How to find a job in Lille
Known as the capital of French Flanders, Lille, in the North of France, has a strong history in textile manufacture and finance. As a popular student city, it attracts expatriates in large numbers every year. Grouped with Lomme, Lambersart, Roubaix, Tourcoing and Villeneuve-d'Ascq, the city used to be a great metropolis known as the Urban Community of Lille. By moving there, you will enjoy not only a dynamic and multicultural environment but also various professional opportunities.
The economy of Lille
With a population of around 232,000 inhabitants, Lille is located at crossroads with Northern Europe. It is famous for its comprehensive and accessible transportation network. Over the past few years, Lille has become a leading economic powerhouse in the North of France, and as a result, its labour market also has greatly diversified. Aside from the manufacturing industry, many job opportunities are also available in other sectors, especially in the service industry.
The most promising fields in Lille
To date, business and personal services are the most promising fields in Lille, accounting for no less than 75% of the local economy. Consider the following promising areas:
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Housekeeping
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Maintenance
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Information and Communication Technology (system/network administrators, project managers, developers)
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Animation (animators and directors)
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Construction
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Manufacturing
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Hotels and Catering (kitchen staff, clerks, waiters)
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Culinary Sector (butchers, pastry chefs or bakers).
Finding a job in Lille
The internet will be your best tool during your job search in Lille. Indeed, you can browse several general and specialised job websites (see links below) as well as professional social networks such as LinkedIn. Feel free to seek the assistance of Lille's Maison de l'Emploi or other recruitment agencies too.
Why not send spontaneous job applications (known as candidature spontanée) to companies operating which appeal to you in the area? This is common practice in France ' simply make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the company concerned. Word-of-mouth will also help if you have friends and contacts with whom you can network.
Remember that the local labour market also has a hidden side, especially when it comes to small and medium enterprises. In this case, networking will definitely be your ally, as will social media ' be sure to check out Facebook groups and online forums which may deal with more casual work.
Useful links:
Maison de l'Emploi Lille ' Lomme ' Hellemmes
La Voix Emploi
Nord-Pas-de-Calais Prefecture
Indeed
Graduate Land
Erasmusu
Glassdoor
