Expert: Sandra - 7/17/2009

Question
Hello Sandra,

I am 39 years old male, speak English fluent, German fluent and Portg. fair.
I have over 10 years managerial experience for global companies in the United States backed with a MBA in business. I am planing to move to Brazil and work there for a company. I am willing to pay a headhunting company what ever it takes to find me a job in Brasil.

What is your opinion ?

Thank you for your time and consideration

Nima

Answer
It is very difficult, if not impossible, for a foreigner to get a job in Brazil, despite his/her qualifications. And even more difficult to get a work visa to work legally, since there are so many well-trained, but under- or unemployed Brazilians competing for the relatively poor salaries. I would not risk moving to Brazil without having a job, but finding one might be easier while in the country. Most recruiters/headhunters are reported to be ineffective, whereas personal connections are the most important factor in Brazil in getting anything done, including finding a job. Employers are more comfortable hiring someone who is known to them, even through a second party. If you have any connections in Brazil with whom to network, that might produce better results for you. You might also take a look at the forum on the expat site www.gringoes.com to see who among the members has found work with a Brazilian company, who has used a headhunter with what result, who works for a foreign company in Brazil, etc.  However, your best hope might be to contact a U.S. company with an office somewhere in Brazil and try to get a job that way. Best of luck.