NEW ZEALAND – OPPORTUNITY AND EXCELLENT LIFESTYLE

ABIGAIL'S AUSTRALASIA  TOUR - MARCH 2013

COUNTRY 1 – NEW ZEALAND – OPPORTUNITY AND EXCELLENT LIFESTYLE

Awesome New Zealand!   Thanks to typical Kiwi hospitality, my journey started in the modern harbor  City of Auckland.  Within an hour of landing I was boarding a boat to go across to Rangitoto Island  – an extinct volcano with a fantastic view of Auckland.  The boat journey itself was great, with a panoramic view of the city, in the sun.  However, running up then down the volcano was a lovely way to stretch the legs after a long flight.  After which we had a BBQ on the boat, before heading back into Auckland. 

                   View from Boat back at Auckland

The next day I was in a string of meetings with potential employers of accountants.   There are a number of varied really interesting opportunities across New Zealand.   The thing that stood out the most when speaking with employers was that they are very enthusiastic about how the companies they work for look after them.  Companies appear to concentrate on a work life balance, through to providing fruit for staff and a large number of social events.

Another consistent theme seems to be that all the businesses are based in lovely, modern buildings, with good views of the lovely city and its harbor.  I could imagine myself having lunch breaks on the harbour before returned for an afternoon’s work, leaving at a reasonable hour and then off to the gym.

I then headed down to Wellington.  The capital city, also with a lovely waterfront.  Home to the government, most work opportunities there will be either working for the government or providing a service to it.  

However, instead of being a ‘stuffy’ capital, the city has an air of cosmopolitan about it.  Excellent restaurants from Waterfront Sea food and wine bars to trendy funky Mexican to American breakfast diners. 

Wellington is a very hilly city.  It reminds me of Cape Town for the mountains that surround it and of Chicago because it is such a windy city.  However, you don’t have to run up the hills, as I did, you can even take a tram to the top to get the view’s.  

From Wellington I took a ferry across to Picton on the South Island .  Now I am sure you are getting the theme, but yes, I did take place in a run around Picton.  What better way to see all these great places.  Picton has the feel of a small sleepy town.  It is pretty and a great gateway to the wonders of this fun filled beautiful island.

   View from Ferry between North and South Island

The rest of my trip consisted of visiting more remote old fashioned hotels, to walking through forests to the lovely pretty town of Nelson, with its stunning long beaches.  Previous trips have included flying in small planes over the stunning Lord of the Rings type scenery, river surfing down the rapids in Roturua, climbing a volcano near Lake Tapo and watching crazy people bungy jumping against the most scenic backdrops.   There is so much to see and do in this beautiful country, I could go on forever!  

Why wouldn't you want to live and work there?

'Working 9 – 5 what a way to make a living' - The change in working patterns

Well, that was the famous song in the late 70’s, when women were working to have it all and were desperately trying to compete in the board room while juggling family life and yes, most people clocked in at 9am and left at 5pm. How things have changed...

Dolly Parton recently brought her musical stage show of the movie to the Edinburgh Playhouse and, having had the good fortune to go along, this feel good show certainly gave me some food for thought. Set in the late 1970’s, there were no computers - just typewriters: no i-phones, iPads or Blackberries - just desk bound devices with curly cables. Our working lives have changed so much since then and although we have far more technology to help make us more productive and efficient, there is still the day to day juggle of professional vs family life that has to be taken into consideration for both men and women. We have relaxed work patterns over the years so there is now no longer a "9 to 5" mentality in most work places. However that brings it’s own pressure in now having the facility to work 24/7 if we so require - another challenge.

Having gone through one of the worst recessions we have ever known, it has made employers and employees reevaluate their life/work balance and there have been some interesting evolutions, particularly over the last 4 years. Employers are more aware that their survival and growth works hand in hand with how happy their employees feel at work as this will also result in increased commitment and aid staff retention.

