New Year, New Job?

The new year often brings about change in every area of our lives, and this may include a change of career. If you are looking for an exciting, challenging and rewarding role, then read on, as we could have the job for you!

Acorn Global is currently hosting a range of job vacancies based within the Geo-membrane Industry on behalf of the Australian Geo-membrane Business, Fabtech.

The prospective job vacancies are primarily engineering and environmental positions of employment, offering an exceptional selection of benefits including:

A chance to emigrate to a warmer climate.

      A significant annual pay rise (£55,000+ per annum).

      Flight and Visa expenses funded.

      Assistance with accommodation.

      Roster: 3 weeks on/1 week off.

      An opportunity for a new start.

Fabtech is a national market leader that specialises in employment for the Geo-membrane Industry. The business encompasses the lining and covering of dams, reservoirs, landfills, effluent lagoons, tunnels, irrigation channels, mines and tanks.

Their current vacancies include Geomembrane Installers, Labourers and Master Seamers with 30-40 positions in total to be filled as soon as possible.

Role Overview:

Completion of duties including welding, design, fabrication and installation of geo-membrane liners and covers in dams, tanks and other geo-membrane applications. All tasks and standards to be set by the on-site supervisor.

Essential Experience Requirements:

- Minimum of 12 months experience in a similar if not the same profession.

- The ability to meet quality standards, performance and expectations.

- Adherence to National, State and local WHSE requirements.

- Understanding and awareness of the Fantech Occupational Health, Safety and Environment (OHS&E) requirements.

- Experience with and knowledge of Geo-membrane applications and welding and construction techniques.

- White card and a valid driver’s license.

- Able the operation complex welding tools.

- Demonstrative experience of working in fabrication workshops and on construction sites.

- Understanding of Fabtech construction methodologies and technical specifications.

- Australian indentured apprenticeship.

If you’re interested in learning more about these roles or even applying for a position, visit the Acorn Global website today! 

Finding a new job: what you need to know

Chances are, if you're reading this you must be on the hunt for a new job. Sadly in today's environment of recession, increasing unemployment and companies losing staff at an alarming rate, the likelihood of leaving one job and strolling straight into another is slim. But there are ways to increase your chances of securing that all-important new career. Below, we highlight some essential tips to put you ahead of the competition.

Start your search early.
The earlier the better. If you get yourself out there first, you’re competing with less people. If you wait until redundancies are all over the place and the unemployment numbers are jumping up, then it’s too late: you’re in the same boat as everyone else. If you know you might be in trouble soon, start looking now.

Networking is important.
Networking can sometimes be the quickest way to a new job. And when jobs are few and far between, this is even more applicable. In many cases, the best chance you have at getting your foot in the door of a place you really want to work is by knowing someone who already works there and can let you know if and when positions become available.

Keep in touch with contacts.
If you’re currently still employed, get together a contact list while you can still get hold of that information. Remember, you want to enlist the help of anyone you know when you’re in the middle of a job search, but the best prospects by far, are people in your industry. Know who they are and make sure they don’t forget you.

Learn to accept rejection.
As hard as this is to do sometimes, you need to have a non-defeatist attitude about rejection. It’s not always about you. Sometimes it’s just a matter of time and luck. Try, and then try again. And again. And again.

Be prepared to lower your expectations.
Sometimes, your ideal career just isn’t available. You may have to take what you can get, even if it’s a step down. It’s better to have an average job now so you still have a source of income and you’re still gaining experience. This is much preferable to holding out for your dream job for months or even years. The opportunities will be there again soon, and when they are, you can land the dream job then.

For more career advice, and a range of fantastic job opportunities overseas, check out the Acorn Global website.

Helen Lock

Mining Geologists: what do they do?

Our second post on careers within the mining sector looks at the role of a Mining Geologist. Playing an important role throughout the entire life cycle of a mining project, mining geologists use their technical knowledge and project management skills to make sure mining operations are carried out in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner.

A mining geologist applies the science of structure, composition, and the physical properties of the world we live in to mining. Their main responsibility is to ensure that minerals and other similar materials are extracted from mines and quarries in a way that results in maximum profit and involves minimal problems.

