The United Kingdom is a leading global economy with one of the largest GDPs worldwide. It is also one of the most globalised economies and among the world’s largest foreign direct investors. Expats working in the UK will be part of a diverse workforce made up of people from all over the world. Opportunities for career advancement are good, and while the cost of living in the UK is high, salaries generally keep pace.

Job market in the UK

Laptop on table

The UK’s economy is primarily driven by its service sector, which accounts for more than 80 percent of total GDP and employment. Key areas within this sector include banking, insurance, and business services. The service sector has seen significant growth.

Manufacturing is still an important part of the UK economy. Key sectors within the manufacturing industry include food and drink, textiles, energy, and electronics.

The UK aerospace industry is a global leader and comprises over 3,000 companies, including major players like BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce and Airbus. The sector continues to press for innovation, particularly in sustainable aviation technologies like electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft.

The pharmaceutical industry in the UK is also prominent, and it includes major companies such as AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithKline.

Finding a job in the UK

Ideally, it is best to seek employment in person while in the UK, but expats will generally need a visa to enter the UK, and there is no visa specifically for job seeking. While it’s possible to enter on a visitor’s visa, you aren’t permitted to seek employment on this visa. 

To apply for a work visa, you will need to have a job offer in hand. Naturally, this creates something of a catch-22.

If you’re unable to look for work from within the UK, the best course of action is to contact British recruitment agencies relevant to your profession. Networking on websites such as LinkedIn and browsing job portals can also be helpful.

Work Permits for the UK

Useful links

Work culture in the UK

Meeting at a boardroom table

The British are typically reserved and pride themselves on good manners and behaviour. Business dealings are generally diplomatic, and everyone makes an effort to be considerate and polite. Communication is restrained, and directness is avoided, while evasive, cryptic and sometimes humorous statements are substituted for what’s actually meant. You’ll need to become adept at understanding these subtleties.

The business sphere is formal. Dress is conservative, punctuality is paramount and outward displays of emotion are considered distasteful.

Many businesses have moved towards a flatter, more egalitarian approach. As a result, responsibilities and hierarchies can sometimes be unclear, which can be frustrating if you’re used to explicit directives and a hierarchical work culture.

Business Culture in the UK

What do expats say about finding work in the UK?

"If you are looking for work here, my advice would be to talk to people. So many people I know here have found jobs through friends and acquaintances. Having transferable skills will count for a lot as well and be prepared to work as a temp for a while. Many offices prefer to trial people on a short-term basis before hiring them on as permanent staff."

For more insights from Allison, a Canadian living in Manchester, read her interview with Expat Arrivals about life in the UK.

Further reading

►For those planning on starting up their own business, Doing Business in the UK is essential reading.

►Work Permits for the UK provides an overview of the legal requirements for working in Britain.

Are you an expat living in The United Kingdom?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to The United Kingdom. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.