Work Connect programme supports international student graduates to enter the Kiwi job market

Tertiary Education Commission shares with ISANA NZ its new programme supporting international student graduates

Work Connect is a new free programme helping former international students on a post-study work visa
to get into the New Zealand job market. The programme is available in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington
and Christchurch. The Work Connect programme supports international student graduates with personalised coaching and mentoring to help them build confidence to become work ready for the kiwi job market.

An international student graduate participating in the Work Connect job-search and interview workshop

Work Connect offers participants 10 hours of support through the programme. From group workshops to one-on-one coaching, participants are taught how to plan their careers and learn and discover how the New Zealand job market works. This extends to teaching them how to prepare their CV, where to look for work that matches their qualifications, and how to prepare for a job interview. Participants also get tips on the culture of a typical kiwi workplace.

“We help our clients understand New Zealand workplaces – including how to understand the slang and humour, which is a common challenge for migrants. Employability skills is something we focus strongly on. They’re really important to Kiwi employers, things like self-management, teamwork, and a positive attitude,” says National Manager Migrant Futures, Gary Basham.

“The most important skills our clients need support with are communication and language. They’re essential to creating their own high-quality CV and cover letter − with our guidance,” says Gary.

Work Connect is open to graduate international students on (or in the process of applying to be on) a post-study work visa, with a qualification at Bachelor’s level or above (level 7 or above). The programme is run by expert careers consultants from the Tertiary Education Commission.

Do you know a recent graduate who may benefit from this programme?

Applications are now open for Work Connect in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch. To apply now or find out more, graduates can visit careers.govt.nz/workconnect or phone 0800 222 733 and ask for Work Connect.