How to Get a Physiotherapy Job to Work in Any Country

Over the past few days, I’ve had people reaching out to me asking the same question:
"How can I get a physiotherapy job, especially in the UAE, Saudi, or other Gulf countries?"

Now, I know I’ve talked about job opportunities abroad before, and yes, I did mention that it’s possible to land these roles. But the truth is, many physiotherapists don’t even know how to start applying. And honestly?
That’s a real issue in our field.

It’s sad, yes. But it’s also the reality. And that’s why I offer mentorship — to fill this exact gap.

So today, I want to share something important.
If I were 10 years younger, a fresh physiotherapy graduate, this is exactly how I would go about finding a job, whether it’s here in Nigeria or abroad.

Step 1: Know Where You Want to Work

Every country has its own process:

• In Nigeria, it could be government hospitals or private clinics

• In the UK, you’ve got the NHS and private practice

• In Australia, Saudi, or the UAE, it's mostly private sector roles

So before anything, ask yourself:
👉 Where exactly do I want to work?
👉 Do I know how hiring works in that country?

Once you’re clear on that, the real work begins.

Step 2: If You’re in Nigeria – Get Your Foot in the Door

Let’s be real. In Nigeria, connections (“long leg”) play a big role. But what if you don’t have that?

You create opportunities by volunteering.

• Find a facility you admire. A hospital or clinic with a good reputation or one that hires regularly

• Offer to volunteer once or twice a week. That’s all. Just enough to get a foot in the door

Even if you don’t have transport money to go every day, once or twice a week is enough to:

• Build relationships

• Learn the inner workings of the organization

• Understand who’s who

• Get noticed

When an opening comes up, you’re already inside

💡 And if you can afford it, volunteer in 2 or 3 places. Stretch yourself. Work remotely or pick up online gigs to support yourself in the meantime. It’s temporary. It’s strategy.

I've seen this work. I’ve watched volunteers become contract staff… and then permanent staff.
It works. I know people who’ve done it

Step 3: If You Want a Job Abroad – Be Smart, Not Just Formal

You’re now looking at the UAE, Saudi, UK, Australia. So how do you get in?

Here’s how:

✅ Apply Through Job Boards

• Use platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, TotalJobs, SEEK, depending on your target country

• Search for roles, polish your CV, and apply

But here’s the thing. Everyone is doing that

You’ll be competing with hundreds, sometimes thousands of applicants

So while applying for posted jobs is fine, it’s not the best method

Step 4: Reach Out Before They’re Hiring (This Is Key)

Here’s the secret sauce most people miss

Don’t wait for job adverts. Go directly to them

🚀 Here's how:

• Search for physiotherapy clinics or hospitals in your target country

• Look them up on LinkedIn

• Find key staff like clinic directors, HR, recruiters, or senior physiotherapists

• Send them a cold message or cold email

Tell them:

• Who you are

• Your experience

• Your passion

• What value you bring

• Attach your CV

This approach bypasses the crowd and puts you at the top of their mind when opportunities come up or even creates new ones

Step 5: Take It Further – Send a Video Cold Email

Want to really stand out?

Instead of just a cold email,
📹 Send a cold email with a short video of yourself

It’s basically a pre-interview. You make their job easier

In the video (1–2 minutes):

• Introduce yourself

• Talk about your passion for physiotherapy

• Mention what you admire about their clinic or company

• Share how you could contribute or improve something in their system

Why it works:

• Shows effort and confidence

• Humanizes you

• Helps you build rapport faster

• Reduces their guard. They feel like they know you already

🎯 I had someone do this for me once and I was very impressed

Use a clean background. Speak clearly. Dress well. Record it with good lighting and audio
Trust me – this works

Here’s the realest advice I can give you

Applying through job sites is the front door
Reaching out directly is the back door
And sometimes, the back door is the only way to get in

Don’t wait for job ads. Don’t wait for long leg
Create your own opportunities

This strategy has worked for others, and it can work for you if you’re willing to put in the work

There’s no free lunch. You have to move smart, be intentional, and take initiative

And if you don’t know where to start, that’s exactly why I created my mentorship program
To help you bridge this gap with practical steps, accountability, and insider guidance

🎯 Ready to Fast-Track Your Physio Career?

🚀 Join My Mentorship Program
Get tailored coaching, insider strategies, and accountability to help you succeed—whether you're applying locally or aiming for roles abroad.

📘 Grab My CV & Cover Letter eBook
Learn my proven method to craft a standout CV and cover letter that open doors in private clinics, hospitals, and global markets like the UAE and UK. Secure your copy here: https://selar.com/247773