof of employment, qualifications, and other relevant certificates.
- Useful Links:
4. Work to Residence Visa
The Work to Residence Visa is another pathway that allows skilled workers to eventually obtain permanent residency. This visa is typically used by those who work in highly skilled occupations and intend to transition to residency after a few years.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- You must have a job offer from an accredited employer or in a role that is on the Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL).
- You must work for a minimum of 24 months under this visa before applying for residency.
- Application Process:
- You must first apply for a Work to Residence visa and, after meeting the requirements, can transition to a Residence from Work visa.
- You need to provide proof of employment, qualifications, and meet health and character standards.
- Useful Links:
5. Temporary Work Visas
For those looking to work in New Zealand for a short period, several temporary work visas might be suitable. These can serve as an excellent way to gain experience in New Zealand while exploring longer-term opportunities.
- Specific Purpose Work Visa: Ideal for professionals invited to New Zealand for a specific purpose or event, such as a short-term project or contract role in digital marketing.
- Working Holiday Visa: Available to young people from specific countries, this visa allows you to work in New Zealand temporarily while traveling. It can be an excellent way for digital marketers to gain international experience.
- Useful Links:
Final Tips
- Stay Updated: Immigration policies can change, so it’s essential to stay updated by regularly visiting the Immigration New Zealand website.
- Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting with an immigration advisor who can guide you through the process and ensure that you’re on the right track.
Finding a digital marketing job in New Zealand from offshore can be a rewarding endeavor, but understanding the visa requirements is crucial. By selecting the right visa and preparing a strong application, you can set yourself on the path to building a successful career in New Zealand.
Conclusion
Finding a digital marketing job in New Zealand from offshore is entirely possible with the right approach. By understanding the local job market, leveraging online platforms, networking effectively, and tailoring your application materials, you can increase your chances of landing your dream role. Stay persistent, keep learning, and soon you’ll be on your way to a rewarding career in New Zealand’s digital marketing industry.