As such they have been far more responsive to part-time workers as it has been a good resource to save on cash flow while still enabling the job to get done. For a number of roles, working from home has also promised some great advantages, however if this is not done correctly it can be disruptive for all involved.

We have seen a massive surge in the number of people working on a self employed basis doing consultancy work, this creates opportunities that can be mutually beneficial but isn’t always as straight forward as it would seem.

Working on a consultancy basis may seem attractive but you have to take into consideration the back office challenges that working for a larger organisation you may very rarely notice. Admin, IT, Accounts and Suppliers all need to be dealt with no matter how much work you are bringing in and they are the thing’s that usually eat away extra hours or money if you choose to outsource. Most people who give up a job to become a self-employed consultant do so as they want a more flexible working arrangement and to earn more money. However statistics show that in the first 3 years of a business start-up, most people work longer hours than they have ever worked and for less money.

All the flexibility that employers now show, and that we look for in a job, comes down to one key question …. "Are we happy in our work?" Data gathered since 2006 shows that people everywhere feel less confident, motivated, loyal, resilient, committed and engaged. Research, involving 9,000 people from around the world, reveals some astonishing findings. Employees who report being happiest at work:

• Stay twice as long in their jobs as their least happy colleagues
• Spend double their time at work focused on what they are paid to do
• Take ten times less sick leave
• Believe they are achieving their potential twice as much

If you’re really happy at work, you’ll solve problems faster, be more creative, adapt fastest to change, receive better feedback, get promoted quicker and earn more over the long-term.

So in 2013 we will see yet more changes in the workplace, fortunately there should be more opportunities whether that is promotional, working patterns or new jobs coming to the market place as companies put their growth strategies back in place. So to quote another old time favourite song, "Come on along get happy"…..Is this your time for New Year, New Job?

Pauline Dickson is Managing Director of Dickson Lewis, a specialist Accountancy Recruitment Company (www.dicksonlewis.com) and Training and Development consultant for Think Global Recruitment (www.thinkgr.com). Pauline is also the Director for Scotland of the Institute of Recruitment Professionals (IRP). Dickson Lewis is based at Wemyss House, 45 Frederick Street, Edinburgh Tel: 0131 225 2000
e-mail:pauline@dicksonlewis.com and Think Global Recruitment is based at 93 George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 3ES Tel: +44 131 260 5850 email pdickson@thinkgr.com.

This article was featured in Families Edinburgh magazine. The full magazine can be viewed at www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/Edinburgh

Relocating Tips for your Move Overseas

Moving abroad is a great way to travel, develop new friendships, experience diverse cultures and broaden you horizons. Fortunately, you can also develop your career at the same time. When considering a career move overseas, it is wise to extensively research before you go.

Doing your homework on moving abroad is definitely worthwhile, for both professional and social reasons. There is a huge amount of information available, including an array of fantastic books and websites.

Securing a job offer before you leave makes life a lot easier, especially as most companies offer attractive relocation and expatriate packages. I have been assisting qualified accountants to find positions overseas for almost 18 years. In my experience, most employers will sort out your visa and offer you some kind of relocation package. This could include paying for flights, providing a shipping allowance or arranging up to four weeks’ paid accommodation. Some companies even allow you to furnish your apartment on expenses. In locations such as Dubai and UAE there is often assistance with housing subsidies, plus schooling allowances, car allowances and other benefits.

However, it is also important to be aware that more people are interested in overseas positions and more local applicants are being presented with strong backgrounds for roles. Therefore, employers are offering less incentives to make people move and focusing on packages that afford a good standard of living as opposed to great savings.

It is always worth initiating your own research which covers the cost of living; availability of accommodation; safest suburbs; currency exchange rates; average temperatures throughout the year; local transport services; local issues (e.g. environmental, political, religious); media outlets; major events; popular pubs, clubs, restaurants, cafes and shopping spots; nearby tourist destinations…the list is endless! A good recruitment consultancy will give you advice and information on all of these subjects.

Other options are to speak to expats and locals, read a Lonely Planet guide and go online. At Think Global Recruitment, we often put people in touch with other accountants that we have placed in the area, so that they can answer any queries or concerns. Many expats write about their overseas experiences in weblogs, which can be a valuable source of first hand, honest information, for example www.limeyinbermuda.com

Once you have carried out your personal research, it makes our job all the more rewarding as we can ensure that we find you opportunities somewhere you are enthusiastic about moving to and that will suit your circumstances and personality. We then help you every step of the way to ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible.

When moving to work abroad, we advise people to avoid leaving debt in their home country. We recommend this for an array of reasons, including high interest charges and fluctuating currency exchange rates. You should undoubtedly save money for setting up overseas as relocating can be expensive and there are often unexpected costs, such as furnishing an apartment, bond deposits, first month’s rent, buying a car/moped/bike and many more.

You will need to investigate the logistics of setting up a bank account. Often this can be done from home, although some countries require you to be there in person. It’s always worth checking in advance on what identification documents will be required. On the subject of finance, in some countries you will require to have a local tax number which should be set up as soon as possible to avoid complications with your first pay packet.

Try to understand basic cultural differences. We know many expats who have failed to research and understand cultural differences, resulting in quite embarrassing outcomes.

Apart from obvious barriers such as language, you need to be aware of the idiosyncrasies of different cultures. Cultural differences can sometimes be incredibly subtle, such as introductions and greetings, gift giving, body language, appropriate dress, voice inflection and even social space.

Think Global Recruitment always advises people to thoroughly research these cultural differences before moving overseas or attending an international job interview, because it can greatly influence their chances of actually securing the job.

When moving abroad, a lack of knowledge about a country’s culture can lead to misunderstanding, frustration and potential embarrassment. Failing to understand cultural differences can sometimes damage both personal and professional relationships.

For example, it is essential to observe local etiquette, such as giving business cards with two hands in China; shaking hands using your left hand in the Middle East and taking care to avoid showing the sole of your shoe or foot in Thailand.

An example of a significant cultural clash occurred in Costa Rica, when a British accountant was invited to his prospective boss’s house. The accountant was told he should take a gift, such as flowers, wine or chocolates. He decided on a beautiful bunch of fresh lilies. Unfortunately, he didn’t realise that Costa Ricans associate lilies with funerals. Needless to say, the meeting started and ended badly.

Offshore financial services hubs such as Bermuda, Caribbean, Channel Islands, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland and Gibraltar are particularly active in offering large numbers of vacancies. However, a qualified accountant should also find an abundance of opportunities in the Middle East, Far East and Africa.

There is also a number of large international companies based in the USA trying to recruit staff from overseas; although a limit on the number of visas available can sometimes restrict the number of people they are able to offer positions to.

Some locations do not always require language skills, including Germany, France, Russia and Eastern Europe, as work is carried out in English, although a keen interest to learn is useful and can also help to enhance your social life. Locations such as China, Mexico and Spain generally still require language skills, although there are now some companies in these locations that will offer language training.

Lastly, we advise you to leave a copy of important documents, such as your passport, travel insurance and visa, with a trusted family member or friend, just in case.

Also, make sure you share your amazing new experience with your family and friends back home. Our research has found that if anyone finds something difficult about living abroad, it is missing friends and family. Involving them in your experience will not only make the transition easier, but is also important for readjusting when you return home. Luckily, you will find a constant stream of visitors is likely!

Maintain a positive, adventurous attitude. You will face numerous challenges, but this is all part of the experience. Always remember the reasons you moved abroad in the first place – it is an unforgettable, once in a lifetime opportunity!

If you would like further information or advice on relocating or are interested in pursuing a career in accountancy overseas then please contact Think Global Recruitment on +44 (0) 260 5850 or visit www.thinkgr.com.

by Abigail Stevens, Managing Director, Think Global Recruitment

Things are looking up - Accountancy Worldwide Recruitment Forum is Back!

