The prospect of working in Edinburgh attracts professionals from across the UK and beyond, all seeking work in one of the city's strong industries. With a GDP second only to London's, Edinburgh continues to be highly sought after by professionals eager to start a business or take their career to the next level.
Several of Edinburgh's key industries include financial and business services, renewable energy, electronic technology, and a highly successful life sciences sector.
Job market in Edinburgh
Two of the city's major employers are the University of Edinburgh and the Royal Bank of Scotland, so expats with applicable skills and experience would do well to start their search here. These two entities not only provide opportunities but also paint an accurate picture of an Edinburgh economy that takes pride in its financial services and education sectors.
The city's science and technology sector is also quite robust and has the potential to attract highly skilled foreign nationals interested in working in Edinburgh.
On the other end of the spectrum is a thriving tourism and hospitality industry, along with a selection of creative industries that hinge on the annual Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Though formal positions in these sectors may be limited, there are many informal jobs that appeal to younger, less experienced expats seeking a cultural experience rather than a leg up on the career ladder.
Finding a job in Edinburgh
Most expats relocating to Edinburgh for work purposes arrive with a job in hand, and we recommend doing the same if possible. Those who arrive in Edinburgh still on the hunt for a job should keep tabs on the recruitment pages and the business news in the Scottish press. Recruitment agencies, social networking sites and online job portals may also help find work.
Networking is important, and making connections through professional platforms such as LinkedIn can boost an expat's chances of being noticed.
Useful links
Work culture in Edinburgh
Scots are known for their sharp wit, and expats will likely experience some of this in the workplace too. That said, it's usually good-natured and business dealings are incredibly diplomatic, with maximum effort directed at remaining considerate and civil.
Individualism is highly valued in Britain, including Scotland, so expats should anticipate working among competitive and ambitious colleagues. Experience and performance are the foundations for advancement in the working world, and those in management positions tend to be well rounded.
A traditional hierarchy is still important in business, even though it's moved towards a more egalitarian approach, where positions are more or less parallel rather than existing below or above one another.