Why ‘NZ Work Experience’ Matters: A Must-Know for International Students Applying For Jobs

January 30, 2025

A lot of times when international students apply for jobs in New Zealand employers tell them that they prefer applicants with a “NZ work experience”. Several reasons make ‘NZ work experience’ a major factor in increasing their employability.  It encompasses familiarity with New Zealand’s workplace culture, communication styles, and business norms. Employers prioritise this type of experience because it reassures them that a candidate can fit into local teams, handle customer expectations effectively, and align with workplace practices unique to New Zealand.

Why Is It Important to Employers?

1. Cultural Alignment:
   Every country has its unique work culture, and New Zealand is no different. Employers value local experience because it demonstrates that candidates understand how businesses operate in New Zealand. For example, the flat hierarchy in many New Zealand workplaces allows employees to interact freely with people in different positions However, in other countries, hierarchical structures might be different.
2. Communication Skills:
   Local work experience demonstrates that candidates are proficient in communicating effectively within a Kiwi context. This includes understanding colloquial language, responding to understated communication styles, and navigating formal and informal interactions.
3. Confidence in Integration:
   Employers want to feel assured that the new employees can integrate smoothly into their teams and take on job responsibilities without requiring significant time to adapt. NZ work experience gives employers the confidence to hire immigrant worker.
4. Customer Familiarity:
   For roles that involve client or customer service, it’s critical to know how to interact with New Zealand’s customer base. Local experience provides practical exposure to these expectations and teaches subtle nuances like appropriate tone, respect for diversity, and Kiwi-specific customer service standards.

What About Students with Work Experience Abroad?

For international students, already having a wealth of experience in their home country is valuable—it reflects transferable skills such as expertise in their field, problem-solving abilities, and leadership qualities. However, without New Zealand experience, some challenges may arise:

• Perceived Knowledge Gap: Employers might question whether foreign experience fully translates to the New Zealand context.
• Unawareness of Local Work Norms: Despite having global expertise, the lack of insight into NZ-specific practices may make some employers hesitate.

How Can Students Bridge the Gap?

1. Leverage Existing Skills:
   International students should highlight how their previous work experience relates to New Zealand’s job market. Include universal skills like teamwork, project management, soft skills, and technical expertise.
2. Gain Volunteer or Part-Time Experience:
   Volunteering, internships, or part-time jobs are excellent avenues to gain exposure to New Zealand’s workplace culture. Even small local experiences can reassure employers of a candidate’s adaptability.
3. Network with Local Professionals:
   Building professional connections in New Zealand via events, LinkedIn, or alumni networks can help international students understand the nuances of the market and potentially access opportunities for gaining local experience.
4. Pursue Industry-Specific Training:
   Enrolling in workshops or certification programs relevant to New Zealand industries can reflect a willingness to learn and adapt to local standards.
5. Speak the Language of Adaptability:
   During interviews or on CVs, students should share examples of how they adapted to different cultures or work norms in the past. Employers value flexibility and the ability to fit into diverse settings.

Final Thoughts

While New Zealand employers value local work experience for its cultural and practical advantages, this does not diminish the importance of international experience. By bridging the gap through practical strategies like networking, pursuing local opportunities, and aligning foreign skills with Kiwi workplace demands international students can overcome this challenge. Employers ultimately seek talent that can contribute meaningfully to their teams, and by demonstrating adaptability, learning, and cross-cultural aptitude, international students can position themselves as indispensable assets in the New Zealand workforce.