Think Global Recruitment have hosted Accountancy Worldwide International Recruitment Forum since its launch in 2004. The forum is designed to bring together accountants that are seeking international career progression and companies that require to enhance their team by recruiting internationally.


We are re-launching the forum that will be held in London in April 2013, after 4 years away, due to the global economic downturn. Being an international recruitment company specialising in the accountancy and finance sector we have seen an increase in recruitment needs from our clients and we received requests last year for the event to be brought back.


Accountancy Worldwide is a great platform that gives accountants the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals that are also looking to secure international work. In the past we have had accountants meeting at the conference and then moving together with the same company, making the daunting prospect of moving overseas less so.


We are hosting the event in London due to the high demand globally for CA, ACA, ACCA and CPA qualified accountants. London is regarded as the one of the World's financial powerhouses and we have been given exclusive access to host the event at the Chartered Accountants' Hall. Hosting the event in the financial district of London ensures it is easily accessible for accountants already living in London but also for people that are traveling from further afield with every type of public transport available straight to the door.


The event has been held in London, Sydney, Johannesburg and Dublin previously and we have helped many accountants with securing their dream jobs. Think Global Recruitment's vision is "To improve the lives of everyone we work with" and by running this forum we feel we are making the international recruitment process far easier for both accountants and the companies we work with aiding their recruitment needs. This type of forum streamlines the recruitment process and minimises telephone/Skype interviews, giving a unique opportunity to bring these two parties together.

Visit www.accountancyworldwide.com for further information and testimonials.

OPEN FOR ADVICE - ASK ABIGAIL

It's the New Year and for many of you that means making resolutions of changes you wish to make in your life, whether it is starting the gym or changing jobs.

In my career I am proud to say that I have helped improve people's lives from every Continent in the World and understand the obstacles that are in the way of progressing your career Internationally. I have updated my blog to provide an 'Ask Abigail' section to allow anyone that has questions to ask. Just click on the tab or here to find the list of topics that I am happy to provide comment and advice on.

Above is a cut-out of a feature in the December issue of the CA magazine where I was asked to provide comment for accountants who are considering 'Finding work in Canada'. I was approached by ICAS to supply comment on the topic because of the experience I have in not only the Accountancy recruitment sector but also in regards to moving overseas and relocation. I take pride in providing honest and free advice and have in the past discussed provided comment in multiple international accountancy journals.

WE ARE NOT PREPARING OUR FUTURE STARS

Abigail Stevens, Managing Director of Think Global Recruitment writes...

A recent survey has shown that 45% of potential graduate applicants are being rejected for mistakes on applications, lack of interview preparation or technique. 47% are being rejected for a lack of relevant experience.

School leavers and graduates are not preparing themselves well enough for the business world.  They are underestimating work experience and a large proportion of first job applications being submitted for vacancies are being rejected for very simple and avoidable reasons.

Covering notes are essential when applying for jobs, consider it the introduction to the Company and role you are applying for. It is not good enough to just blindly send a CV to someone and expect a response. Use the covering letter to entice the recipient to read your CV. Fiona Godsman, the CEO of the Scottish Institute for Enterprise says “We get a lot of applications for our positions. If there is no properly tailored application letter, then they rarely get interviewed. Even worse, they haven’t changed the letter, so it says “I really want to work for xxxx”, with xxxx being another organisation!”

Emma Marriott , Director at Contract Scotland Ltd   Agreed with Fiona stating ‘Whilst we are trying not to be overly picky about spelling/grammar, if our adverts demand a cover letter and nothing comes through it shows another churned out application, inability to digest information or even take instruction!’

I personally have reviewed and provided advice to enhance literally thousands of CVs in the 18 years I have been involved in recruitment and am amazed that applications have got worse, not better in recent years.  In an age when everyone uses a computer to create an application, there is no excuse for spelling mistakes.   

