International recruitment into adult social care

Once your new employer confirms you now have a job, a conversation with them, either via telephone or video conferencing, will be helpful and will create space for you to discuss specific details in preparation for starting your new job.  Although most employers usually take the initiative to organize this, you may wish to request an opportunity to chat through what comes next.

This meeting will provide you with the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns or expectations you may have prior to starting in your new role. The following suggestions can guide you on things to consider and discuss:

• Discuss and reaffirm your values and how they align with your employer’s organisational values. 
• If given a welcome letter (this might be an email or email attachment) take the time to go through it carefully and using generic search engines (e.g., google) explore local areas of interest mentioned within it.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions about its content in your meeting.   
• Read the ‘Employee Handbook’ carefully as well as relevant company policies. 
• Ask about the basic nuances and colloquialisms at the initial meeting. Remember this is ‘brief’, you will eventually learn the culture, local nuances, and people’s ways of speaking as you integrate into work. 
• Ask about information regarding payslips and how pay is divided to meet some of your civic responsibilities e.g. paying tax.
• If your company will be providing accommodation, discuss the number of people you (and your family) will be sharing the apartment/house with, the protocol for using common areas, if furnished or access to basic appliances, heating, existence of a driveway or garden and any other useful information. 
• Discuss any transportation needs, to and from work.
• Find out if your employer will be willing to offer you cash advance or an alternative form of payment to sustain you until you receive your first wages. 
• Ensure you maintain connections with your employer’s contact person/named mentor.  

The recruitment and selection process can be a stressful experience for anyone, the preparation before the interview, the wait to hear the outcome, the excitement of being selected for the job and the ensuing uncertainties of working and settling into a new organisation.

It is helpful to be prepared and open-minded as you embark on your onboarding process. Having important information in advance, such as that included in the Employee Handbook, will help you prepare for commencing and settling at work.  Do not be afraid to discuss your concerns with your new employer and where possible, agree on a timeline for accessing information.