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Sofia


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How to look for work


Bulgarian Job Market

Expats who have permanent residence status can easily qualify for any job they are offered in the same way as Bulgarians. Starting a job involves issuance of a working permit which is applied for by the employer and must be renewed on an annual basis.
The application and interview process is similar to those used in the UK. The working week is usually 40 hours, and daily work is 8 hours or more, with an additional hour for a lunch break.
In most jobs, Bulgarian is required. However, in jobs such as teaching and IT, fluent English is preferred. Another great job option for expats is to look for a job in tourism since it is a developing job market in the country, especially in Sofia.

CVs in Bulgaria

The first information a Bulgarian employer will want to see is your CV (curriculum vitae) - an in depth look at your work and educational experience that should not be longer than two pages.

Layout of CVs in Bulgaria

Your CV should contain the following information about you:

Tips for Submitting a CV in Bulgaria

Cover Letters for Bulgaria

A cover letter usually accompanies a CV in a job application. In the format of a letter, it establishes your tone and intent.

Format of Bulgarian Cover Letter

Job Search in Sofia

Job Search Engines in Bulgaria

Search engines allow you to scan a great variety of jobs, and narrow down your search on certain criteria. It is also a good idea to post your CV online so hiring managers can find you. You can also sign up for e-mail alerts to be notified when jobs are available.
The following are the biggest search engines available in English:
Job websites for Sofia:

EURES

As part of the EU, job seekers can access the European job mobility portal EURES. This resource provides information about job vacancies and the labor market. It also provides information on the living and working conditions, and a CV posting service.

EURAXESS

EURAXESS is an international initiative that supports European and non-European researchers hoping to find research careers in Europe. Available research positions are posted online.

Newspapers

Several papers have a helpful classifieds section. There are job offers for executives and professionals, as well as sections dedicated to specific professions, like teaching, computers, and media.
These include:

Recruitment Agencies in Bulgaria

Most agencies specialize in a particular field, such as computers, nursing, secretarial work, accounting, catering, or construction. There are also "Head hunting" agencies that are hired by large companies to recruit executives, managers or professionals. To find an appropriate agency, look for "employment agencies" in the yellow pages or go to a directory of agencies.

Recruitment agencies in Bulgaria:

Career Fairs in Bulgaria

Career fairs are an excellent way to find out about available jobs and opportunities. There are usually a large variety of employers you can visit in one day and apply. Entrance is usually free, but registering online might be encouraged. Bring your resume and dress to impress as there may be interviews on the spot.
You can also try going to career fairs in your home country that specialize in jobs abroad.

Networking in Bulgaria

Sometimes getting a job is about knowing the right people. Talk to friends, family, and business contacts to see if they have connections in the area you would like to work. Expat events can also be a great way to find out how other expats found work and see if their company has any openings. Use social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Linkedln or expat forums.

Teaching English in Bulgaria

English-speaking expats are in high demand for teaching English. Language schools in Bulgaria recognize TEFL or other teaching certifications. You must have adequate visa clearance and registration. Most schools will supply you the intent to employ so you can secure a visa.

Most schools will supply you the intent to employ so you can secure a visa.

Find a School to Teach English in Sofia

The easiest way to get started teaching English is to find a school. The best situations are companies that pay adequately and aid in getting visa paperwork completed. These positions may be difficult to come by and there is fierce competition for the best.

Applicants usually submit their resume and application, and if the school approves, the applicant will be asked for an interview. The interview may consist of a sample lesson or a grammar test. Some schools will throw teachers right in for a 90 minute class where the school observes and either offers the job, or does not.
It is common for new teachers to only receive a few classes at first. If they are able to prove themselves reliable and are able to handle a class, they will gradually be given more classes. Some teachers work at two schools or also give private lessons.

Teaching in the state sector is the most lucrative strain of teaching. These jobs are hard to come by without experience and the best qualifications. These positions offer the paid holidays, excellent salary, and a good pension.

Teach Private English Classes in Bulgaria

It is also an option to give private lessons. These are usually more profitable per hour, but require a lot more work finding customers. The best way to get private students is to post advertisements in business newspapers, on bulletin boards, or offer your resume on expat site's like Easy Expat's Job Listings. Having basic native language skills will help expand your clientele as you can then work with beginners.

Teaching Certificates

TESOL (also known as TEFL) is the acronym for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. A TESOL certificate is the most common qualification required to teach English abroad. There are a wide variety of TESOL courses available, ranging from 4-week intensive, classroom based TESOL courses with TEFL International, to TESOL courses studied online. It is even possible to combine a period of online study with a shorter classroom based course. In addition to standard TESOL certificate courses there are also more specialized courses such as courses for teaching business English, or teaching English to young learners. There is also the more advanced TESOL diploma course.

Interviewing in Bulgaria

Interviews are a chance for a company to get to know you before hiring you. Research the company before the interview to discover their missions and direction. It is common for there to be a series of interviews, with the first lasting 30-60 min, and further meetings possibly taking an entire day.

Temporary Agencies in Sofia

If you are in need of short term work of any kind, there are agencies that will find you employment with another company. Jobs may consist of office work, babysitting, gardening, security or any other types of work. They will try to fit with occupations that fit your skill set. As an added bonus, sometimes short term work can lead to longer contract.

Work Visas & Permits in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a member of the EU therefore citizens of the EU and European Economic Area do not require a working visa. Those coming from countries outside the EU will need to obtain both a residence permit and a work permit.

Please refer to "Passport & Visa" section of the guide for full details.


6/06/2018

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