London | Work | Coolvoyage Destinations

Have you decided, do you want to go to live in England, have you chosen the city of London and are you worried about work? Don't worry, looking for work in London is certainly not a walk in the park, but neither is it impossible. With the right information and tools, going to work in London will seem like a whole other thing!

Understand Work Permit Requirements

Work Visa: Before you can apply for jobs, ensure you have the correct visa. Most non-UK citizens will need a work visa to take up employment in the UK. The most common work visa is the Skilled Worker Visa, which requires a job offer from a UK-based employer with a license to sponsor foreign workers.

Graduate Visa: If you’ve recently graduated from a UK university, you may be eligible for a Graduate Visa, which allows you to stay and work in the UK for up to two years (three years for doctoral graduates).

Youth Mobility Scheme: For citizens from select countries aged 18-30, this visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to two years.

Start with a Clear CV and Cover Letter

Tailor Your CV: In the UK, a concise CV (typically two pages) with a focus on your relevant experience is standard. Clearly outline your skills, achievements, and previous roles. Highlight any language skills if you’re multilingual.

Cover Letter: Many employers expect a cover letter alongside your CV. Customise each letter for the job, showing your understanding of the company and explaining why you’re a great fit for the role.

Use Professional Networking Platforms

LinkedIn: LinkedIn is crucial in the UK for job seekers. Ensure your profile is up-to-date, with a professional photo, and use it to connect with recruiters and other professionals in your industry.

Networking Events: Attend industry-related networking events, both in-person and virtual. Many companies in the UK value candidates who come recommended or have been introduced by mutual connections.

Register with Recruitment Agencies

Recruitment agencies play a significant role in the UK job market. Some agencies specialise in specific fields (e.g., finance, tech, healthcare), so find ones relevant to your skills. They can help match you with employers, provide interview tips, and support you through the application process.

Popular Recruitment Platforms: Besides agencies, explore platforms like Reed, Indeed, Totaljobs, and Glassdoor, which list thousands of UK job vacancies.

Prepare for Interviews with UK Employers

Interview Style: In the UK, interviews tend to be formal and focused on assessing both your skills and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences and achievements in a structured way (e.g., using the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result).

Know the Company: Research the company’s values, products, and recent news. This demonstrates your interest and gives you a better chance of standing out in the interview.

Understand Workplace Culture

Professionalism: UK workplaces value punctuality, politeness, and a collaborative spirit. It’s also common to maintain a formal tone, especially in the early stages of a job or with senior colleagues.

Work-Life Balance: Many UK companies respect work-life balance, so understanding and respecting this cultural norm will help you fit in better.

Be Patient and Persistent

Job hunting in the UK can take time, especially in competitive industries. Don’t be discouraged by initial rejections; continue refining your CV, expanding your network, and applying for roles that align with your skills and experience.

Consider Temporary or Contract Work

Many professionals in the UK begin with temporary or contract roles, which can provide valuable UK work experience, build your network, and sometimes lead to permanent positions.

Explore Volunteering or Internships

If you’re new to the UK job market, volunteering or internships can be an excellent way to gain experience, build connections, and improve your CV. Many organisations in London and across the UK offer volunteer roles in various sec

Stay Updated on Industry Trends

Skills Demand: Regularly check industry reports or attend webinars to stay informed about in-demand skills in your sector. Consider certifications or courses to enhance your qualifications.

Regulatory Changes: Keep an eye on changes to immigration and employment laws, especially if you’re on a visa, as UK policies can impact your work eligibility or visa renewal process.

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EU Settlement Scheme: Brief Guide

The EU Settlement Scheme is for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens who were living in the UK by 31 December 2020, allowing them to continue living, working, and studying in the UK.

1. Who Needs to Apply?

EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens and their family members who were resident in the UK before the end of 2020.

Irish citizens do not need to apply but can if they want to.

2. Application Deadlines

The main deadline was 30 June 2021, but there are exceptions. Late applications may be accepted if you have “reasonable grounds” for missing the deadline.

3. Types of Status Granted

Settled Status: For those who have lived in the UK for 5 continuous years.

Pre-settled Status: For those with less than 5 years of continuous residence. You can apply for settled status after reaching 5 years.

4. How to Apply

The application is free and can be completed online.

You’ll need proof of identity (passport or national ID card) and residence in the UK. Most applications require a photo and a check of your UK residence status.

5. Checking Status

Once granted, your status is digital. You can access it online and use it to prove your right to work, study, or access healthcare in the UK.