Tips for getting your first job in Belize

Hi,

What are your tips and advice for getting a first job in Belize?

What are the job hunting steps to follow? Where to look for offers: newspapers, Internet, recruitment agencies, word-of-mouth?

What are the top hiring sectors?

What would you recommend to young professionals wishing to start their career in Belize?

Thank you in advance for your participation!

First, I'm assuming you aren't a Belizean as you are posting on the Expat.com. 

If this is the case, then this question isn't easily answerable as there are several factors to consider.  The most important factor to consider is that you are unable to just come to Belize and get a job.  There are protected industries, such as tourism, where the jobs are saved for Belizeans. 

Also, it's mandatory to obtain a work permit before starting any employment, including being self-employed.  You are able to come and start a business and run it as long as all work is completed by a Belizean.  If you are being hired for a position, such as in the medical field, education, your employer is responsible for obtaining the work permit after proving they would be unable to fill the position with a Belizean.

I realize this doesn't specifically answer your questions but the answers aren't quite as black and white.

Now, to answer one of your questions - all other items being satisfied, you can obtain job postings in the national newspaper, The Amandala, or you can look online via facebook.  Belize Telemedia Limited, BTL, the national phone company, has an online phonebook and you can do your cold calls to companies using the phone listings.

Hope this helps.