Working Holiday Programme - a few tips/help for a graduate?

[jdillawin]

Hi everyone,

I've been reading a lot on these boards lately and I hope this topic hasn't been over-discussed!

I'm a British guy who's just finished my degree and graduated in March 2010. Earlier this year, on my way to Burma, I stopped over in Singapore for 2 days and I loved it.

I've just applied for a Working Holiday Programme/Pass (WHP) and, if successful, will be looking to get into Singapore around Jan/Feb 2011.

I'm hoping to stay in Singapore for as long as possible (maybe with other work passes) but I think the WHP pass would be best option for me so that I can get a feel of the country before I commit to anything major!

Now, I've been looking for jobs but it seems most people have the same problem as me, they're only looking for Singaporeans/PRs (and they should get priority, it is their country!!!), and there's been a backlash against foreigners in Singapore but still I'm gonna try anyway, cause nothing ventured, nothing gained!

Hopefully there are some people on here that can give some advice that'll help me find a job or maybe suggest things I could do before I venture off.

Thanks a million guys!

Jules.

[jdillawin]

Oh, I forgot to mention, the WHP is valid for 6 months once you get it and there is no industry specific restriction or minimum salary limit.

[sundaymorningstaple]

As I noted in another thread recently, If you cannot find something in an industry of your choice, a lot of them end up down on the quays, Robertson, Boat & Clark working in the restaurants.

[aargon]

should be a wealth of jobs opportunities at your level - from the two casino`s, USJ, to all the restaurants and pubs making good business from the influx of expats here. good luck eitherway.

[jdillawin]

Thanks for the replies guys.

Should I apply for these positions by emailing them/phoning up their HR departments? Or can I just simply walk in, CV in tow, and ask if they have posiitons available?

Also, is it worth going through recruiters/agenicies? I've heard they charge alot of money but if I am really considering about making the change to Singapore I guess paying the fees is a small price to if it helps getting me a job!

[sundaymorningstaple]

Recruiters are not allowed to charge job seekers any money at all by law in Singapore aside from maybe a small administrative fee. Only sleazy recruiters charge an administrative fee. Steer clear of them.

[jdillawin]

Oooh, I see, looks like I got some misinformed information about recruiters.

sundaymorningstaple - would I be OK if I PM'd you about something? I've just got a query that I hope you could help me with.

[sundaymorningstaple]

not a problem.

[jdillawin]

Thanks, will do now.