To say the very least, the prospect of migrating to another country and starting a new life is intimidating. Perhaps there are language barriers to overcome, cultural differences to navigate, a job search to begin or a host of other obstacles that you will face. Beyond these challenges, even after arriving in a new country, migrants often have to deal simultaneously with tricky situations in their home country adding to the pressure of the move itself. These issues could be the very reason you planned to leave in the first place.

Here at Skilled Migrant Professionals magazine we understand that being a migrant is difficult for a variety of reasons. We can say this because many of us are migrants ourselves so we are speaking from actual personal experience. Our new magazine is dedicated to educating, inspiring and improving your opportunities in Australia as a skilled migrant professional. We are here to help with strategies and tips to assist in simplifying the process for honest people looking to start a new chapter in their lives.

The October issue – our very first – features a variety of useful articles to help you establish a firm footing in Australia. Although it may seem like finding a job is the most important step in the assimilation process, it isn’t the only factor you need to consider as a new migrant in a new country. Many of these factors are addressed in this edition of SMP. Some of the questions you need to ask yourself are: What sort of skills do you possess? What type of jobs should you be realistically looking for? Do you have any contacts in your new country? Is your curriculum vitae (CV) or resume fit for purpose?

Which tools, both tangible and intangible, do you have that may be able to help you find that perfect position? Walking the streets randomly handing out CVs to anyone and everyone demonstrates willingness and commitment but it is not the smartest strategy. Neither is being overly picky when you just really need to get your foot in the door. We are here to help you with guidance on making the right choices to ensure that you spend your time, money and energy wisely, otherwise these resources might just run out – along with your patience!

This issue focuses primarily on how to find the right job; how to apply for it; and then how to demonstrate your value so you not only keep the position but also move up the ladder. Our objective is to provide you with the tools to build a strong foundation on which to grow.

Along with advice on how to secure a job that you’ll enjoy and adapting to a new professional situation, this issue also contains a selection of great ideas on how to establish a firm financial future. Many migrants never stop feeling the pressure because they are often only a month or two away from running out of money, which would necessitate them returning home.

If you want a stable and fulfilling new life, then you need to acquire the cushion and the capital to live comfortably. Consequently, we have included articles on wise spending, investment opportunities and other techniques to protect your financial future. From start to finish, this month’s Skilled Migrant Professionals magazine is geared towards helping you, our migrant readers gain the skills, the knowledge and the confidence to stay here!

We’d love to know how useful the information in this edition is to you and would encourage you to let us know your opinion. Also views on any future articles that would be of particular interest or use to you would be appreciated. Please email feedback to info@smpmagazine.com.au. In the meantime, we wish you every success in all that you seek