Working in Chile
Expats working in Chile will find themselves members of a growing economy, that managed to weather both the global financial crisis and a series of natural disasters in 2010. Inflation remains low, and statistics surrounding growth stay positive, and even exceed expectations put in place by institutions like the World Bank.
Chile is the fifth-largest South American economy, and is well known for its stability and free-market approach.
That said, the country is still faced with the challenge of diversifying its copper-dependent economy, and eliminating its glaring wealth inequality. The mineral-rich mines have long been the bedrock of the nation, but as the market continues to contract, the country must make a move to support other sectors.
In Santiago, the capital and commercial hub of Chile, signs of life stir in the financial, computer technology and electronics industry. The city accounts for nearly half of the country's economic output and is continuously asserting itself as an important South American trade centre. It comes as no surprise then, that large multinationals have set-up shop here, including HP, Intel, IBM, Yahoo and Microsoft.
Expats planning on working in Chile may find that a company transfer to one of these big business giants, or similar institutions, is the easiest way to find employment in the country. Among others, Coca-Cola and Nestle have also opened branches in Santiago. The financial and tourism sectors are also showing steady signs of growth, and have the potential to provide opportunities to eager expats.
Alternatively, many expats find work in Chile in the English language sector. Teaching jobs remain at a surplus, and there are no regulations surrounding certification for teachers in the local language institutes, though having CELTA or TEFL accreditation is always helpful. The best time to look for a job in this industry is in late February or early March; the most difficult time to find a job teaching English will be in December and January.
Those interested in teaching in the formal education sector will need a teaching degree.
Above all else though, expats working in Chile may be most taken aback by the long working hours. The Latin American lust for life doesn't stop locals from putting in well above the 45-hour work week required by law, one of the highest in the world. Productivity doesn't seem to be proportionately affected by time spent on the clock, but nonetheless the working day in Chile is typically long, and often coupled with a long commute.
Expats will need a work permit to be legally employed in Chile; achieved by means of a signed job contract.
If expats aren't already employed under the umbrella of one of the large multinationals, their best bet is to head to Santiago to find a job. Positions teaching English are plentiful, and can usually be found simply by arranging
meetings with academic coordinators at local institutes. If looking for more of a professional stepping stone, then the job-hunt may be more of a hassle than expected.
In Chile, connections (pitutos) are paramount. Personal relationships are used to get information and conduct business. It's often necessary to have a pituto help you get your foot in the door, and in many cases, job opportunities are not even published because the hiring party would rather depend on personal recommendations.
Large, reputable companies do publish available positions on their company website, on online listings or in the Sunday edition of 'El Mercurio', Chile's most respected newspaper.
Spanish is the official language in Chile, and though highly-skilled workers and mid-level managers will often speak English, having a knowledge of the local language can really open the door to more work opportunties.
Chile is the fifth-largest South American economy, and is well known for its stability and free-market approach.That said, the country is still faced with the challenge of diversifying its copper-dependent economy, and eliminating its glaring wealth inequality. The mineral-rich mines have long been the bedrock of the nation, but as the market continues to contract, the country must make a move to support other sectors.
In Santiago, the capital and commercial hub of Chile, signs of life stir in the financial, computer technology and electronics industry. The city accounts for nearly half of the country's economic output and is continuously asserting itself as an important South American trade centre. It comes as no surprise then, that large multinationals have set-up shop here, including HP, Intel, IBM, Yahoo and Microsoft.
Expats planning on working in Chile may find that a company transfer to one of these big business giants, or similar institutions, is the easiest way to find employment in the country. Among others, Coca-Cola and Nestle have also opened branches in Santiago. The financial and tourism sectors are also showing steady signs of growth, and have the potential to provide opportunities to eager expats.
Alternatively, many expats find work in Chile in the English language sector. Teaching jobs remain at a surplus, and there are no regulations surrounding certification for teachers in the local language institutes, though having CELTA or TEFL accreditation is always helpful. The best time to look for a job in this industry is in late February or early March; the most difficult time to find a job teaching English will be in December and January.
Those interested in teaching in the formal education sector will need a teaching degree.
Above all else though, expats working in Chile may be most taken aback by the long working hours. The Latin American lust for life doesn't stop locals from putting in well above the 45-hour work week required by law, one of the highest in the world. Productivity doesn't seem to be proportionately affected by time spent on the clock, but nonetheless the working day in Chile is typically long, and often coupled with a long commute.
Expats will need a work permit to be legally employed in Chile; achieved by means of a signed job contract.
Finding a job in Chile
If expats aren't already employed under the umbrella of one of the large multinationals, their best bet is to head to Santiago to find a job. Positions teaching English are plentiful, and can usually be found simply by arranging
meetings with academic coordinators at local institutes. If looking for more of a professional stepping stone, then the job-hunt may be more of a hassle than expected.In Chile, connections (pitutos) are paramount. Personal relationships are used to get information and conduct business. It's often necessary to have a pituto help you get your foot in the door, and in many cases, job opportunities are not even published because the hiring party would rather depend on personal recommendations.
Large, reputable companies do publish available positions on their company website, on online listings or in the Sunday edition of 'El Mercurio', Chile's most respected newspaper.
Spanish is the official language in Chile, and though highly-skilled workers and mid-level managers will often speak English, having a knowledge of the local language can really open the door to more work opportunties.
Business Etiquette in Chile
- Business meetings in Chile are initially formal, marked by a firm handshake, slight small-talk and the exchange of business cards; but then become increasingly personal as the relationship progresses. Eventually a kiss on the cheek and friendly chatter about off-topic issues is expected.
- Address clients and colleagues by their titles and surnames, unless otherwise directed.
- Business cards should contain information in both English and Spanish.
- Visitors should re-confirm appointments before arriving at a meeting. While expats will be expected to be on time for meetings, the host can often by late be 15-30 minutes.
- Chileans tend to stand very close when conversing and it is impolite to pull away.
- Do not expect prompt responses to messages left by mail, phone or fax. Many Chileans will only provide an answer when a definite decision needs to be made.
- Chileans are accomplished procrastinators. Though they work painfully long hours, many tasks are left until the last minute; it is a good idea to follow up on orders and arrangements.
- Heirarchy and position are important in Chile. It is not common for employees of different levels to associate. Be sure to speak formally to those in senior positions (use the formal version of "you" - 'usted' - rather than "tu").
- Business hours typically run 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, with a two-hour siesta over lunch.