Before any mining project can begin however, the materials need to be located. Using tools such as aerial photographs, field maps, and geophysical surveys, a mining geologist determines where valuable materials are and estimates how many of those materials are in that location. They also determine the life span of the mining project and determine how profitable it is likely to be, by accessing the grade and structure of the materials.

Mining geologists also map the area where they believe valuable minerals are. They record and compile geological data so that the mining engineer has accurate details of the location, structure, and distribution of minerals in a certain location. Additionally, they must make computer models of the mine, quarry, or pit that they can share with the mining engineer. Together, the two find the best approach for establishing the work environment and extracting the valuable materials. These responsibilities make mining geologists indispensable, as without them, mining companies would not know where to dig, how deep to dig, or when to stop digging.

One of the most important aspects of a mining geologist's job is to provide advice on how to keep the mining environment safe. They do this by identifying dangers such as rock faults, ground water or conditions that could result in uncontrolled explosions. Workers lives and the mining company’s assets depend on the identification of these dangers.

As an entry-level mining engineer, your salary is likely to range between £21,000 and £27,000 per annum. However, with a few years’ experience this can increase to around £46,000 a year. Senior mining engineers with project management responsibilities can earn up to £70,000 and beyond.

If the sound of becoming a mining geologist appeals to you, or you simply want to know more about the types of jobs involved in the mining industry, have a look at the Acorn Global website for more.

Helen Lock

Mining Engineers: what do they do?

Over the past 12 months, you will probably have heard in the news about the 'boom' in the mining industry, especially in Australia. There is a buzz around the topic, and for good reason: with the current global recession, any industry showing such an increase in profits and jobs is a valuable commodity.  

All this is fantastic news obviously, but if you've been hearing these stories and are interested in moving into the mining sector, you may be clueless as to what the job actually involves. There's more to mining than one type of career however, so over several blog posts we will highlight different jobs that could lead you into your ideal career. First up: mining engineers.

A mining engineer ensures the safe and economically sound development of mines and other underground operations. The role combines an understanding of the effects of these structures on their surrounding environment, technical knowledge and management skills, and the person carrying out this role often has a background in geology, as well as civil, mechanical and electrical engineering.

Mining engineers are involved at all stages of a project and are expected to supervise all phases of mining and take responsibility for the management of it. Before a new site is developed, they assess its viability and assist with planning the mine’s structure. They are also involved in the final closure and rehabilitation process of the mine site.

Mining engineers work with geological and metallurgical engineers to find and approve new ore deposits. They also develop new equipment or processes for mining and try to improve working conditions.

There are opportunities in the UK in this career path, but due to the nature of the industry, mining engineering is an international career and the majority of opportunities are overseas.

Starting salaries for mining engineers vary between £20,000 and £25,000, but with five years' experience, salaries can increase to around £45,000 plus.

Salaries at senior level (e.g. after 10-15 years in the role) range between £50,000 and £65,000. Moving abroad to work brings a further increase in salary, with added benefits such as pension schemes, flights and visas.

Hours of work tend to be long, particularly if you are based overseas. Mining engineers working overseas are likely to be on site for up to three months, followed by a period of two weeks' leave, which they can spend elsewhere.

Positives
- Plenty of job opportunities

- Variety of tasks and areas to choose from: no two days are the same 
- Excellent benefits, such as housing and visas provided, as well as good pension schemes 
- fantastic salaries 

- Chance to move to an exciting new location

- There's a strong sense of community and bonding given close working conditions.

- There are long periods off, creating opportunities to pursue other interests.

- There are opportunities for training and growth depending on the field of expertise.

Negatives
- There are safety risks involved, especially working underground 
- The hours can be long; 12 hour shifts are normal 

- Working overseas in this role may lead to periods of personal isolation. However, it also offers exposure to a variety of different cultures and communities, which can be a rewarding experience

- No long-term job security. When it's over, it's over.

If the idea of working in the mining industry appeals to you, or you are a mining engineer looking for a new challenge, check out the Acorn Global website for some fantastic job opportunities.

Helen Lock

Increase your chances of finding a job

You've heard it a million times already: the job market is tough at the moment. If you need to find work though, this news isn't helpful at all; in fact it’s positively depressing. And chances are, if you’re reading this you may be one of the thousands of people who are mid job search, and need advice not discouragement. So just for you, we've got some tips to help you maximise your chances of getting that all-important first step on the career ladder.

- Don’t look for the ‘perfect’ job: There is no such thing. It’s incredibly rare to get everything you want from one role, especially when jobs are scarce enough as it is. Letting go of perfectionism is essential, and there is always time to find better opportunities and make valuable connections when you are secure in another job.

- Prepare, and then prepare some more: Preparation is key; whether you’re sending out CVs, applying for a position, or attending an interview. Make sure all cover letters you send are specific to each individual job role, and research potential companies you are interested in working for.

- Network: Both social and professional networking can bring great results when it comes to your job search. Make sure you have a presence on websites such as Twitter and LinkedIn, and look for community and networking events in your local area.

- Don’t be discouraged by rejection: Being rejected is just another part of the application process. Competition for positions is fierce, and you won’t be suitable for all roles. However, if it’s really taking longer than expected, it may be time to rethink your methods and come up with a new plan.

- Start at the bottom: Sometimes, the job you really want isn't always available. If you can get a foot in the door at the company you want to work for, but it’s at a much lower level than you anticipated, it could be a good idea to take it, as the opportunity to work your way up is always there.

- Don’t rule out temporary jobs: Getting a temporary job is better than having no job at all. You never know when a temporary job may turn into a permanent one: just put in 100% and show the company they can’t do without you. 

At Acorn Global, we are dedicated to helping you find that perfect new career. Visit the website for more advice, how to register with us, and a selection of some fantastic job opportunities.

Something to brighten up your day...

Ever thought about moving Down Under? As the days get darker and the weather gets colder, this video might give you the push you need to make the move!

For more information and advice about making the move, as well as a list of current jobs in Australia, visit the Acorn Global website.

Arriving in a new country: the first month

From the moment you make the decision to relocate to another country, to the moment you arrive, time often seems to pass in a blur. One minute you're sorting through your belongings and telling friends and family about your plans; the next you find yourself fresh from the plane and at the beginning of a whole new way of life.

This whirlwind of events also means that you arrive at your destination dazed and confused as to what to do next. Obviously things will differ from country to country, and are dependant on the support you receive from employers etc, but below we've listed a few tips on the important factors to remember during your first month of arrival.

When you first arrive
- Arrange a hire car and check into any temporary accommodation that you've organised.
- Contact friends and family back home to let them know you've arrived safely.
- Depending on the time you arrive and the difference in time zones, try and stay awake throughout the day to help you adjust as quickly as possible, and keep jetlag to a minimum.
- Consider buying a pay-as-you-go sim to put in your old phone, which will enable you to make local calls cheaply.
- Find the nearest internet cafe so you can stay connected.
- If you have a recruitment agency, keep in contact so they can provide you with help and advice in your first few days.
- Leave a few days free to recover from the journey and explore your new home.

One week in

- Register at your local embassy or consulate and make sure you get a tax file number.
- Install a land line and set up internet access if you are living in permenant property.
- If you have children, register them at a local school.
- Invite your new neighbours round for drinks and to socialise.
- If you are only in temporary accommodation, explore the areas you want to live in and meet with rental agents to research property options.
- Consider buying a car and setting up insurance.

One month in

- Review your financial situation and transfer more funds if needed.
- Research family trusts and pension transfer laws.
- Register with your local health services (doctor/dentist etc)
- Attend social functions and join clubs to meet new people and help you settle into your new life.

After the first month of living in your new country, you should hopefully begin to feel more settled and at home. Keeping yourself busy and meeting potential new friends is key to settling in as quickly as possible, so make sure these are high on your to-do list. For more information and advice, as well as a list of our current job opportunities, have a look at the Acorn Global website.

