Expat Advice: Working in Florence, Italy

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Florence

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

Tourism, tourism, tourism.

Florence is based on the tourist. At the beginning of the summer months tourism was down and I was in danger of losing my job. My boss had to cut back on my hours for a month because of the lack of tourists.

Career opportunities for outsiders would most likely be in the hotel industry. Working for one of the major hotels in the US first then trying to get transfered overseas is the best way to work the legal way.

What type of work do you do and how did you find your job?

I am a salesperson at the local outdoor market. It's not the most glamorous but it is paying the rent. I got my job through my roomate who works there as well.

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How did you obtain your work permit? What advice would you have for others about work permits?

I don't have a work permit. I wish I did but it's nearly impossible for someone who is not hired by a foreign company or is not a student to attain a work permit.

Have you taken language and cross-cultural training courses to prepare for your assignment? If so, how have they helped you on the job?

I enrolled in a month long Italian class that helped quite a bit. For me, the best way to learn the language has been to live day to day here. Just going to the market or seeing a movie is the best way to learn how the locals speak.

What advice would you offer others about finding jobs and working abroad?

If you can, get hired by an Italian company or find any other way to attain a work permit before getting here because it will make your life 100% easier.