Application forms are hardly used in Italy, except in rare cases, or by some (foreign) multi-national firms. The recruitment process is usually long, and can take up to three months. To avoid confusion you should check carefully what kind of time delay to expect for a response. The main method of applying for jobs in Italy is via a letter of application – which should generate enough interest to make the potential employer interested in you and want to look at your application in more detail and hopefully invite you for an interview. The application letter must be in Italian, unless specified otherwise. Address your letter to the personnel director (capo del personale) and include your CV (also in Italian), and copies of references and qualifications. If possible, inform them of when you’re available and offer to attend an interview. Tailor the letters to each individual company and professionally translate it if your Italian isn’t perfect.  

Required skills 

Italian employers look for many qualities in applicants. The most important skill required for working in Italy is the ability to have a proficiency in Italian. For all jobs other than English teaching, and in some cases IT, a good knowledge of Italian is generally essential. Graduates who do not have any Italian language skills will be at a distinct disadvantage. A proficiency in English language will also put you ahead of the competition. 

Communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal, are extremely important in Italy. In business environments, it is necessary to make eye contact and have a firm handshake. People who avoid making eye contact with the person they are conversing with are considered to be hiding something. With the concept of bella figura in mind, presentation skills are also more important in Italy than in other European countries. Therefore, remember that both you and your materials must look attractive, i.e., binders, overheads projections, brochures, and the like must all be stylish and inviting.  

Italian employers expect that the candidate’s education is in a relevant subject to the line of work and to have included work experience. It is necessary to have professional or trade qualifications in order to work in most fields in Italy and qualifications are also often needed to be self-employed or start a business. Prospective employees in particular fields should contact the major organization in their chosen areas for more information on education and certification requirements. For example, a Master's Degree in business administration is required for a general business job or a career as a management consultant in Italy. 

Occupation information sheets containing a common job description of a large number of trades and a table of qualifications are published by all EU Member States.  A direct comparison between any EU qualification and those recognized in Italy can be obtained from the Italian branch of the National Academic Recognition Information Centre (NARIC). For more information about equivalent academic and professional qualifications in Italy contact CIMEA. 

Written application 

First impressions last in Italy. Thus in terms of written application, the importance of getting it right cannot be stressed enough. Get it wrong or make typical mistakes and you may jeopardize your chances of getting shortlisted for an interview. Italians prefer doing business with someone they know. Thus, when applying for a job it is preferable that you first send a letter, which is followed up by a phone call to let the employer become familiar with you. You would then send the written application, which in Italy is usually comprised of two parts: a CV and an accompanying letter of presentation, known as a cover letter. 

One option for the written application is to use the Europass CV an initiative of the European Commission. The Europass CV is a template CV that enables you to make your skills and qualifications visible in a way that will be understood by employers in Europe. In general, however, it is advisable to tailor your application to the Italian style, bearing in mind cultural adaptations.  

In Italy a CV (resume) is viewed simply as a tool to get you an interview, with the purpose of presenting and highlighting aspects of your education and work experience that make you a good choice for the position. A CV in Italy does not normally devote much space to hobbies and recreational activities. Instead, it places a greater emphasis on personal information, such as individual aptitudes, professional ambitions, and the applicant’s willingness to move. All periods of study and employment should be listed in chronological order and it should be no longer than 2 pages of text. A specific clause must be included at the end of the CV in Italy, authorizing the data on your CV to be used by potential employers in the selection process. This clause also serves the purpose of allowing a firm to contact an applicant, while still obeying Italy’s privacy laws. Candidates should add the statement "Autorizzo l’utilizzo dei miei dati personali in conformità alla legge 675/96" (I agree to disclose my personal information according to the law 675/96) to the end of their CVs. Without this statement, which must be written in Italian, your application will probably not be looked at. In Italy, a photo is not requested or required on the CV. 

The cover letter should be typed up and written in a formal and concise style, and be no longer than one side of white A4 paper. Italian employers expect just a few sentences stating professional goals and ambitions as well as interests and relevant experience. Here you should clearly explain why you are interested in the job and the company, but leave the detailed explanation about your motivation and skills until the interview, as the information will be better received orally in Italy. 

In Italy, do not send transcripts, copies of your diplomas or references with your application letter and CV. These documents should be brought to the first interview and presented in person. Of course, if you have really impressive testimonials that will help you in your application, then do send them with your letter. 

Interviews 

In Italy, job interviews usually have three to four rounds, and are typical of the Italian culture, whereby the employer wants to become familiar with a potential employee. Before the interview, research the company – including its history, present focus, problems and future direction – and then review your own skills and experience. Prepare yourself and think of a few questions in advance of the interview. And practice your Italian, as Italians prefer to do business in their own language. Even if your Italian language skills aren’t your strongest point, the efforts on your part will be appreciated. Also remember to prepare copies of your CV, letters of reference, employer testimonials, photocopies of degrees and diplomas, as you will be expected to bring them to the interview with you.  

On the day of the interview, dress elegantly but conservatively, in the latest fashion. For men this means a dark colored, well- tailored suit and a tie. For women, fashionable suits or dresses are appropriate. Be aware that Italians take punctuality very seriously. It is advisable to arrive 10 minutes early for the interview. Interviews normally begin first with introductions, firm handshakes, the exchange of business cards, and then a few minutes of informal conversation. Italians are warm, friendly, physical, and a lot of emphasis is given to hand gestures but little to personal space. Ladies are recommended to extend their hand first to men. Italians respect age and position, thus you should use appropriate titles.

During the meeting, the interviewer will usually direct the conversation. The Italians believe eloquence is key and abhor silence, so when questioned, give a complete response, and cite examples of how you handled specific problems. Ensure that you are attentive and interested, and ask questions about the position and its responsibilities. Interviews in Italy are generally informal, and only if the personality of the applicant is deemed suitable will professional qualifications and experience be considered. Thus the importance of establishing a good personal rapport during the interview cannot be underestimated. 

Assessment or psychometric tests are becoming increasingly widespread in selecting candidates in Italian recruitment practices. Psychological tests used by organizations include tests of numerical ability, verbal reasoning, general levels of intelligence and tests of personality. 

Interview do’s in Italy:

• Maintain eye contact while talking, Italians think you are hiding something if you avoid eye contact whilst talking
• Talk effectively about your motivation, qualifications, skills and experience
• Ask questions about the job, the lines of authority and the responsibilities you will have
• When listening to an Italian talking in English, it is very important to nod in agreement to show that you are listening and understand the speaker

 Interview don’ts in Italy:

• Do not sit until invited to do so
• When answering questions avoid yes and no answers, try to explain yourself as fully as you can
• Insult or criticize previous members of staff in any way, this will not stand you in good stead
• Raise the issue of salary or benefits in the first stages of the interview process. However, if you are asked about your current salary, it is recommendable to respond honestly.