Finding job for expats in China

Editor's note: In today's China, more and more people from overseas are wondering how can they get a job in the world's second-largest economy.

Last week, we invited job-hunting experts to tell you whether Mandarin and a university diploma are needed when applying for a job in the country. This issue we discuss some more detailed topics that may help you find a nice job in China.

Opportunities

There are no industries closed to foreign candidates. Hiring is booming in all industries and the latest edition of Antal Global Snapshot shows that 71 percent of companies in China are planning to recruit at professional and managerial level over the next three months.

Visa issues

Getting a work visa (entitling you to a one-year residence permit) is not an easy thing, although the number of foreigner working in China has already hit 600,000.

The recent implementation of the new Social Insurance Law for foreigners in China is likely to increase the cost of hiring foreign employees.

The best advice is to start job hunting way before your arrival. Try to get a maximum of interviews, or even have a first round of interviews over the Internet in your home country.

Business cards

Business cards will help you get to know the person's profession. Being given a business card is a very natural thing in China. Try to keep all the cards as they could potentially turn out to be useful.

Find a job in China

First of all, make sure you are linked and active in all social and professional networks: for example, joining the expat working groups on LinkedIn is a great way to connect with professionals, recruiters and have access to job offers and recruitment tips.

We recommend you visit China first in order to get an idea of the environment and make contacts. If you do not speak Chinese, it's not a bad idea to enroll in a six-month language course at a university or school.

Learning some Chinese beforehand will not only be helpful for your everyday life in the country but will also demonstrate your motivation and interest in Chinese culture - essential elements to adapting and succeeding in a country that remains very attached to its traditions and values.

(Contact gaoyuan@chinadaily.com.cn for questions and career advice.)

Advice given by Antal International China.