China : Applying for jobs

How do I apply for a job?

A key method of finding work is networking, or Guanxi. Many jobs are never advertised but filled via personal referrals from friends or family. Résumés are used and also covering letters. For Chinese and government-owned companies, a covering letter (with résumé) that is written by hand in Chinese characters can be useful, but this is only for those who can write Chinese characters well.

Recruitment agencies exist but tend to concentrate on experienced hires. Graduates with little or no work experience are unlikely to find agencies an effective means of finding work.
 
It is possible to apply for jobs from outside China. However, the importance of networking and referral when job hunting suggests that it is advantageous to be based within the country.

What kind of CV do I need?

Unless an English version is requested, produce a Chinese CV. Include a summary or career objective at the beginning of the CV. Check where your university is listed in the Times Higher Education University Rankings . If the ranking is high, include this information in your CV. Highlight any achievements, both academic and personal.

As well as personal details, include information about your academic background (school name and address, university name and address, courses followed, degrees obtained and dates of attendance). List any relevant work experience, including details of the employer, dates attended, the role you had and your daily activities. Also add your career objectives and your IT and language skills. The CV should be typed on A4 paper and is usually no more than two pages long.

What will the interview process be like?

At both the application and interview stages, respect, modesty and politeness are important qualities to demonstrate. Punctuality is vital. Preparation and a thorough understanding of the organisation will enable you to demonstrate respect for the organisation. Give examples of your skills and achievements on applications and, at interview, balance modesty and humility with a demonstration of your qualities.

The interviewing process can be long and may involve a number of interviews before you meet the person who has the authority to make a decision.

Will my UK qualifications be recognised?

University rankings are very important to many Chinese employers. Some will use the Times and Shanghai Jiao Tong University world rankings. China uses the three tier higher education model, which consists of Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate degrees.

Do I still need to pay UK tax and National Insurance?

If you are planning to live and work in China, check your UK tax and National Insurance position with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)  to ensure that you are not losing any UK pension rights.