Career Advice and Tips on Working in the UK
Our consultants are here to help you. In the links above, we have included some of our top tips on CV writing and interview techniques, to give you a competitive edge. If you would like any further advice on any other aspect of your employment search, your consultant will be delighted to help, so please don’t hesitate to call.
Living and work in London
London is a big place and it can be difficult to find your way around at first. It’s a good idea to get yourself a tube and train map (both available from local rail and underground stations) so that you can familiarise yourself with transport links. You might also like to use a few specialist websites to help you check commuting times and distances and the best way to travel from A to B – which can sometimes be on foot! Distances between underground stations can be surprisingly short.
http://www.nationalrailenquiries.co.uk/
Opening a UK Bank Account
Opening a UK bank account is essential as most companies will pay you directly through this. Unfortunately opening a bank account has become more difficult. It is not impossible but it can be a lengthy process. It is easier once you have a permanent job but you need to:
- Provide proof of identity: - you need to prove who you are and where you live
- Fill in an application form
- Pay some money into your account (however some banks let you do this later).
Usually, the best documents to prove your identity are:
- Your passport
- Your driving licence
- Your HM Revenue and Customs Tax Notification
- Your invitation letter from Jobcentre Plus or the Department for Work and Pensions to open a Post Office Card Account.
The best documents to prove your address are usually:
- A recent local authority tax bill
- A recent utility bill
- A bank, building society or credit union statement or passbook
- A recent original mortgage statement, a local council rent card or tenancy agreement.
Some banks are friendlier and more helpful than others, so shop around. Agencies and employers may also be able to advise you.
Further information and advice can be found at:
http://www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk/products_explained/opening_an_account.html
http://www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk/products_explained/savings.html
http://www.bba.org.uk/content/1/c4/58/03/proving_your_ID_2005.pdf (PDF document on providing your identity and opening an account)
Obtaining a National Insurance Number
Everyone working in the UK needs a National Insurance (NI) number. Some companies like you to have one before you start work, whilst others will be happy to employ you without one initially. Full information on the process of applying and obtaining an NI number can be found through the following link
http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/nic/ynino.htm
Visa Information
For up-to-date information about the regulations governing working in the UK:
www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk
