Expert: Robert Clark - 3/18/2009

Question
Hi Robert,
Thanks for taking the time to answer my question.  I read through the FAQ section about gaining employment and have a few specific questions regarding the hospitality field.  I am a U.S. citizen and I have worked as a bartender for over 7 years and have worked for the resort company Club Med for the last three.  So I have suitable experience behind the bar.  My question is how easy is it to get a job working behind a bar in Grand Cayman whether at a resort, hotel, or plain bar?  I know the work visa requirements are strict about hiring foreigners to fill positions that can be filled locally, but then I have also heard that food and beverage jobs are some of the more easy ones to secure.  And the second part of the question is what resources should I use to find businesses looking for help?  Is it simply going through the yellow pages and contacting places about openings or is there a classifieds with advertised positions?  Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions and I look foward to your response.

Thanks,
Jeff

Answer
Jeff
Thanks for taking the time to check the FAQ - many people don't!

Certainly the hospitality industry is probably easier to get in, but many of the staff are only on short-term contracts for the peak tourist season.  It also means that the employer can apply for a short-term (temporary) work permit which is cheaper.  

I think you should take two approaches - check the online telephone directories/yellow pages and contact some of the hotels/resorts/restaurants directly.  You should also check out the two newspapers Cayman Compass and Cayman Net News, especially the Friday editions that have most classified adverts.  Cayman Net News can be read online which may be easier for you.

Good luck!

Robert