How do I apply for a job?The recruitment patterns of Irish graduate employers are very similar to those of their UK counterparts. Many employers concentrate their recruitment activities on campus visits between October and March. As in the UK some choose to recruit at certain times of the year, whilst others advertise as vacancies arise. You don’t need to be in the country to apply for jobs or secure a job before you go. However, do bear in mind any visa/work permit and residency requirements which may apply to you. There are two main methods of applying for jobs in Ireland: CV and covering letter or through an employer application form. back to top What kind of CV do I need?A good CV will be tailored to the job and will include all the key points, as outlined in CVs and covering letters . Further guidance can be obtained from gradireland and CV Ireland. Your CV should be two pages long and should summarise the key points of your education and career history to date. When sending a CV to an Irish employer, you should always attach a covering letter, highlighting the main points on your CV and emphasising your interest in the job and in the company. back to top What will the interview process be like?Most selection procedures for new graduates will involve two interviews. The first screening interview is normally about 30 minutes long and is often held on campus. If successful, you will be called for a second interview. This will normally be held at the company’s offices. This is a more intensive interview and can be quite lengthy. Some Irish employers use psychometric testing either in the preliminary stage or during the final assessment. Have a look at and psychometric tests and Psytech for further information. For more detailed advice on applications and interviews visit gradireland. Some university careers services also have useful hints and tips, e.g. University College Cork Careers Service. back to top Will my qualifications be recognised?If you wish to compare your professional, vocational or technical qualifications with Irish qualifications, you can consult the ENIC-NARIC website. The UK National Europass Centre (UK NEC) website allows you to catalogue your skills and qualifications in a format easily understood throughout Europe. In order to gain employment or undertake further studies in Ireland, your foreign qualifications can be assessed in Ireland by Qualifications Recognition Ireland. back to top Do I still need to pay UK tax and National Insurance?In Ireland, you will need to obtain a personal public service (PPS) number, available online at Revenue - Irish Tax and Customs. You will be taxed under the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system. If you are planning to live and work in Ireland, check your UK tax and National Insurance position with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to ensure that you are not losing any UK pension rights. back to top What are the next steps?
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Ireland: Applying for jobs
