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Working in the UK having your experience in another EU country

Ana Diaz

Hi everyone!

I wanted to share my experience since I moved to the UK (a year ago)

I was working as an HR Manager in Spain and prior to that, I worked as an HR Advisor and as an HR Coordinator and Assistant. In total, I have 5 years of experience in the field. I have been struggling to find a job in HR in the UK. Either I'm too prepared for the role or I don't have experience in a UK office (these are the feedbacks I always get).

Because the situation was really frustrating, I decided to start the CIPD Level 7 Certificate in HRM.

To be honest with all of you, I'm feeling a little bit concern about my career, because I've been out of the HR world for almost a year. I completely understand that is a new country-new playground reality, but, how come is this hard to even find a job in an entry-level position as a European?

Is this usual? I would really appreciate some advice.  

Many thanks!

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  • Welcome to the communities and good luck in your search, a few random thoughts.

    1) In the 5 years you were in HR in Spain you did either 3 or 4 jobs at different levels. That shows rapid progression but it also risks confusing recruiters and them wondering exactly who/what you are. I would have different CVs highlighting at best the level of role you are applying for and one step up (not 2 or 3)

    2) Have you applied to many / any companies with a presence in Spain or where your Spanish experience will be a positive advantage?

    3) You need to be careful with the L7 qualification. If you are getting feedback that you are already too senior/experienced for the role then how will they view you with a L7? If you are going for Adviser level roles then it would be less confusing to have a L5 (and I know it might just be box ticking)
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  • Welcome to the communities and good luck in your search, a few random thoughts.

    1) In the 5 years you were in HR in Spain you did either 3 or 4 jobs at different levels. That shows rapid progression but it also risks confusing recruiters and them wondering exactly who/what you are. I would have different CVs highlighting at best the level of role you are applying for and one step up (not 2 or 3)

    2) Have you applied to many / any companies with a presence in Spain or where your Spanish experience will be a positive advantage?

    3) You need to be careful with the L7 qualification. If you are getting feedback that you are already too senior/experienced for the role then how will they view you with a L7? If you are going for Adviser level roles then it would be less confusing to have a L5 (and I know it might just be box ticking)
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  • in reply to Keith
    Hello Keith,

    Thanks for sharing your thoughts and for the kind welcome.
    I did 3 jobs at different levels back in Spain. Your idea about the CVs is a good one, I think I will give it a try. At the moment, I have a CV with all my experience (3 steps)
    I always try to look for Spanish companies with a presence in the UK or for HR-related jobs where my mother tongue is a requirement. There are not as many as I would like to, but is true that currently I'm shortlisted in a process (fingers crossed)

    Regarding the L7, I asked for advice. In Spain is not so common to study a CIPD and when I moved here, I realised that almost every single company ask for it. They advised me L7 because of my experience and my Bachelors Degree in HR and Labour Relations. I know L5 will be box-ticking, but I see your point now. It makes sense. Although I should say I'm enjoying L7 so much, I'm learning a lot about organizational design.