From Ukraine to the UK: How Job Searching Has Changed Over a Decade
2022: A New Chapter in the United Kingdom
In 2022, I moved to the UK and encountered an entirely different job market than I was used to. Unlike in Ukraine, where switching jobs felt straightforward, job searching in the UK is a more mature, structured, and, at times, slower process. Here, the market feels older - like an established system that requires careful navigation.
Fortunately, I had already built a connection with EyeSpy360, a company I worked with remotely before moving to the UK. They knew me and my skills, which made the transition smoother and gave me an opportunity to continue contributing to a team that aligned with my professional goals. This experience highlighted the importance of building relationships and maintaining a strong reputation, as they can make all the difference when navigating a new job market.
The Importance of Building Your Personal Brand
What I learned quickly is that in the UK, simply having technical skills isn't enough. The job market values a strong personal brand, which means:
Having a Professional LinkedIn Page
Your LinkedIn profile is like your online résumé. A well-crafted profile, endorsements, and connections are essential.Writing a Blog or Sharing Insights
Sharing your knowledge and experience through articles, blogs, or posts can demonstrate your expertise and make you stand out.Showcasing Your Work
Whether through GitHub, public projects, or technical presentations, having a portfolio of work that hiring managers can see is vital.Networking and Performance
Attending events, conferences, or meetups can help you connect with industry professionals. It's not just about what you know but also who knows you.
From Kherson to Kyiv to the UK, my career journey has been shaped by the evolving nature of the job search process. Each phase brought its own unique challenges and valuable lessons.
Interestingly, the job market in Ukraine has also matured over the years. It's like watching a baby grow into an adult. In the past, being a good colleague or a "nice mate" was often enough to land a job. But today, you need to be more than that - you must be an influencer in your field, with a strong network and visible contributions.
This evolution mirrors our professional growth. Just as our markets mature, so do we as individuals and professionals. I hope my story resonates with others navigating the ever-changing world of work, especially those transitioning to a new country or adapting to new market expectations.
Final Thoughts
In my work, I'm passionate about sharing skills and supporting others in their career journeys. If you need help, my colleagues and I manage a Telegram channel where we share practice tasks, interview tips, and strategies, and discuss IT career challenges. Whether you're preparing for an interview, looking for advice, or just want to chat about the IT world, we're here to help.
Let's connect and share experiences - I'd love to hear your stories too!
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