Helen Lock

Australia's economy boom

With the UK being one of the top three countries worldwide for emigration to Australia, accounting for more than 13.7% of all that relocate there, it comes as no surprise to hear that the economy is booming. And with the country now overtaking Spain to become the 12^th largest economy in the world, it will no doubt mean that many more Brits will head to the country for a better life.

Since 2007, Australia’s economy has overtaken the economies of South Korea, Mexico and Spain, suggesting that the Global recession hasn’t hit the country as hard as anywhere else. Given the country’s relative population size, this seems even more of an impressive achievement, but the recent mining boom has no doubt contributed to the growth.

Paul Arthur, director of migration advisors The Emigration Group said, “The economies of both Australia and New Zealand are booming – there are literally thousands of vacancies for Brits who may be struggling to find work here or are worried about their future in the UK.”

With solid growth, low unemployment figures, steady inflation and a high investment in resources, Australia’s prospects look fantastic. Add to that year-round sunshine, a fantastic education system and friendly locals and you’ve got the ideal country to emigrate to.

Acorn Global currently has a fantastic range of job opportunities in Australia, with a range of excellent benefits. For more information on available positions and how to register, visit the website now.

Helen Lock

Having doubts about moving Down Under? Watch this!

Thinking about moving to Australia? You'll be packing your bags after watching this video!

For more information on relocating to Australia and a selection of jobs Down Under, head over to the Acorn Global website.

Questions YOU should ask at an interview

When attending a job interview, you're usually so concerned about the questions you'll be asked by the interviewer that the idea of asking them any questions doesn't even enter your mind. It's very common to have the mindset that if you're offered a job you should take it, no questions asked. 

But the moment when the interviewer asks the obligatory "do you have any questions?" is the perfect time to find out more about the ins and outs of what you may end up doing. After all, surely you want to know everything about the company you may be about to work for?

Moving abroad adds a whole new list of questions you may need to ask the interviewer, as there are many more things to consider. It's always best to ask if you have any doubts or burning questions, as you don't want to end up on the other side of the world regretting not asking that one question which could have saved you a lot of heartache and stress.

Below are a list of questions you should always ask at an interview to help you make an informed decision about whether you do actually want the job and if it's right for you.

Can you tell me more about the company?

Obviously, if you've been told about the company during the interview, you may want to leave this one out. However, if you've only talked about your role, use this opportunity to find out where you will fit in and what the work environment is like.

Is this position a new or existing one?

This can help give you an idea of what’s expected of you, and where you fit in within the workplace. If the role is new, then ask why it’s been created or how your performance will be measured. If it’s an existing one, ask who you’ll be replacing, to give you a better impression of how you can work to your fullest potential.

How many other people are there in the team?

If you’re going to be working as part of a bigger team, it’s always worth having an idea of who it consists of. What are their specific roles, and will they be working closely with you? Again, this is a good way of finding out where you fit within the company.

What would my day-to-day responsibilities be?

Find out what a typical day in the job would involve. Ask about your area of responsibility, and what the expectations of you are. This way, there will be no surprises when you turn up on the first day.

Are there any chances of promotion?

How does the role you are applying for fit into the company’s long-term plans? Is there a clearly defined career path? This is a good way to show that you are looking to progress in your career, and that you are keen to develop. It's probably best not to tell your future employer that you want their job, but showing ambition is always good.

What are the company’s plans for the future?

This shows that you’re interested about the business as a whole, and not just the role you're applying for. It's also good to find out if there are any plans for development or the creation of new jobs that you may be interested in in the future.

It goes without saying that these questions won't apply to all interviews. You may find out the answer to some during the interview itself, or they simply might not be relevant. The important thing is that you ask questions in the first place. By showing interest in the company and the role you are applying for, it proves to the interviewer that you see this job as a career and not just a temporary fix.

For more information on all aspects of starting a new job abroad, the interview process, and a selection of our current available jobs, have a look at the Acorn Global website.

Helen Lock

Could it be time for a new job?

No matter how much you love your job, there comes a time when even the best career loses its charm. But how do work out the difference between a bad day and a bad job? And is it really worth the upheaval and stress it may bring, especially with the current state of the job market? Below are some signs that show maybe it's time to move on.

- You dread Mondays

No-one particularly likes going back to work after the weekend, but if you literally can't face the thought of getting out of bed, and you rack your brains for excuses not to go in, then it's probably time for a change.

- You want every other job but yoursYour best friend's career has never interested you before, but suddenly you feel jealous every time they mention it. When others complain about their jobs, you wonder why they're complaining when they've got it so much better than you. If every other job sounds better than yours, then maybe you should think about applying for one.

- You feel like all you do is complain

Everyone moans about their job from time to time; it's practically a law of being employed. But if  you find most of your sentences contain some sort of complaint about your job, it may be time to look for something that makes you a bit more cheerful.

- Procrastination is your favourite task

There’s nothing wrong with zoning out every now and then. But when it begins to interfere with day-to-day activities and you struggle to complete even the simplest task, then you should probably find something that gives you more focus.

- You don't get along with anyone

Obviously we can't be best friends with everyone, but if people are unwilling to even make eye contact with you, and no-one seems to know your name, then it's probably time to find a career where you have something in common with at least one person.

Beginning a job search is never easy, but if any of the above points apply to you, maybe it's time to start updating your CV. Over on the Acorn Global website there's a fantastic selection of jobs available, and we're always on hand to answer any questions you may have, and offer support all the way through your search.

Helen Lock

Moving abroad: surprising benefits you may not have considered

There are some obvious benefits of living and working abroad that everyone knows about: a complete change of lifestyle, different (often hotter!) climate, better opportunities etc. But if you're still unsure, even after considering all the positives, here are some advantages that you may not have considered:

- It makes you appreciate the little things

From family and friends to home comforts such as a good Sunday roast or baked beans: once you move away these will no doubt be the things you miss most. But think of it the other way around; these are also the things you'll really appreciate once you get to have/see them again. After all, they do say that absence makes the heart grow fonder. 

- You can be whoever you want to be

Obviously you're not going to become a completely different person just by moving to a different country, but being in surroundings where no-one knows who you are, or anything about your past, means you are able to omit all those little details you'd rather no-one knows about.

- You've always got a conversation-starter when meeting new people

We all know the feeling of entering new surroundings and not knowing anyone. But by coming from a completely different country and culture, it instantly gives you an opener to any conversation. Mentioning that you're not local and asking for advice about where to go/what to do instantly opens up communication between you and others, and may even lead to invitations to try new things.

- It's a chance to make lasting new friendships

Of course you'll never find anyone to replace your family and friends back home, but moving to a new place means you can connect with a whole new group of people who can bring something completely different into your life. 

Relocating overseas is no doubt a daunting prospect. However, by weighing up the pros and cons and considering factors you may not have thought about before, you may start to see that there are plenty of great things waiting in store for you.

For more information and advice, and for a list of our current overseas opportunities, head over to the Acorn Global website.

Helen Lock

Are you applying for jobs that really suit you?

Making the decision to find a new career: sounds fairly straightforward doesn't it? You may be able to update your CV, write a cover letter and send it out to prospective employers, but do you really want the job you're applying for? Does it suit your needs, and can you see yourself doing it for a while? If the answer is no, and you've just applied to several positions to gain employment as fast as possible, then it may be time to stop and think about what you really want. After all, even if you do get the job, you may find yourself looking for work again in six months time when you find it's not what you were really looking for in the first place.

Throw in a move abroad into the mix, and things then get a whole lot more complicated. The last thing you want is to give up your home, job and friends to relocate overseas, then find out six months later that it's not what you really wanted after all, and you want to move back. The cost, not to mention the emotional upheaval, probably isn't something you want to be considering at such an important time.

So before you send off that CV, you may want to consider the following points that will help you decide if the position is right for you:

- What type of person are you? Do you find it easy to follow instructions, or do you want to be the one in charge? Can you see yourself working in an office, or do you want a more active role?

