Building a career in the US can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of your journey. If you’ve just finished school or are trying to switch to a new role, job hunting as a student or young professional in the US can feel overwhelming. But with the right approach and tools, you can set yourself up for success.

This week, I’m breaking down key strategies to simplify your job search process, along with specific resources to help you find opportunities and tips to create a resume that stands out.

1. Understand the US Job Market

The job market in the US may differ from what you’re familiar with back in India. In India, it’s common for companies to focus heavily on your academic background and qualifications, but in the US, employers are more interested in the practical skills and experiences you bring to the table. While a strong academic record is still valued, you’ll stand out more if you can show how you’ve applied your knowledge in real-world situations. Highlighting relevant internships, part-time jobs, or project-based work is crucial.

While technical skills are important, US employers also look for strong soft skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills are often highlighted in job descriptions, and you should find ways to demonstrate them in your application materials and during interviews. Think about examples where you’ve worked in teams, taken initiative, or resolved conflicts, and be ready to share those during the hiring process.

In addition to skills and experience, many US companies place a strong emphasis on finding candidates who align with their company culture. Employers often look for individuals who fit well with their team, share similar values, and can contribute to a positive work environment. This is why it’s important to research the company and understand their culture before applying. Look for clues in the company’s mission statement, social media presence, and employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor.

2. Leverage Networking and Referrals

In the US, the saying "it’s not what you know, but who you know" often holds true when it comes to job searching. Unlike in India, where many positions are filled through formal application processes, a significant portion of jobs in the US are filled through personal referrals and professional connections. Building a strong network BEFORE you start your job search can greatly increase your chances of landing the right job, even before it’s publicly advertised.
​
Referred candidates often have a much higher chance of getting an interview than those who apply through traditional channels. In the US, employee referral programs are common, and many companies incentivize their employees to refer qualified candidates. Don’t hesitate to politely ask someone in your network for a referral if they work at a company you’re interested in. If you’ve built a good rapport and have demonstrated your skills and qualifications, many professionals are willing to help.
​
Here’s how you can make networking work for you:

• Start with Your Existing Network:
  ​As an international student or young professional from India, you likely already have a network of people who can help you navigate the US job market. Your fellow students, professors, and even family friends in the US can be great starting points. Reach out to alumni from your university (both in the US and back in India) who work in industries or companies you’re interested in. LinkedIn makes it easy to search for alumni from your school and see where they’re working. A friendly message or request for advice can lead to valuable connections and insights.
• Attend Networking Events and Career Fairs:
  ​In the US, attending career fairs and industry-related networking events can be a game-changer. These events provide a platform for you to meet recruiters, hiring managers, and potential mentors in person. Many universities host career fairs specifically for international students, where companies looking to hire candidates on work visas may participate. Even virtual events have become popular post-pandemic, allowing you to network without leaving your home. Remember to be proactive in these settings—ask questions, show genuine interest in the company or industry, and follow up with a thank-you message after meeting someone.
• Make LinkedIn Your Best Friend:
  ​LinkedIn is more than just an online resume; it’s a powerful networking tool. Connect with professionals in your field, and don’t be afraid to send personalized connection requests to people you admire or want to learn from. When sending a request, include a brief message introducing yourself and explaining why you’d like to connect. This approach is often well-received in the US. Additionally, be active on LinkedIn by posting industry-relevant content, engaging with posts, and joining professional groups. Building your online presence and staying visible in your field can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Be Bold in Asking for Informational Interviews:
  ​Informational interviews are an excellent way to build connections and learn more about your industry without the pressure of a formal job interview. Reach out to professionals working at companies you’re interested in and ask if they’d be willing to chat for 15-20 minutes about their role, the company culture, and their career path. Most people are willing to share their insights if approached respectfully. This can help you get your foot in the door and make a lasting impression. These conversations often lead to referrals when positions open up.
• Join Professional Associations and Cultural Groups:
  ​Many industries in the US have professional associations that provide networking opportunities, career resources, and events where you can meet like-minded professionals. For example, associations like IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) for tech professionals or SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) for HR professionals can connect you to industry insiders and potential job leads. Additionally, cultural groups such as the Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) or local Indian cultural associations offer great ways to connect with professionals from similar backgrounds who may be willing to mentor you or refer you to jobs in your field.

