Should I change my job search strategy?

[Collie86]

Hi all,

I'm currently overseas and I'm applying for remote jobs in my field (content marketing) in the UK. Sadly, the last few interviews I've had got me as far as the second round but I was out competed. I do have a casual role (freelance writing) but it's nowhere near enough.

I have about 8K savings which I could use to go back to the UK and look for work (just FYI - I'm a citizen, so I don't need a visa in case you were wondering).

I haven't gone with the second option because I feel it will be just as competitive when I'm there, perhaps more? Also I have no connections in the area I'm planning to move to (Surrey).

Should I stick with my current strategy of trying to get a remote role before I go back? or use my only savings to go and look for work in the country? I'm concerned my savings will run out while searching as I've read people are finding it difficult to get something within 1-3 months.

Thank you

Honestly I think the biggest thing holding you back is probably that currently you are looking for a fully remote role. In the UK at the moment in general there is a push for getting back into offices, back face to face, so there are going to be plenty more jobs you can apply for that are perhaps in person or even hybrid with part week office part week home

@Mrsttcno1
I'd need something ASAP if I returned then looked for work. It's the time/cost factor for me. I don't mind being in the office, only going for remote right now because I'm not there - but yeah, it's competitive for remote roles.

Edited to add: Is it possible to get an on-site/hybrid role within 1 month?

My sister's workplace can't offer remote work overseas because of various tax/employment rules, and actually they still have people applying as if they are going to move to the UK then later in the process asking to work from abroad... it's really frustrating.

Are you clear about which organisations can even offer overseas work? Are you asking before applying?

Other than that, I'm not sure that being there but then going back abroad will give you much advantage. I think job hunting just takes ages at the moment.

Just to be clear, are you planning to move to the UK anyway and just trying to get a role first? Or would you prefer to stay where you are?

@ILoveYourLittleHat

yes, all the remote jobs I go for are aware of where I am and they didn't have a problem with me being overseas, BUT they did get loads of applications as you can imagine. Made it to the first, sometimes second round, but got out competed.

As for returning to the UK - yes, I think it would take a while to get something even if I was in in the country, which is a concern because I don't have savings to last several months.

@ILoveYourLittleHat to answer your question, I plan to move back to the UK if I get a remote role form my (overseas location), but after a month of being in the new job, so I can show a potential landlord that I have finances to rent.

Ah I get you. I think it's a case of keep going... good luck!

@ILoveYourLittleHat thanks, I will ... feeling a bit helpless though. So second option is a no go then? I shouldn't go back and then look right? I mean I'm guessing it will be more of the same (competition etc.) but with lots of spending on temp accommodation while I wait to hear back. Thanks for the input.

It is possible, just totally depends on the company, the role, how much they need you.

We recently hired for hybrid roles and had start dates available for 2 weeks later if that worked for the applicant.

@Mrsttcno1 do you think it might be possible for admin/marketing roles? and for reference, I would be looking in the Surrey area.