- Are you ambitious? Applying for a job where there isn't any prospect of progressing will end up frustrating you if you want to develop your career.

- How do you cope with competition? Does it motivate you to work harder or is it something that puts you off?

- Do you consider job satisfaction to be important? If the answer is yes, then a job that you dread going to each day probably isn't for you.

- Do you intend to continue in the same type of employment? If you were an engineer in the UK, do you want to continue that profession when you move to another country? If not, you may need to consider starting a new profession at a lower salary point, or even completing some courses before you start.

- What skills do you have? Take some time to write these skills down: you may realise you have the right qualifications to try something new, or apply for a more qualified position with a bigger slary and better benefits.

- Is there a market for your skills in the area where you want to live? You may be the best mechanic in the country, but if there are no jobs in the place you want to move to, it may be worth considering a different location or a change in career direction.

Once you've worked out the answers to these questions, you will hopefully be in a better position to find a job - and location - that's right for you. Over on the Acorn Global website there is a great selection of jobs available, and further information on getting the career you really want.

Helen Lock 

The interview process: getting it right

So you've decided that a career abroad is right for you. You've told friends and family that there is a possibility you will be moving, researched places to live, and looked into moving costs. But there's one last hurdle before it all becomes a reality: the job interview itself. Obviously you need to get through this process before anything else can happen, so it's important you get it right. Below are some tips on making the best impression from start to finish.

- Research the prospective employer. What is the background of the company? Do they have any current projects they’re working on? This will prepare you for any questions you may be asked about the business.

- Does the company use social media? Is the tone formal/informal? Knowing this can give you a good idea about the tone of the interview and the nature of the company; it may also allow you to get to know about the people who work there.

- Have a good understanding of your abilities, interests, skills, goals and experiences; this will help you understand and present yourself more successfully. 

- Memorise specific examples of how you have used your skills to achieve measurable results in previous job situations, and apply them to the job you're interviewing for.

- Plan how you will get to the interview and how long it will take. Being prepared for any potential delays will mean there is less of a chance of you getting lost/arriving late.

- Prepare some answers for questions you might be asked. Questions such as ‘what are your strengths/weaknesses?’, ‘why should the company employ you?’ and ‘where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?’ are fairly common.

Attending a job interview is the final step before you get that all-important job offer, so it’s important you get it right. Follow these tips though, and you’ll be one step closer to success! For more advice and information, visit the Acorn Global website.

Helen Lock

Starting a new life abroad: the Acorn Global way

When you begin the initial search for a new job, there are many criteria you may have when it comes to finding the role you want. But have you ever considered the recruitment company who finds you the job? When considering a move overseas this is especially important, as they are the ones who will (hopefully) play a big part in your new life abroad. Here at Acorn Global we are there for you throughout the whole application process and beyond, ensuring all your questions are answered and putting your mind at ease during this exciting time.

So how does the recruitment process happen? Getting the initial interview is obviously the first part of the process. Once you have applied for a position overseas you will be assigned a Consultant who will support you through the journey. There are several different steps in the application, and they include:

- Initial application

- Telephone screening

- Local presentation: Once the initial screening has happened, you will be invited to attend a local presentation where you will be given information on the country, the company and the position you have applied for. You will also have the opportunity to ask plenty of questions on a one-to-one basis.

- Formal interview: This includes the following types of questions; technical competency, attitude and behavioural assessments, and why you wish to move overseas. If you reach the standard we're looking for, we then process their application and present the details to our client.

- Interview with client

- Job offer: The final stage would be a formal job offer from the client, subject to reference check and a successful visa application.

Then it’s time for the moving process to begin! At Acorn Global we aim to complete the immigration process and have you in your new location within a twelve week period; however because of the reliance on Government departments and immigration processes, times can vary. In the meantime however, there is a lot to organise and sort out: bank accounts need to be set up, you will need to find out tax advice, new mobile phones and numbers will need to be arranged etc. Acorn has a number of partner organisations to help you with any questions you may have, explain exactly what you need, and support you throughout the whole process to ensure you and your family settle into your new environment as quickly and easily as possible.

