How to Find a Job in Italy for English Speakers
It’s no secret that finding a job in Southern Europe is no easy task these days– even people from here are struggling. And if you’re an English speaker moving to Italy, you’ve got an added handicap to your job hunt.
So, what jobs are even out there for anglophones? Well, we recommend starting your job hunt here!
1. Teach English
I know, I know. English teaching is always the first thing people mention when moving abroad.
It’s not always the ideal option, nor the one you want. But hell, native English speakers can ALWAYS find jobs teaching English, especially in Italy and other countries in Southern Europe. Most people, myself included, will teach English for at least a time. It’s a surefire way to get on your feet.
So, where should you look for that first gig? Get in touch with academies, daycares, afterschool programs, or even go autonomous and set up your own private classes. Keep in mind that teaching English in Italy might only be an option during the school semester – English teachers usually find themselves a job in a camp for the summer.
It’s not for everyone, but by Jove, there’s always money in that racket in Southern Europe.
2. Check out startups
One of the good things about our globalized economy is that it’s full of plenty of startup companies, many of which use English as their primary operating language. Hit the internet, and do a search for startups around you!
It might be a long shot, but you never know what you might find. LinkedIn is particularly good for this sort of job search, as is this list of Italian startups.
3. In fact, go for anything international
The more globalized the company, the better your odds will be for finding English work. Go for the big names, like FIAT or Ferrero, and put out a CV. Don’t forget to check with Spotahome – while we’re based in Madrid, we use local photographers and videographers to give tours of our apartments. If you have a passion for making videos, this is definitely your perfect gig. After all, what do you have to lose?
Top tip: Working for an international company looks amazing on your CV!
4. Tourism
Hotels, hostels, restaurants, tour operators, and other service-based industries are always in need of native English speakers. Even better if you’re in a big popular place like Rome or Milan where speaking English is an added bonus to your CV. You might need to brush up on your Italian, but you’d be surprised how valued English is for tourism.
Top tip: To find a job for English speakers in tourism, make sure you start your job hunt during off season. Go door to door and ask around – many will be happy to help you out.
5. Freelancing
Why not go rogue? If you have a marketable skill such as writing, graphic design, website design, or the like, you may find that freelancing is not only the answer to your financial problems, but also a fulfilling way to make your own living.
Having done this personally, I have to say that being your own boss is a pretty sweet deal. No alarm clock in the morning is a nice bonus!
Freelancing sites to check out:
6. Get a few languages under your belt
The fact of the matter is that if you’re in Italy, you will likely be competing for a job. With, like, everyone. To up your odds, learn another language.
And it’s not just about making yourself more marketable. With an extra language– or two– you could start doing translation or interpretation work.
All it takes is time and practice, and lots of it– but is it really any different from learning to do anything else in life? As a polyglot myself, I say no. And what’s even better is that you’ll be working on a personal betterment project at the same time. Two birds with one stone!
How to learn Italian fast:
- Do an intense course when in Italy.
- Speak with locals at any chance you get – don’t worry about mistakes!
- Use Duolingo to expand your vocabulary.
- Read books and websites in Italian – start with simple things.
And that’s it!
Whatever path you choose, learning Italian and increasing your specialization will take you far when looking for an English speaking job in Italy. Keep your head up, put on your most positive outlook, and hit the bricks!
Moving to Italy? Find your new home in Rome and Milan with Spotahome.