Spain is a popular destination for expats and international job seekers, with a thriving economy and a high quality of life. Additionally, Spain’s new employment record indicates that the current job market in the country is in very good health. According to INE, there’s greater stability in the labor market and 376,600 new jobs have been created.
While this is all exciting news, navigating the Spanish job market as an expat can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the country’s customs and requirements.
This article provides a guide for expats and international job seekers on how to increase their chances of success in the Spanish job market.
Brief overview of the key industries for job opportunities in Spain
In the Spanish job market, the service sector is the dominant force and accounts for a significant portion of the country’s GDP. Some of the major industries actively seeking skilled workers are:
- Tourism & hospitality – The tourism sector in Spain is a major economic driver because this country is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. The demand for tourism may have been affected due to the pandemic but the industry is bouncing back. There’s abundant roles in marketing, hospitality management, and customer service.
- Information Technology (IT) – The demand for digital skills has significantly increased. From software development to cybersecurity, roles in the tech industry offer long-term growth, especially in cities like Barcelona and Madrid.
- Renewable energy – Spain was one of Europe’s renewable energy pioneers and this sector has been responsible for creating more than 130,000 jobs. As the country shifts towards sustainable practices, the renewable energy sector is expanding and providing more job opportunities in research, engineering, and environmental consultancy.
- Healthcare and education – Healthcare roles are in high demand, especially after the pandemic. There are also plenty of positions in education, including English language teaching roles, which are ideal for English-speaking expats.
Other industries actively seeking skilled workers are transport and logistics, agriculture and food processing, infrastructure, banking, and business analysts.
In-demand skills
The skills that are highly sought-after by employers in Spain are:
- Spanish language skills – Fluency in Spanish is essential for working in Spain. Employers will strongly prefer candidates who can effectively communicate with clients, colleagues, and customers.
- Cultural awareness – Understanding Spanish business etiquette and culture is crucial for success in the workplace. This includes being familiar with communication styles, greetings, and work-life balance expectations.
- Technical skills – The specific technical skills required will vary depending on the industry and position. However, some general in-demand skills include project management, digital literacy, and data analysis.
- Adaptability – The ability to adapt to new situations and work effectively in a variety of environments is highly valued by Spanish employers.
- Problem-solving skills – Employers look for candidates who can think critically and find creative solutions to problems.
- Negotiation skills – Negotiation skills are critical for securing a competitive salary and benefits package.
How to tailor your CV for the Spanish job market?
A well-tailored CV is essential for landing an interview in Spain. When applying for Spanish jobs, it is essential to show employers your experience aligns with their specific job requirements. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Format: Spanish CVs typically follow a chronological format, listing work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent position.
- Length: Spanish CVs can be longer than their counterparts in other countries, often ranging from two to four pages.
- Photo: Including a professional headshot on your CV is common in Spain.
- Language skills: Clearly list your language skills, highlighting your proficiency in Spanish.
- Education: List your educational qualifications, including any relevant coursework or certifications.
- Work experience: Provide a detailed description of your work experience, including your responsibilities and achievements in each position. Quantify your achievements whenever possible using numbers or metrics. Make sure to highlight relevant experience that matches the role you are applying for.
- References: It is not customary to include references on your CV in Spain. However, you may be asked to provide them later in the application process.
Additionally, you can use tools like CVWizard to create a customized resume for the Spanish market. For better impact, you can also proofread and translate your CV into Spanish.
Additional tips for succeeding in the Spanish job market
- Network: Networking is an important part of finding a job in Spain. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with people on LinkedIn.
- Learn about Spanish work culture: Spanish work culture is more relaxed than in some other countries. However, it is still important to be professional and respectful.
- Be patient: The job search process in Spain can be slower than in other countries. Don’t get discouraged if it takes time to find a job.
Final thoughts: Achieve success in the Spanish job market!
Finding a job in Spain as an expat can be a fulfilling journey, but it requires an understanding of the country’s unique job market and cultural expectations. By focusing on in-demand industries like tourism, IT, and renewable energy and by aligning your CV with local standards, you can make a strong impression on Spanish employers.