Then before you know it, you'll be in your new home, about to start a new career! It's a long journey, but with Acorn Global, we aim to make it as easy as possible, and are there every step of the way with you.

For more information and details of our current job opportunities abroad, head over to the Acorn Global website.

Helen Lock

Relocating overseas with children: it doesn't have to be as stressful as you imagine!

Planning a move is often stressful at the best of times, but what happens if you add in children, and the move is to another country? Surely it's a disaster waiting to happen, especially if your kids are at the age where they're settled in school and have a solid friendship group? The prospect of leaving all that behind may understandably be met with some resistance.

Before you spend ridiculous amounts of money on bribes and gifts to soften the blow however, there are a few ways to make the moving process easier for your children to understand and come to terms with. Below are some tips to save your sanity and hopefully reduce some stress!

Plan your move as a family
Make sure your children feel that they are involved in the moving process and are part of the decision making. Involving them with this will help them to get excited, instead of dreading the move.

Talk through any concerns

Most children will probably feel stressed and upset when faced with the idea of moving, as it is a major change. Allow them to talk through their fears, anxiety and concerns with you, and provide as much comfort as possible. Be sure that they understand that it is safe to talk with you about any worries they may have.

Use the internet
Give children an opportunity to get to know their new home. Look at websites with them to show them where in Australia you’ll be living. Show them pictures from real estate sites of the type of house you'll be moving to. 

Also, if their new school has a website, be sure to show them where they'll be attending school, as well. Providing as much advance knowledge as possible will help them to feel more secure about the changes that will be taking place.

Plan your goodbyes
Make sure your children get their friends' email and postal mail addresses, so that they can keep in touch after the move. Allowing them to plan a goodbye party will help distract them and give them something else to get excited about. If you have close relatives you will be leaving behind, arranging a date in the future for them to visit will give something else for them to look forward to.

Try and get the timing right
If possible, relocate to Australia the beginning of a new school term. This allows your child to start the new school year along with everyone else, meaning they are less likely to feel isolated. Inviting new school friends round to play after school also helps take your children's minds off the major change that has taken place.

Keep communicating
Children are generally very adventurous and can become very excited about their new life in Australia. The key is to make sure they feel comfortable talking about how they feel. Feeling homesick is just as normal for children as it is for adults, no matter how successful the move has gone.

Relocating to Australia with children doesn't have to be as difficult as you'd imagine. By making sure they feel part of the process and are able to talk with you about how they are feeling, it means they are more likely to become excited about the prospect of living in another country.

For more information about moving overseas, and for a list of job opportunities abroad, have a look at the Acorn Global website.

Helen Lock

Australian Census 2011: what does this mean for the job-seeker?

If you're thinking of moving Down Under, an obvious concern is missing friends and family. Will the Australians understand your sense of humour? Will you ever find anyone who can empathise with your desire for a proper bar of English chocolate, or cup of tea? Australians may speak the language, but cultures can vary massively from country to country.

The results of Australia's 2011 census, which was released in June this year, may help to reassure you however. out of the 21,507,717 people currently living in the country, 911,593 were born in the UK. 7,238,533 of Australians have English ancestry, a 1% higher percentage than than those with an Australian heritage. 76.5% of the population speak English as their main language, so there should be no cultural divides in that department!

The census also revealed some interesting facts about the country itself. The average age of an Australian person is 37, with only 13.82% of the population being over the age of 65. The country is still relatively young in age as well as history, which lends itself well to the outdoor, relaxed image it is famous for. 

Average earnings and household income has also risen considerably since 2006: the average wage for an individual has increased from $750 per week to $885, and the average household income rose by 20.2% to $1234 per week in 2011.

All the information revealed by the census makes for interesting and informative reading, especially if you are considering a move to Australia. With higher incomes than ever before, and a wealth of new job opportunities for skilled employees, as well as a rich and diverse culture, why wouldn't you want to move Down Under?

Helen Lock

For more information about job opportunities in Australia, head on over to the Acorn Global website.

No jobs in the UK? Move to Australia!