​
​Networking in the US is not just about finding a job right away—it’s about building long-term professional relationships. Don’t approach networking with a transactional mindset. Instead, focus on how you can offer value to the people in your network, whether that’s by sharing an interesting article, offering help on a project, or simply staying in touch. These relationships will be invaluable throughout your career, not just during your job search.

Networking in the US takes time and effort, but the results can be rewarding. Don’t wait until you’re actively job searching to start building your network. Begin early, nurture your connections, and always be open to learning from those around you.

3. Utilize Job Search Platforms

While job searching through your network should be you priority, there are several online resources where you can find job openings tailored to your needs. Some of the top platforms for international students and professionals include:

• ​LinkedIn: More than just a social network, LinkedIn is an essential tool for job searching. Optimize your profile, keep it professional, and actively search for jobs using its powerful job search feature.
• ​Indeed: A go-to for job seekers, this platform aggregates job postings across industries. You can set up job alerts to notify you about new opportunities.
• ​Glassdoor: Not only can you search for jobs, but you can also research companies, read reviews, and get insights into salary expectations.
• ​myvisajobs.com: This platform is specifically geared towards those seeking work in the US with visa sponsorship. It highlights companies that have sponsored visas in the past, making it a useful tool for international professionals.

As an international candidate, visa sponsorship can be a significant concern. It’s crucial to research companies that are open to sponsoring visas, and to be upfront about your work authorization status during the application process.

4. Tailor Your Resume

In the US, it’s not enough to send out a generic resume and cover letter to multiple companies. Recruiters and hiring managers want to see that you’ve taken the time to tailor your application to the specific role. This means adjusting your resume to emphasize the most relevant skills and experiences for each position, and writing a personalized cover letter that explains why you’re a great fit for that particular job.

Tip: You do not need to include your age, marital status, religion, or a photo. This keeps the focus on your professional qualifications and prevents any bias in the hiring process. Including a professional email address and phone number is sufficient for contact information.

In the US, resumes are typically one page for early-career professionals or recent graduates. For more experienced professionals, it may extend to two pages, but even then, brevity is valued. Instead of listing every job or academic experience, focus on those that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for. Prioritize quality over quantity.

The most common resume format in the US is reverse chronological, meaning you list your most recent job or academic experience first. Employers want to see your latest accomplishments, so make sure the most recent positions are at the top. Within each position, list your key responsibilities and accomplishments in bullet points, starting with action verbs like "led," "developed," "improved," or "analyzed."

US employers love to see numbers that quantify your impact. Instead of saying, "Responsible for managing a team," try "Managed a team of 10 employees, leading to a 15% increase in project efficiency." Specific metrics demonstrate the value you bring and make your resume more compelling. If you’re an international student or recent graduate without extensive full-time work experience, don’t worry! In the US, internships, part-time jobs, and even relevant academic projects are seen as valuable experiences. Include these on your resume to demonstrate that you’ve applied your skills in practical settings. Be sure to describe what you did, how you contributed, and the outcomes of your work.

While technical skills related to your field are essential (such as programming languages for tech roles or financial modeling for finance jobs), soft skills are equally important. Skills like communication, teamwork, leadership, and adaptability are highly valued in the US. Be sure to include a “Skills” section on your resume where you list both technical skills and relevant soft skills that match the job description.

Lastly, many companies in the US use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes before they ever reach a human. To get past these filters, make sure to use keywords from the job description in your resume, especially in the "Skills" and "Experience" sections. If the job description mentions proficiency in a certain software or skill, include it if you have that qualification.

Job hunting can be a lengthy process, especially as an international applicant. To stay on top of all your applications and know where you are at in the process with each one, create a job search system and stick to it. Schedule out your searches, apply to a certain number of jobs each week, and track your applications to stay organized. Consider using tools like Trello or Excel to keep your job search on track. The last thing you want to do it drop the ball before it gets rolling.

Like I said, the US job market can be challenging, especially when you’re unfamiliar with the process, but it’s also full of opportunities. By building a strong network, utilizing job search platforms, and crafting a well-tailored resume, you’ll increase your chances of finding the right role. Don’t forget—there’s no "one-size-fits-all" approach, and sometimes it takes time. Stay patient and persistent, and keep refining your approach. Success is just around the corner.

If you have any questions or need specific advice, feel free to reply to this email or DM me on LinkedIn or Instagram. I’m here to help!