As Korean companies expand their operations on the world stage, they are hiring a growing number of non-Koreans for positions both in Korea and overseas. The number of non-Koreans chasing such jobs continues to outpace supply though, especially at the entry level, and so applying effectively is more important than ever.
Unless you’ve networked your way to an unpublished position (it happens!) or have unique talents that would give you global competitiveness just about anywhere, you will have to do your homework and prepare adequately for the process in advance.
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“Guidelines for Preparing a Resume/CV and Cover Letter/Self-Introduction Letter for Getting a Job in Korea”
Here are the the key points:
Identify what kind of organization you’re applying to.
- Most multinational companies in Korea follow international standards for hiring and rely heavily on recruiters.
- Korean companies also rely on recruiters for higher level positions, but if applying at the entry level, you’ll likely go through a Korean HR department.
- Some “multinational” companies operate in Korea as Korean companies and you may find yourself in a Korean-style process there, too.
About the resume/CV
- Include a photograph, your birthdate, your nationality and a link to your LinkedIn profile
- Be specific about your background education and work experience
- Show your commitment to staying and adapting to Korea and your new company
- Link to online materials which are relevant
About the cover letter
- Koreans call it a “personal introduction letter”
- Keep it short, especially if written in English.
- Translating the self-introduction letter can be a good move as it helps the HR person get to the important information quickly and helps you stand out from the rest of the pack of applicants
- Point out your visa status if it means the company won’t need to sponsor you
Additional Resources on KBC and Elsewhere About Getting a Job in Korea
Public Resources
- The KBC-McKinney Consulting Webinar: “Working with Executive Recruiters and Planning Your Career in Korea”
- “A Map to a Career in Korea”, by Jared Muloongo
Member Resources
- Korea Business Tip: Is it possible to apply for a job in Korea when a person is outside of Korea? Or should I just go to Korea and start applying for jobs when I’m there?
- Korea Business Tip: What sets you radically apart from the countless young Korean professionals currently looking for jobs in your industry in Korea?
- Korea business Tip: Will Korean-language skills boost my job efforts in Korea?
- Korea Business Tip: What Are My Visa Options for Working Long-Term in Korea?
- The KBC Professional Certification Program (a great resume booster!)
