Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s job market, like many others in the region, is changing quickly. The introduction of AI, remote work, and other factors have

Historically, many Sri Lankans who go to study abroad tend to look for opportunities internationally, because of challenges in the local economy and the perception that more opportunities and money is available elsewhere. However, to try and attract some of its brightest talent back to the country, the Sri Lankan government has invested in some of its key sectors and created more opportunities for graduates.

Before returning to Sri Lanka, it’s important that graduates understand the job landscape, potential opportunities, and what industries and employers are in need of workers. This guide will highlight some insights into prominent industries, key employers, job search resources, and application tips.

General tips for finding and applying for jobs in Sri Lanka.

1.        Research the job market.

Ø  Keep up to date with key trends and developments in the labour market. You can do this by reading the news and looking at sites like the International Labour Organisation.

Ø  Take advantage of AI to help identify key sectors that relate to your qualifications and interests. You can also learn more by using sites like Prospects.

2.        Build a strong CV and cover letter.

Ø  Most UK universities offer continued support for their alumni which can include help with writing CVs and cover letters. Take advantage of these services (you paid for them after all). If you’re still at uni, book an appointment with your university’s careers service. They can help in many ways, including building confidence for job interviews, CV writing techniques and more.

Ø  Remember to keep your CV concise. Employers at large multinational firms may only look at your resume for a few seconds so you need to make sure the information you want to share stands out. Highlight important achievements and things like volunteering work.

3.        Network effectively.

Ø  LinkedIn is a great way to network with potential employers and to do a bit of sleuthing for your research. You can use it to connect with people you’ve met, but also people you’d like to meet. You can use it to see what people who have your ideal job did to get there and think about ways you can build experience to get there yourself.

Ø  You can also attend industry events and look out for ones your university’s careers service is organising. There may also be organisations in Sri Lanka that host jobs and careers fairs where you’ll get an opportunity to connect with employers.

4.        Use reliable job portals.

Ø  Register on Sri Lankan job platforms like topjobs.lk, rooster.lk, XpressJobs, LinkedIn Jobs, and Gradlink.

Ø  You can also check for jobs directly on company websites and through organisations.

5.        Prepare for interviews.

Ø  Again, utilise AI to provide sample job interview questions to help you prepare for and anticipate what you may be asked.

Ø  Research common interview questions online.

Ø  Do your homework about the industry you’re hoping to enter. Employers want to see interviewees demonstrate a solid understanding of the industry, the job they’re applying for, and more. You can do your homework by checking profiles on LinkedIn, reviewing job adverts, asking AI and watching videos on Youtube. There are lots of ways you can research the industry or job you’re interested in, and you can also speak to your university’s careers service to receive guidance.

 6.        Consider internships and volunteering.

Ø  People with work experience, which includes internships and volunteering, are valued by employers. People with work experience, even if it’s not directly related to the role you’re applying for, are usually preferred over people with none. Work experience helps you understand the realities of working within an industry, with different people, and towards certain deadlines and proves to employers that you have what it takes to be an asset to them in their business.

7.        Keep up to date with technological advancements.

Ø  As we know, AI is here to stay and recent research has shown that employers now prefer to hire candidates who have some level of proficiency in using it. AI is expected to impact many sectors in the future and graduates should take steps to enhance their understanding of how to use it to enhance their working practice. It can be used to help with project planning, writing emails, doing research, and much more, so job seekers should take the opportunity to practice using it and think of ways they might use it to support them in their work in the future.  

Key (and growing) sectors in Sri Lanka

1.        IT and software development.

Ø  The sector is rapidly expanding, with need for software engineers, data analysts, and cybersecurity experts.

Ø  Key employers: Virtusa, WS02, 99X, CodeGen International, Sysco Labs.

Ø  Vacancy sources: topjobs.lk, XpressJobs, company career pages.

Ø  Key advice: Look at in-demand certifications such as AWS, PYTHON, and cybersecurity related credentials.

2.        Finance and banking.

Ø  Numerous graduate roles in banking, insurance, and fintech startups exist in Sri Lanka.

Ø  Key employers: Commercial Bank, HNB, Sampath Bank, LOLC, Nations Trust Bank.

Ø  Vacancy sources: Bank career portals, LinkedIn jobs, topjobs.lk

Ø  Key advice: Pursue additional qualifications like CIMA, ACCA, or CFA for a competitive edge.

3.        Tourism and hospitality.

Ø  The sector is recovering post-pandemic, with job opportunities being created in hotels, travel agencies, and events management.

Ø  Key employers: Jetwing hotels, Cinnamon hotels, Aitken Spence, Walkers Tours.

Ø  Vacancy sources: LinkedIn jobs, hotel websites, career fairs, XpressJobs, topjobs.lk

Ø  Key advice: Strong language skills and customer service skills can enhance job prospects.

4.        Manufacturing and export.

Ø  Key exports such as apparel, tea, and rubber have driven a demand for engineers, supply chain specialists, and quality controllers.

Ø  Key employers: MAS Holdings, Brandix, Hirdaramani, Dilmah, Hayleys.

Ø  Vacancy sources: Company websites, industry jobs boards, LinkedIn.

Ø  Key advice: Develop technical expertise in production management and sustainability practices.

5.        Healthcare and pharmaceuticals.

Ø  Healthcare is a growing industry in Sri Lanka which has led to a need for medical professionals, research and pharma specialists.

Ø  Key employers: Asiri Health, Hemas Pharmaceuticals, Lanka Hospitals, State Pharmaceuticals Corporation.

Ø  Vacancy sources: Company websites, government health jobs portals.

Ø  Key advice: See what postgraduate studies or specialist training you can do to enhance your job prospects.

6.        Education and training.

Ø  Private universities, TNE partnerships, and online learning platforms need educators to help provide top quality learning to students.

Ø  Key employers: British Council Sri Lanka, AOD, NSBM, Horizon Campus, Lyceum, international schools.

Ø  Vacancy souces: Institution websites, LinkedIn jobs.

Ø  Key advice: Consider certificates in like the iPGCE or CELTA to enhance your job prospects.

7.        Renewable energy and sustainability.

Ø  Sustainability is a global buzzword right now, and for good reason. Companies are in need of reducing their carbon footprint to save the planet and to help them do so, new jobs are being created. Jobs related to solar, wind and hydropower projects are in demand.

Ø  Key employers: LTL Holdings, JLanka Technologies, Hayleys Solar.

Ø  Vacancy sources: LinkedIn, energy sector forums, company websites.

Ø  Key advice: Pursue further qualifications related to renewable energy technologies to keep relevant in the industry.

 Conclusion:  

Sri Lanka’s job market has many exciting opportunities for graduates to work with companies making a real difference to the country’s economy. By upskilling, networking, and staying informed, graduates can secure fulfilling roles within Sri Lanka’s dynamic job landscape.