For those that successfully pass through the CV screening process, candidates are failing badly at the interview stage. Lack of preparation for interviews is very easy for any experienced recruiter to notice. This can demonstrate the individual is not really that keen on the opportunity, that they may cut corners in the work place, or have a lack of attention to details.  One of the most bizarre questions I have been asked in an interview situation was when the candidate was asked if they had any questions, the response was ‘Yes. Can you please tell me what your company does.’   It is important to ask questions to engage with your interviewer but ensure that the questions show enthusiasm for the job and not a severe lack of preparation.

We have our future generation of the business world coming out of University with very desirable attributes but are letting themselves down in areas that are inexcusable.  Below are what may seem to be very obvious hints and tips, but are essential when it comes to applying for your dream job;

• Use all the resources that your University offers you, placements/work experience in your area of study is absolutely priceless and shows a desire to work in that particular field, whether this is done through your University or off your own back.
• Always, always, ALWAYS add a covering letter/email tailored to the exact job that you are applying for, not just a brief ‘Please find enclosed my CV’
• Use the cover note as a sales pitch, it’s your 10 second introduction to entice the recipient into opening the Email and seriously looking a your CV.
• Get someone else to read and re-read your application to ensure that every statement is required and makes sense.
• Phone the company you’ve applied for a few days after you send your email, it puts a personality to your CV and makes you stand out, but always be polite.
• Research the company as much as possible prior to the interview, the Internet is a tool that should be exploited, there is no excuse. Do your research as this shows how much you want the job.
• Competency questions are as common as ever, research these to practice some answers in the line of work that you are applying for. This is a very good habit to get into.

 Top Ten application mistakes

10. Interview Technique – Interviewer ‘Please describe a time when you resolved a conflict situation and talked someone else around to your way of thinking.’ Interviewee: ‘At a night club last weekend, I had to talk a really aggressive guy around from hitting my mate’.

9. Application Mistakes – Application sales role.  Covering email said ‘CV attached’, they couldn’t even sell themselves.

8. Application Mistakes - Spelling mistakes on application covering email for PA role.

7. Interview Technique - Getting the interviewers name wrong at the start of the interview and continued to do so, but with different names each time.

6. Lack of Interview Preparation  - Applicant had final interview with the Managing Director. When discussing possible career progression, an organisation chart was produced. The applicant asked ‘so where do you fit on this chart?’

5. Interview Technique - Applicant asked why they wanted to work for the organisation they applied to. The reply was ‘because the agency told them to’.

4. Interview Technique - Interviewer asked applicant if they had any questions. Applicant ‘Firstly, what salary will you pay me? Secondly what hours do I have to work? I am looking for a life balance’. 

3. Lack of Interview Preparation  - Interviewee when asked if they had any questions about the job replied ‘yes can you tell me what your company does?’

2. Lack of Interview Preparation  - Financial Services professional thought he had the job in the bag. He was almost right. Being a specialist with highly sort after skills, moving from one major international firm in London to another. He turned up to his final interview late, with a black eye. No apology, but when asked said ‘I was out with a few of your staff last night and we got drunk, I fell over’. He really thought the name dropping regarding socialising with other members of their team would clinch the deal! The interview was keen to fill the position, but not desperate.

1.  Application Mistakes/Lies - An applicant had already applied to same company 2 years previously, but the process hadn’t moved to offer because they went elsewhere. The company was delighted to see they were applying again, until the original interview notes were pulled out. The dates on her previous CV and new one did not match. Whole jobs had been left out. Yes the new CV was more impressive; however it was a pack of lies.

Think International Knowledge Busters

Think Global Recruitment thought it would test its international general knowledge last night and enter a team into a popular local pub quizz. 

It is not about the winning, but winning certainly feels good.  So winning we went for and winners we were! 

It was not a 'walk on the park' though.  There were certainly some excellent teams amongst the 10 that participated.  

The most fun part and probably the thing that got us to the winning point, was working as a team.  Everyone had something to offer to gain us those much needed additional points.

Well done 'Think' quizz team!  A great fun and interesting night out.