Job search in Austria requires more than just the obvious Austria CV writing and translation. You need to pass the Austria job interview and face issues that probably did not even cross your mind when you decided to go for jobs in Austria.
Do not underestimate the big impact they can have on the result of your adventure! For example, you will experience the different immigration rules and practices, job application procedures, selection trends and the management culture.
Most visits to Austria are trouble-free but you should be aware of the risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers like restaurants, hotels, clubs and shopping areas.
You should exercise a high level of security awareness and monitor local news broadcasts and consular messages. Making local contacts quickly and seeking support from other expatriates will greatly increase your comfort and safety.
Prepare yourself for the Austria job interview – find out information about the company you want to work for. Practice your few-sentences “speech” about who you are and what you do. Do not whine. Do not talk about being jobless. Do not dump on your former employer. Be positive.
Displaying knowledge of Austrian history and culture demonstrates an awareness of the uniqueness of Austria – Austrians will appreciate this. Do not refer to Austrians or their culture as German.
Remember, these same keywords you used in your CV will be the foundation for your job interviews. Not only do you need to be able to write about your keywords, but also during an interview, you must be able to communicate about them as well, in strong and powerful statements that highlight your successes, contributions and achievements.
Business cards, letters of reference and photocopies of academic certificates at initial interviews are customary. An extra CV can be handy too. You will never get a second chance to make a first impression at an Austria job interview! Smile lightly and show your friendly face.
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Expect two to three job interviews and some tests in the German language. Therefore, if you do not feel comfortable with your language abilities practice beforehand.
Punctuality is essential. Make business appointments in advance. Arrive at least 10 minutes before a job interview. Turn off your cellphone.
Be prepared – before an interview, find out information about the company you want to work for. Practice your few-sentence “speech” about who you are and what you do. Do not whine. Do not talk about being jobless. Do not criticize former employers. Be positive.
Typically, an interview will begin with a handshake with introductions of everyone in the group, including the secretary and then with some brief, preliminary “small talk”. So, you should be prepared to discuss your journey, your hotel, what you did the previous evening etc. and to ask equivalent questions in return.
Austria is a country of titles. Business titles are so important that the use of an incorrect title may mean the end of a job interview in some of the more traditional firms. You should know the academic degrees and professional titles of your interviewers, and use them upon introduction and in a later conversation. Newer companies are often less formal. So, address others with respect.
Demonstrate good appearance as well as good etiquette. Do not sit until invited. There is little small talk before getting down to business. Talk effectively demonstrating your knowledge of the industry and/or the company. Do not interrupt the interviewer and criticize former employers. Maintain eye contact while talking with someone. Ask for clarification if you do not understand the question.
Prepare for a job interview questions about yourself, your strong and weak points, and your mid-and long-term career aims. Answers to questions should be direct, precise, to the point and courteous. Avoid yes and no answers. Provide examples to illustrate your achievements.
Interviewers often ask about your past successes and mistakes on the job. It is a good idea to prepare a few career success stories and a couple that had less than favourable outcomes but were learning experiences.
You do not have to answer personal questions during the Austria job interview, but consider in advance how you are going to tackle them. If you feel uncomfortable with a question asked, simply smile and say, “In my country, that would be a strange question.”
Ask questions about the job, the lines of authority and your future responsibilities, but avoid raising the issue of salary or benefits early in the process. Do not forget to ask, “When can I expect to hear from you?” (if that has not been discussed).
Give some thought in advance to what would you like to earn (never mention an exact amount) and be able to negotiate an offer at a later stage of the job interview.
During the Austria job interview, do not volunteer information that the interviewer does not ask for
At the end of your Austria job interview and before leaving, thank everyone present for an interview and shake they hands.
After the interview, do not forget to write a thank you letter and subsequent follow-up by letter, email or phone call. Employers regard this as an indication of your strong/final interest in the position.
Assessment Centres are becoming more common in Austria, but they are not as well established as for instance in the UK.
