Have you ever felt like you are drowning in a sea of job applications, only to hear crickets chirping back? 🦗
You’re not alone. I remember those days – sending out resumes, crossing my fingers, and then… nothing.
It’s enough to make you question your sanity (and maybe your resume). You start to wonder if you’ll ever land that dream job.
But here’s the secret: according to HubSpot 85% of jobs are filled via networking as opposed to applying for a job traditionally.
I was shocked when I first came to the US and learned this. I thought I was supposed to be scouring job boards like a treasure hunter!
My first job in the game industry?
Pure luck?
Nope.
It was a happy accident, a delightful collision of being in the right place at the right time.
I was connecting with game developers at a local game conference, enjoying the camaraderie.
Then, a fellow Novosibirsk native introduced me to someone from a major game company. Turns out, they were looking for someone with my exact skillset – Russian/English bilingual, game industry background.
Bam! I landed the interview, passed all the interview rounds, and got the job.
Was it pure luck? I don’t think so. I believe it was a happy consequence of putting myself out there.
Takeaway #1: Ditch the “spray and pray” approach. Stop relying solely on online job boards. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) can be ruthless, especially if you have an international background or a unique career path.
Takeaway #2: Build your network like you’re building a superpower.
- Tell everyone you know. Seriously, everyone! Your barista, your neighbor, all your friends – they all have networks.
- Attend industry events. Don’t just stand there like a wallflower. Engage! Ask insightful questions, share your passion, and make genuine connections.
- Leverage LinkedIn. Go beyond just connecting. Engage with industry leaders, share relevant articles, and join industry groups.
- Use volunteering opportunities. Volunteer your time to gain valuable local experience and build meaningful connections within the community.
Takeaway #3: Embrace your uniqueness. Your background, your experiences, your accent – they’re all part of what makes you, YOU. Don’t try to fit a mold. Embrace your superpowers!
For my fellow immigrants:
- Your cultural background brings unique perspectives and insights.
- Your language skills open doors to new markets and client relationships.
- Your resilience and adaptability, honed through the immigration experience, are invaluable in today’s dynamic world.
I was deeply moved when my speech at the “Back to Work” event for immigrant women helped another immigrant gain confidence and land an amazing job in Seattle. She realized that her unique background and language skills were her superpowers, not a hindrance.
If you’re feeling stuck in your job search, it’s time to shift your focus.
Stop chasing job postings and start building relationships.