Job Hunting on Mallorca

Job hunting in Mallorca is like heading into the abyss. With hundreds of websites and social media pages promising golden opportunities, it’s hard to know where to begin. For many of us the risk of moving, without securing work, can seem incredibly daunting (and a little mad!). However, this is sometimes the best bet, in terms of finding what’s out there. I did it – and you can do it, too.

It's All About Flexibility #

I came abroad at the age of 18 (and I never left), and like many others, I found myself working within the travel industry. In the following years most of my jobs have found me, through talking to people and networking I’ve dabbled in performing, teaching and writing- it’s been fabulous! Although I’ve been very lucky, the constant career changes can make the future appear uncertain, and sometimes leaves you feeling envious of those who have the 9-5 lifestyle.

The reality is that in Mallorca, a 9-5 lifestyle is almost non-existent. The demands and needs of the country are different to those of the UK or America. Finance and business are not the main means of earning income; travel, tourism, property, and yachting account for a large percentage of employment. The nature of these industries means that hours are varied and positions are changeable, so working in Mallorca is all about flexibility.

There are websites out there offering some guidance and support when it comes to working in Mallorca. Large job listing sites like Glassdoor allow you to run specific searches based on your location and interests. The site also holds background information and employee reviews of each company, so you can make an informed decision before you apply for anything.

Travel and Tourism #

No matter where you go in Mallorca, you can guarantee that there will be tourists. The world of travel and tourism provides many good job opportunities in a variety of different forms. From tour guides, to bar owners, singers to sellers- when we go on holiday, we like to see the best of the best! This sector is a great place to start when hunting for jobs on the island, as it is less reliant on the need to speak the local language, and can play to your strengths- depending on your skill set.

Real Estate #

Across the world people are hunting for their perfect property, and that certainly rings true here in Mallorca. Whether it be starting a new life, finding a holiday home in the sun or looking to retire in a peaceful location - Mallorca has captured the hearts of many people. Working in real estate allows you to become a real-life Fairy Godmother, helping people on their quest to find their dream home!

When you put it like that, the job sounds idyllic, but it’s not without its trials and tribulations. To successfully work within this field, a minimum of two languages (English and Spanish or German and Spanish) are required, and any additional languages are advantageous. This job is not just about working with the customer, it’s about creating a harmonious relationship with the property owner, too. Your local knowledge of the area must be impeccable, and you will certainly need to be able to drive and have access to a car.

Real estate positions will allow you to find work all year round, although your hours will be long and varied, and you may be expected to work weekends. However, this job is particularly sociable, and you will get to travel around and meet many different people, allowing for networking opportunities and blossoming friendships. The ability to travel means that you will really see the true beauty of Mallorca, and you’ll continue to discover and unveil some of its best kept secrets.

Language Teaching #

When you first arrive in Mallorca, and your Spanish is still in its fledgling stages, language teaching can offer a perfect solution. By exchanging your skills as a native speaker of another language, in return for daily exposure to Spanish- you’ll be amazed how quickly you learn. Both English and German are of equal importance here in Mallorca, due to the large influx of tourists that the country receives each year. You will find an abundance of Language academies offering a range of TEFL, CELTA and TESOL based courses in English, Spanish and German.

Unlike teaching in the UK, you must be prepared to work long hours, as many adults and children attend these language classes outside of work or school time, so days begin relatively early and end rather late. Although this opportunity won’t bring home an awful lot of money, it does allow you to meet some rather exceptional people, from many walks of life; as well as incredibly studious and dedicated children. Children are encouraged to speak a second or third language from as young as three years old, and with the incredible diversity of various cultures here in Mallorca, many children are already raised in bilingual homes- it’s rather fabulous!

As a stepping stone to get where you need to be, or for those of you who have a passion for sharing knowledge and enriching the minds of others- this could be the job for you!

Freelancing #

The ability to work where you want, and when, certainly has a large appeal to it! Freelancing allows you to work with international clients, from whichever base you choose, and why wouldn’t you choose Mallorca!

Coworking spaces are becoming increasingly popular across the country, and they allow you to work in an office style environment, but with people from hundreds of different companies. This fresh and diverse approach to office life, removes the constraints and dullness of working in the same place with the same people each day. Many coworking spaces offer a variety of options at different monthly costs, to ensure you can tailor your working experience to suit you. Whether it be shared working, just spending a few days a week in the space, or hiring a private office- they’ve got you covered!

Freelancing doesn’t suit every job, but for those of you who work digitally it can be the perfect option. Whether you choose to work from the comfort of your home, or the little bar on the corner that serves brilliant tapas (although you’re just there for the WIFI, aren’t you?) working in Mallorca is a brilliant choice!

Becoming A Business Owner #

No matter where you choose to start your business, it’s a brave decision that is not without risks! However, if the risks pay off then you could have a dream job in a dream location, and that is certainly worth it!

Mallorca relies on tourism for many things, and so a bar or restaurant is often the first thought that springs to people’s minds. The growth of all-inclusive holidays has killed off many businesses over the last few years, however the island's Government is trying to reduce the number of all-inclusive hotels in different areas, and encourage tourists to experience local life.

With any business it is about knowing your location, ensuring that you are somewhere easily accessible and visible to tourists. Businesses that are tucked away in side streets will struggle, as only a few tourists will veer from the main walkways and hot spots. You must also ensure that there is a gap in the market for your venture. Research your area and see what it’s missing, what nationalities are drawn to this area, and what would they like. If your target audience are local residents, then ensure you speak the language- conversation and word of mouth is key!

Marketing and social media are also essential when establishing yourself. A poor online presence will mean that you sit under the radar; if people can’t Instagram their food and tag your restaurant in their post- do you even exist?! The importance of being online is essential, and it also opens up a wealth of international clients. Maybe they will see your product or business premises and place and orderBy or pay you a visit. As with any job, networking is the magic word!

The cost of leasing property, and hiring staff must also be factored in. Mallorca recently raised their minimum wage, meaning that employees on 12-months contracts must earn a minimum of 1,050 € per month. The law stipulates that no employee can work over nine hours in row, and they must have a minimum of twelve hours rest between working days. Of course, your business must be registered, and you must set yourself up as Autónomo in orderBy to file your tax returns. If you offer food and drink services, there are also other regulations in terms of safety and hygiene that you must abide by…

A lot to think about …

Exciting times ahead!

DISCLAIMER: All information contained in this article is based on personal experience and opinion and may change due to changing laws and regulations.