Finding a job in Buenos Aires
Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires, is the country's loci for all things political and economic. Depending on the overall economy, it isn't hard to find a job — as long as you are flexible in your demands. Buenos Aires has a dynamic economy mainly based on the tertiary sector with services, finance, tourism, communications.
The region's largest port is at the mouth of the Rio de la Plata, which links to Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay — and from there to the rest of the world. Scope out the local labour market before you arrive. You want to get a feel for which sectors fit you best.
The local economy
In 2012, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was estimated to be about $348 million for Buenos Aires. A vibrant economy which has more ups and downs than Coney Island's roller coaster.
Important industries include financial services, transportation, communications and export. Other activities include trade, leasing and real estate — all of which significantly contribute to the economy.
With many international and multinational companies, Buenos Aires is slowly adapting to the global market. Younger workers are welcoming the changes, but older workers are upset that three-hour lunches followed by a siesta are no longer popular and often not allowed.
The job market in Buenos Aires
Argentina is a tourist destination. The tourism industry helps support hospitality, catering, hotel/motel, car repair, and other industries which rely on a strong tourist dollar. If you even come close to having the required qualifications, don't hesitate to apply.
Jobs can be found in the language teaching arena. Think ‘ESL' or English as a Second Language. But don't start celebrating yet. Argentines are taught English in the public schools, so the only English speakers language schools hire are those with a wider than average vocabulary with proven ability to move the student from fair-to-good English skills to perfect English skills. The good news is that other languages such as French and Russian are in demand and the language institutes almost constantly look for teachers of these — and other — languages.
As of September 2019, the best market for an expat looking for work in Buenos Aires is the information and communication technology industries. Expats with experience in finance are in demand now as well.
Finding a job in Buenos Aires
The mainstays of finding work which work in America and Europe, such as classified ads, local newspapers and job websites are available here as well. However, the best way to find work is through word-of-mouth as Argentina's workforce can be closed and tight-knit with only family and friends learning about new openings.
The services of a recruiter or recruitment agency are often recommended, but conduct your due diligence before signing a contract. The wages in Argentine are low, and you can wind up being in debt for years to a job recruiter.
The interview etiquette in Buenos Aires
Now, forget the American rules about taboo topics in job interviews.
Photographs and resumes, here called a “CV,” are required as is your birthdate. Feel free to exceed the one-page resume limit.
Be ready to explain why you are in Buenos Aires and don't panic if you don't have a work visa.
Unofficially, most jobs foreigners find, such as language teaching, don't require visas. Work visas can be completely forgotten until a potential employer asks about your status. If you will be freelancing for an out-of-country company, visas aren't necessary.
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