If you are currently searching for a new career, the constant talk of recession and unemployment in the UK is enough to put even the most dedicated job-seeker off. However, for some countries this is simply not the case: a recent report has highlighted the fact that in the next five years, Australia needs to find 800,000 new workers to keep their economy going strong.

This demand for workers has happened because there has been a recent explosion in the service industry: jobs including as mining, healthcare and education are all in desperate need of staff, but there aren't enough qualified people to fill the positions. This also means that employers are now looking further afield to find skilled workers, and the UK is an obvious choice. 

The demand for service industry staff also highlights the fact that there is a shift occurring in the job market, as the expected loss of around 85,000 manufacturing positions means more employees with professional skills are needed. 

But what does this mean for you? Well, if you have a skill, or are qualified in a service industry, there may be a job waiting for you Down Under. Low-skill jobs are only expected to make up seven percent of all the new jobs created, so the other 93% are there for the taking.

Mining companies are expected to require around 100,000 new workers over the next five years, while healthcare and social assistance employers will need 240,000 staff. Professional services companies will require 110,000 new workers, so there is a job out there to suit almost everyone. Education, tourism, retail and financial services will also create new jobs as the manufacturing sector shrinks.

If you are interested in relocating to Australia to begin a new life, it is reassuring to know there are jobs out there in these tough economic times. For more information, and a list of our current jobs, head on over to the Acorn Global website.

Helen Lock

Preparing to move abroad: the final three months

So you've landed the dream job overseas, broken the news to friends and family, and handed in your notice at your current job. Now it's time for reality to kick in, and the practicalities to be sorted out. 

Getting caught up in the excitement of a big move can mean that certain priorities get sidetracked while you plan your first barbecue on the beach. But cramming all the important stuff into the final week before leaving is a recipe for disaster, and will ensure you end up at your destination stressed and likely to have forgotten something. below are the important factors to consider in the three months leading up to your move.

Three months before

- Research shipping companies and gather quotes to see if you can get a good deal. It's also a good idea to do this for flights as well.

- If you are taking a pet with you, ensure they are fit to fly and book their flights and quarantine if required. Quarantine stations get surprisingly busy so it's a good idea to confirm you can get your pet a place to avoid stress when you arrive.

- It's a good idea to consider selling any unwanted household items or donating them to charities, family and friends. Starting early is the best plan, as this can take longer than you think.

- If possible, open a bank account in your new country, as well as an account with a currency trader so you get the best deal when transferring your money. It is also worthwhile to ask your bank for credit references at this point, as official paperwork can take time to process.

- Ask your doctor and dentist for hand-over files to take with you when you sign up to new healthcare professionals abroad.

Two months before

- At this stage you will probably be spending most of your time organising the move, but make sure to take regular breaks to avoid becoming overly stressed. Make the most of spending time with friends and family, and think about arranging dates for them to visit you; this can make the separation more bearable.

- If you have no fixed place to live once you arrive at your destination, look into renting temporary accommodation for when you arrive. Also, if you are renting your current property, make sure you let your landlord know about the move.

- If you have children, try and register them in new schools and make sure they have contact details of friends, so they can keep in contact.

One month to go

- Ensure that you have informed all the official agencies of your move: these include the tax office, DVLA, pension company, bank etc. 

- Make sure you have paid off any direct debits such as internet connection, television and phone subscription, and let the companies know when you want to be disconnected.

One week to go

-  Almost everything should be finalised by this stage, so take a moment to get excited about the move and what the journey has in store for you.

- Cancel any newspaper subscriptions or milk deliveries, and if you have sold your car, cancel the insurance on it. Double check that all your goods have been shipped and any other unwanted items are disposed of.

- Ensure you have some local currency on you for when you arrive at your destination, as you never know when you might need it.

- Make spending time with friends and family a priority, as this will probably be the last time you will see them for a while. Once everything is sorted, you can sit back and relax, knowing the journey is taken care of and it's time to begin your new life overseas!


Helen Lock


For more information on job opportunities abroad, and further help and advice, visit the Acorn Global website.