Over the last few weeks, I have received email after email, LinkedIn message after LinkedIn message, and even a dad on behalf of their son, asking me to get a job for them.

Let’s save you and me some time: stop asking people you don’t know for a job!

It is a difficult time to get a job in this market, but desperate times do not call for desperate job search strategies.

In America, the process of getting a job is very different from back home. In America, it’s about who you know and who knows you. Begging or asking for a job not only communicates desperation but comes as a being weak.

Companies don’t want to hire weak and desperate candidates, but rather strong and reliable contributors. Don’t be a taker, be a giver.

I know I’m sharing some tough love with you, but I’m here to help! This is what Chai and Coaching is all about - to help you thrive in your job search process.

So, what do you now?

I have some tips for you, but the truth is, it’s going to come down to the effort you put in and your willingness to do what’s different. This is the hardest part of this whole process - you’re going to need to be willing to do what your friends aren’t doing. You may even look foolish to those around you.

You aren’t on this journey to impress your friends, but to make a difference for yourself and your family!

Instead of asking for a job, here are some other things you can do to stand out and land a job, even in a tough job market.

🔍 Clarify Your Job Search

Clarifying your job search is important because it helps you focus your efforts and increase your chances of getting hired. It may sound counterintuitive, but the more jobs you apply to does not increase the chances of your getting a job. Many jobs that you apply for on a company's portal may not be available. In fact, the best jobs are those that don’t have a posting but are shared through your network. When you apply for hundreds of jobs without really knowing what you want, you're not only wasting your time, but you're also diluting your message. Employers can tell when you're not really interested in the job, and they're less likely to consider you for an interview.

To clarify your job search, you need to define your skills and interests and the kind of work environment you work best in. By taking your time in the application process, you will learn more about the company and be able to tailor a resume and cover letter to the specific job and make a good first impression on potential employers.

Clarifying your job search and applying to fewer jobs actually INCREASES your chances of getting hired!

📝 Be Honest On Your Resume

I know that a lot of people lie on their resumes because they think it will give them a higher chance of getting a job. The truth is, when you lie on your resume, you're not only setting yourself up for failure, but you're also making a bad impression on potential employers.

Employers can spot a fake resume a mile away. They know what skills and experience are required for the job, and they're not going to be impressed by someone who's trying to bluff their way through the interview.

Instead of lying on your resume, focus on highlighting your real skills and experience. Be specific and provide examples of your work. By being honest on your resume, you'll show potential employers that you're a trustworthy and reliable candidate. This will give you a leg up on the competition and increase your chances of getting hired.

🤝 Contribute To The Conversation

Most job seekers on LinkedIn can be pushy and desperate by asking people who they don’t know to get them a job. This doesn’t work and won’t get you anywhere. Start contributing to the conversation by adding value to your network on LinkedIn. LinkedIn is such an underutilized platform but has great potential for your job search - even in a tough market. If you don’t know where to begin on LinkedIn, here are some ideas:

• Write posts about things that you are interested in as it relates to your field. Share new things that you are learning and start a conversation by commenting on other people’s posts.
• Answer questions from other LinkedIn users. This is a great way to share your knowledge and expertise. It can also help you build relationships with people who are looking for help.
• Join LinkedIn groups and participate in discussions. Connect with people who share your interests and enter into new relationships with a humble learning spirit.

👋 Keep Networking

When you have a strong network of contacts, you have people who can give you advice, introduce you to potential employers, and help you get your foot in the door at the company you want to work with.

If networking freaks you out, don't worry. There are plenty of ways to grow your network without having to be the extraverted, life of the party. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Start by reaching out to your current network of friends, family, and university connections. Let them know what you’re goals are and ask if they have any ideas of who you could reach out to.
• Attend industry events and conferences. This is the perfect place to meet people who work in your field and learn about potential job opportunities. When you meet someone for the first time, simply get to know them and find common ground.
• Join online networking groups. There are many online groups for people who are looking for jobs in America. These groups can be a great way to connect with people who can help you in your job search.

I know how it discouraging it can be. You have the degree, the qualifications, the experience, and yet struggle to find a job. It’s easy to get down in the dumps and begin to question your journey. Keep your head up and don’t give up!

I want to keep creating resources and giving you opportunities to learn, grow, and achieve your goal of getting your dream job.

I think these two resources will help…

1) Overcoming Challenges As Immigrant Job Seeker In USA 

In this awesome IG Live w/ @a_desigirlinus from @theimmigrantacademy you will learn about:

• Lack of Soft Skills
• Lack of Personal Branding
• Lack of Professional Network
• Lack of Guidance

2. Job Search Strategies for Masters Students in USA

In this session, I sit down with Storytelling by Data to share job search strategies with Masters Students in USA!