7 Tips for Getting a Job in the Gulf

Getting a job in one of the Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC) member Countries, is not an easy process due to the increase of available talent in the region, the specialized experience required by employers, the formal / informal quotas on nationalities, the location of the candidate and employer, employer visa regulations, salary budgets sometimes linked to human capital markets, and other variables. The following tips will help you get the job you want in the GCC.

1. Have a strategy and solid plan. Someone once said, “finding a job is a full-time job”, only you can get the job you want, don’t depend on others to get it for you. Develop a strategy, plan and execute it every day and make it count! Read about the latest tips, invest in yourself and if you need additional support, get it!
   
   
2. Make sure your CV is up to mark. Review the content of your CV, present the most updated and relevant information, and remove outdated accomplishments that are no longer relevant. You are not writing a book, make the CV short, no more than 2 pages, and don’t cram information since it will make it difficult to read. Remove graphics such as logos which distract from the content. Don’t use bright colours or patterns. For GCC employers, include information such as your nationality, age, marital status, availability, reason for leaving employers, and introduce your employers.
   
   
3. Stand out from the crowd. Sending your CV by email and asking to be contacted is not the most effective way to get a job. You need to network, you need to research the companies that are hiring, contact them, and ensure they review your profiles. You must find a way to contact the hiring decision makers and provide a brief summary of your experience through a phone call, a video, or in writing by email. The message needs to be no longer than 60 seconds and should state why you are the best person for the vacancy as well as request a meeting.
   
   
4. Use your network and that of others you know. People are usually willing to help out a friend, a colleague, or an acquaintance so use the networks you have access to. To receive help, you must also give to others so share your knowledge, mentor others, help others reach a contact, and when you are in need, it will be easier to ask.
   
   
5. Visit the country. If you are not in the country, visiting the country you are targeting can be an effective way of increasing your network, meeting employers and confirming that you are interested in working in the new environment. It’s not a holiday though, so you need to have a solid plan and objectives to be accomplished during your stay.
   
   
6. Update your online profile, including your LinkedIn profile. Today, visuals and video presentations are easily accessible and can make a strong impact on employers and your network.
   
   
7. Engage your employment references early. This means reconnecting with them, informing them that you are seeking new employment, and getting their advice and support if possible in your job search. You don’t want to be contacting your references only when you need them.