Taiwan is a thriving economy that has a lot of job opportunities for foreigners. However, before considering working in Taiwan, it is important to understand the job market, the workplace culture, and the typical job application process. In this article, we will explore these aspects of finding employment in Taiwan.
Overview of the Job Market in Taiwan
Taiwan has a strong and stable economy, with a diverse range of industries. The major sectors that provide employment opportunities in Taiwan are technology, manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The country has a high demand for foreign workers, particularly in the technology sector, due to the shortage of skilled workers in the country.
The minimum wage in Taiwan is NT$24,000 per month (approximately $850 USD), and most workers receive 12 months of salary per year. The working hours in Taiwan are typically 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. Overtime is common in certain industries, and employees are entitled to overtime pay.
Workplace Culture in Taiwan
The workplace culture in Taiwan is hierarchical, with a strong emphasis on respect for authority. It is important to address colleagues and superiors by their formal titles, such as “manager” or “director,” rather than their first names. The work ethic is strong, and punctuality is expected.
In terms of language requirements, Mandarin Chinese is the official language of Taiwan. Although many companies conduct business in English, knowledge of Mandarin is an asset in most industries. Taiwanese employers may require proof of language proficiency, such as a TOEIC or TOEFL score for English or a HSK score for Mandarin.
Major Recruitment Agencies and Job Sites in Taiwan
There are several major recruitment agencies and job sites in Taiwan that can help job seekers find employment. Here are some of the most popular ones:
1. 104 Job Bank
104 Job Bank is one of the largest job sites in Taiwan, with over 2 million job postings. The website has an English language version and allows users to search for jobs by industry, location, and job type.
Website: https://www.104.com.tw/en/
2. TaiwanJobs
TaiwanJobs is a popular job site that caters to foreigners seeking employment in Taiwan. The website features job postings in various industries, including education, IT, and engineering.
Website: https://www.taiwanjobs.gov.tw/internet/index/index_eng.jsp
3. Adecco
Adecco is a global recruitment agency with a presence in Taiwan. The agency provides job opportunities in various industries, including finance, engineering, and IT.
Website: https://www.adecco.com.tw/
4. Manpower
Manpower is another global recruitment agency with a presence in Taiwan. The agency provides job opportunities in various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare.
Website: https://www.manpower.com.tw/en/
Typical CV Structure in Taiwan
The typical CV structure in Taiwan follows a similar format to other countries, but there are some cultural differences. Taiwanese CVs usually include a photograph of the applicant, as well as personal information such as age, marital status, and religion. It is also common to include a section on hobbies and interests.
Here is an example of a typical CV structure in Taiwan:
Personal Information
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Email address
- Date of birth
- Marital status
- Nationality
- Religion
Education
- List of degrees obtained, including the name of the institution and the date of graduation
- Relevant coursework or academic achievements
Work Experience
- List of previous job positions held, including the name of the company, job title, and dates of employment
- Description of job duties and accomplishments
Skills
- List of relevant skills, such as language proficiency, computer skills, or other certifications
Hobbies and Interests
- Description of personal hobbies and interests that may be relevant to the job
References
- List of professional references, including their name, job title, and contact information
It is important to note that the CV should be written in a professional and concise manner, with attention to detail and proper grammar and spelling.
Job Application Process in Taiwan
The job application process in Taiwan typically involves submitting a CV and cover letter, followed by an interview process. Some employers may also require additional documents, such as academic transcripts or proof of language proficiency.
In Taiwan, it is common for job interviews to be conducted in person, although some companies may conduct online or phone interviews. The interview process may include multiple rounds, with various members of the company interviewing the candidate.
After the interview process is complete, the employer will typically inform the candidate of their decision within a few days to a week. If the candidate is offered the job, they will receive a contract that outlines the terms and conditions of their employment.
Transferring Qualifications to Taiwan
If you are a foreign worker seeking employment in Taiwan, it may be necessary to transfer your qualifications to meet Taiwanese standards. This process is typically overseen by the Taiwan Accreditation Foundation (TAF) and the Ministry of Education.
To transfer your qualifications, you will need to submit an application and provide proof of your qualifications, such as academic transcripts or professional certifications. The TAF will then review your application and determine if your qualifications meet Taiwanese standards.
If your qualifications are approved, you may need to take additional exams or complete additional training to meet Taiwanese requirements. Once you have completed these steps, you will be issued a certificate that confirms your qualification in Taiwan.
Finding employment in Taiwan can be a rewarding experience for foreign workers. However, it is important to understand the job market, workplace culture, and job application process before beginning your search. By following the tips and resources outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of finding a job in Taiwan that is a good fit for your skills and experience.