2020 has rearranged a lot of people’s plans (my own included!) Change always brings lessons though, and this year has taught us a lot that we can take forward so we’re more resilient in the future.
Feeling like it has been a crazy year and you want something to lift your mood? Read this post about ‘What do we do now’ that I published in April.
We can’t change the circumstances of the world, but we can change how we respond to those circumstances. We can adapt our plans and we can prepare ourselves so we’re able to thrive with the new situation we find ourselves in – we don’t need to be trapped by our circumstances. This pandemic is going to totally change the landscape of migration for years and years to come so it’s important to be prepared for coming out the other side.
If you plan on moving to Australia in the future, the best way to create a life you love here is to come into it understanding and accepting this new way of the world and being fully prepared for whatever the future throws at you.
Here are a few things to consider:
Come to Australia when you’re financially secure
Two questions I get asked often are: ‘What does it cost to move to Australia?’ and ‘How much money do I need to move to Australia?’
If this year has taught us anything, it’s that it’s important to have at least a few months of living costs behind you in a savings account, in addition to the actual moving and relocation costs. Some people even suggest coming with savings that can cover you for a year if you’re coming on a temporary visa.
You need to know you can support yourself for a period of time if something unexpected happens. Nobody knows what the future holds – you could lose your job, get sick, have an accident, another virus could start up – literally anything could happen in the future so being financially stable puts you in the best position to get through it.
Be prepared for restricted travel
We’ve had regular visits from our family since we moved to Australia six years ago, and we felt happy knowing that we could get back to the UK within a couple of days if we needed to for any reason. This new landscape could mean it’s a few years before we’re able to see our family again. It’s something we will no longer take for granted.
If you’re moving to Australia now, do so knowing that travel can be restricted and borders can be closed for a long period of time. At least when you come into it knowing this is a risk, it makes it easier to accept. Fingers crossed, this situation resolves soon and borders can reopen and they never have to close again, but at least now you know it’s possible for the world to shut down like this so you’re prepared.
Understand that no job is secure
This year has been a big wake up call to everyone – even the most secure jobs in the most secure industries can fall apart. The world can change at the drop of a hat and something that was in demand one minute, can be struggling the next.
At times like this, it’s best to go with the flow rather than getting angry about it. If the industry you’re working in is being impacted by the current climate, don’t be afraid to pivot into something else. That might mean taking on shorter-term work, going freelance or it might mean moving your skills into a totally different industry where they can be utilised. It’s about being flexible and taking opportunities that are there, not hankering after ones that aren’t.
The truth is that NO job is totally secure in any country and there are always other jobs out there waiting.
Make the effort to develop transferable skills
Following on from the above point, no job is secure and industries are changing quickly at the moment. If you focus on developing transferable skills it puts you in the best possible position to pick up work or projects. Being able to turn your hand to different things is really valuable in today’s job market.
If things are tough in your industry, try to think outside the box and look for industries to the side of what you usually do where there may be growth. For instance, aviation is under pressure right now, but renewable energy is a growth sector. Often you’ll have skills that can translate into another industry.
Continually look to develop your skills because you never know when you might need them.
Be aware of industry challenges and set yourself up for success
There may be more competition for jobs in your occupation when you arrive in Australia given the year that we’ve had. This means you need to do what you can to stand out and ensure you not only have a killer resume and cover letter but that you’re also building personal relationships so that you’re already on the company’s radar when you put in your application (members of my Migration Mastermind membership community can watch the Get Job Ready Masterclass in the video library for tips and a free resume review from a career coach and LinkedIn professional).
You need to stand out both on paper and in person. If you aren’t sure how to do this, a career coach and resume writer is a wise investment.
Embrace the positives during uncertain times
It’s easier said than done, but if we embrace the uncertainty, go with the flow and look for the positives in everything (even if they’re sometimes hard to find), we’re more likely to thrive during challenging times.
Know that you’ve come through everything in your life to this point, and you’ll continue to get through it all regardless of what is thrown at you (now and in the future). It may take some courage, some creativity and a serious focus on gratitude, but it will all be fine. This year has been a reminder that we don’t control anything that happens in the world (even though we like to think we do!). We can plan all we like, but just be prepared for those plans to change and be open to new directions.
YOU WILL ALWAYS FIND A PATH AROUND OBSTACLES.
How is migration to Australia going to look in 2021 and beyond?
The truth is nobody knows with any certainty what the future of migration looks like, but Australia needs migrants to fill critical skills gaps and for the country’s continued growth. Migration WILL bounce back.
If you are dreaming of a future in Australia, don’t give up. It’s still a fantastic opportunity and there are things you can be doing to get ahead of the game so you’re ready to move forward when migration and travel begins again. Hopefully that won’t be too much longer!
Here’s wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and sending you best wishes for an incredible 2021.
