Soft Landing NZ

By Brett Corlett | Soft Landing Podcast – Episode 16

Introduction

If you’ve been applying for jobs in New Zealand and struggling to even get an interview, you’re not alone. In this blog, I want to share some powerful insights from my conversation with Andre Cronje, a GM here in New Zealand, who gave honest, practical advice on what employers are really looking for and how you can stand out in today’s tough job market.

🎯 Why It’s So Hard to Get Noticed

The New Zealand job market is flooded with candidates right now, many of them locals who are already here and ready to start immediately. That makes it much harder for migrants to get a foot in the door. Employers are sifting through hundreds of applications, so if yours doesn’t stand out in the first 30 seconds, chances are it won’t get a second look.

📝 The Power of a Targeted CV

One of Andre’s biggest tips was this: generic CVs don’t work. You need to tailor your CV for every role, highlight your achievements in a way that aligns with the job description, and make it clear what value you’ll bring to that specific employer. Focus on measurable outcomes, employers want to see proof that you can deliver results.

📚 Stack Your Skills on Your CV

Andre also highlighted the importance of stacking your skills. That means showcasing not just your core expertise, but the combination of different skills you bring together. For example, you might be a software engineer, but if you also have strong communication skills, experience mentoring others, or domain knowledge in a specific industry, highlight that. Employers love to see how your unique mix of skills adds extra value beyond the job description.

💡 Standing Out in the Interview

Getting an interview is just the first hurdle. Once you’re there, Andre recommends focusing on storytelling, sharing real examples of challenges you’ve faced, how you solved them, and what the outcome was. Employers are not just hiring skills, they’re hiring mindset, resilience, and cultural fit.

🤝 Networking is Everything

In New Zealand, a huge number of jobs are never advertised. They’re filled through networks and referrals. That means building connections is essential, whether it’s through LinkedIn, industry events, or even community groups. The more you connect, the more likely someone will recommend you or share an opportunity before it goes public.

📌 My Takeaways for You

Talking with Andre reminded me that while the job market is tough, it’s not impossible. If you can sharpen your CV, improve your interview skills, and actively build your network, you’ll dramatically improve your chances of landing that job.

✨ Final Thoughts

Immigrating is never easy, and finding work is often the hardest part. But with the right strategy and mindset, you can stand out and secure the opportunities you’re looking for. Keep going—you’ve got this.

🎧 Listen to Episode 16 – How do I get a job interview in New Zealand? Interview with Andre Cronje

👉 If you found this useful, check out my full podcast conversation with Andre Cronje for even more insights.

➡️ https://youtu.be/z9ygrlSpdjM

📢 Stay Connected

I’d love your help.
The Inner Circle App is coming soon — a free space for migrants to connect, learn, and belong in New Zealand. We’d love your input! Help us shape it so it truly supports your needs.

https://forms.gle/FuTEd7cMwv7jzSK56

Follow my Soft Landing podcast and subscribe to my YouTube channel @softlandingnz for real stories, walkthroughs, and practical tips for newcomers to New Zealand. 
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