ISI Student Ambassador, Cristian | Mexico

In what follows, I cover some things you’ll need to consider when trying to find a job in Dublin.

I have heard over the last few weeks that some people seem to be struggling to find a job when they first arrive in Ireland. Apparently, it was not always like this. Not only are these students struggling, but they are also encountering a lot of expenses during their first weeks in the country; since they have to deal with the exorbitant cost of rent here in Ireland, a deposit, a visa, etc. However, in knowing how to overcome these obstacles, job seeking will lead you to financial stability and will bring mental peace to your new Irish life.

After talking to different people throughout the time I have been living in Dublin, I have taken stock of the most salient features that will help you stand out from the rest of the candidates. First of all, attitude: Attitude is what will principally tip the balance in your favour when compared to other prospective candidates for a job. Talking to a recruiter while I was working at the barbershop in which I’m currently employed, he stressed the following: Rarely has he preferred to hire an advanced English speaker with a brash attitude over an intermediate English language level candidate with a brilliant attitude of service.

Secondly, looking at the previous point, knowing how to speak English well is not the most important requirement when looking for a job in Ireland. That said, of course it has a lot of weight when trying to be hired! While this weight may vary depending on the type of job you are looking for, it will always have particular importance in an English-speaking country. Thus, my recommendation is that as soon as you arrive in Ireland, try and get over your fear of speaking English, and through various social activities—made easy with ISI Dublin’s Social Programme—start getting immersed in this beautiful language.

Last but not least, you will have to learn to be resilient and patient, since some places or companies can take up to a month to get back in touch with you: So, you must keep up the hunt for an opportunity by (principally) dropping into places, handing out CVs, and sending applications as if there was no tomorrow!

Bonus: Remember to stay positive and enjoy this language learning journey, because I am sure you will realize that, at the end of the day, somehow, everything works out.