Over a decade ago, I landed in Australia country bright-eyed, baby-faced, and with absolutely no idea what I was getting into. Looking back, it’s a miracle I stayed; the dream nearly ended within the first 90 days.
Whether you are staring at a flight tracker dreaming of the Southern Cross, the London skyline, or the lights of New York, you aren't alone. We are in a new "Generation Migration." But opportunity is only massive if you play your cards right.
Here is how to avoid the mistakes I made.
1. Skip the “Pre-Move” Adventure
That month-long backpacking trip on the way to your destination? Save it. Sipping drinks by a pool in a cheap transit hub feels like the dream, but it drains your "settling-in" fund before you even arrive.
The pro move: Get to your destination first. Secure the job, get the first few paychecks in, and then use your stronger local currency to holiday later. Adventure is better when it’s funded by a salary, not your savings.
An actual picture of my Bintang Iin Bali 😉
2. Tailor Your Search Before You Touch Down
Don’t wait until you land to fix your CV. Start tailoring your profile to local standards and applying while you’re still at home.
Understand the Visa Landscape: Governments frequently overhaul "Core Skills" lists. Don’t waste energy applying for roles that require Permanent Residency if you are on a temporary work visa.
Targeted Boards: Use niche job boards (like our Irish Insights Jobs Board) to find employers who specifically value the "grit" and international experience you bring to the table.
3. Have a "Survival" Backup Plan
Desperation is a dream-killer. Before you arrive, get your entry-level certifications for "bridge work" (whether that’s hospitality, construction safety, or childcare).
While corporate hiring can be slow, the vacancy rates in service industries remain high. Having these ready means you can start earning "rent money" the day you land, keeping your savings intact while you hunt for the "real" job.
4. Know Your Market Value
Don’t walk into interviews with a "just happy to be here" attitude. I landed a great role that launched my career, but in hindsight, I settled for less because I didn't know the local market.
The Benchmark: Do your research. If you are a specialist (like a Project Manager or Engineer), aim for the top of the bracket. I could have negotiated 20 to 30 percent more if I’d treated myself as a global talent rather than a "newbie."
5. Start in the Economic Engine
I chose a lifestyle city originally because I had friends there. It was a mistake. Four months later, I was packing for the "Big City" just to find work.
The Strategy: Go straight to the "big smoke": the Sydneys, Londons, or New Yorks. The job markets are deeper, the networking is faster, and professional salaries in major hubs are often 10 to 20 percent higher than the national average. You can move to the beach or the mountains once your career is stable.
Enjoying a few schooners by the Sydney harbour bridge with the other half
6. Leverage the "Expat" Network
The international community in any major hub is a massive, untapped resource. People who have made the move are legendary for helping each other out, but you have to be specific.
Pro Tip: Don't just ask for "a job." Use resources like the Irish Insights Founder Directory to find leaders in your specific niche (SaaS, Fintech, or Construction) or drop me an email. Reach out for a coffee, a referral or quick chat. Most Irish people abroad have been in your shoes and are far more open to a direct connection than a faceless HR portal.