Getting a job in the United States can seem daunting, but it is very achievable with the right preparation and effort. The US job market is vast and diverse, with opportunities in nearly every industry and field. Competition for jobs can be fierce, so it is important to make yourself stand out as an appealing candidate. This article will provide an overview of the key steps and requirements for landing a job in the US as a foreigner.
Have Authorization to Work in the US
The first major requirement for getting a job in the US is having legal authorization to work. There are several visa types that allow foreign nationals to work legally in the country:
- H-1B visa – For skilled foreign workers in specialty occupations like IT, engineering, medicine, etc.
- L-1 visa – For intracompany transfers of executives, managers or workers with specialized knowledge
- F-1 visa with OPT – For foreign students pursuing degree programs in the US, allows 1-3 years of work after graduation
- J-1 visa – For a variety of cultural exchange programs with a work component
- H-2B visa – For seasonal, temporary or intermittent workers in nonagricultural jobs
- TN visa – For Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in certain professional occupations
Beyond having the right visa, you must follow all requirements such as maintaining your status, obeying visa rules, and getting an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if required.
Decide Where You Want to Live and Work
The US is a vast country with many different states and metro areas, each with their own job markets, industries, and opportunities. It’s important to research different locations and decide where you want to live and search for jobs.
Some top cities for finding jobs include:
- New York City
- San Francisco Bay Area
- Washington DC
- Chicago
- Boston
- Seattle
- Los Angeles
Consider factors like:
- Industries and opportunities in your field
- Cost of living
- Proximity to companies and professional networks
- Access to public transportation
- Quality of life, climate, amenities, etc.
Looking for jobs in the right places will increase your chances of success.
Evaluate Your Skills and Qualifications
Once you know where you want to work, take an honest assessment of your skills, qualifications, education and experience to see how they align with roles in your desired field and location.
Some key considerations include:
- Does your degree, major and coursework match the requirements for positions you are targeting?
- Do you meet the experience levels and skills listed on job postings?
- Are there any gaps you need to fill through supplemental education, certifications, internships, etc?
- How strong is your professional network and references in your target field/location?
Identify any weak areas you can strengthen to be a more competitive applicant. Gaining additional skills, education and experience in the US can be extremely helpful for positioning yourself as a qualified local candidate.
Prepare Your Application Materials
Making sure your job search documents are strong and tailored for US employers is a key step. Important materials include:
- Resume – Customize your resume for each application. Focus on skills, quantified achievements, and brevity.
- Cover letter – Write fresh cover letters explaining why you are an excellent fit.
- LinkedIn profile – Optimize your profile and grow your professional network.
- Portfolio – Have samples of your best work/projects in your field.
- Reference letters – Get recommendations highlighting relevant skills for the jobs you are seeking.
Follow US resume and job application conventions. Leverage university career centers, resume writers, libraries and online resources for guidance.
Search for Job Opportunities
Now it’s time to search and apply to jobs! Here are some top recommended methods:
- Online job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn Jobs, Monster, etc.
- Professional association job boards specific to your industry
- Company career sites and job listings
- University alumni job boards and career fairs
- Networking and asking contacts about openings
- Attending industry events, conferences and meetups
Don’t limit yourself to just applying online. Reach out directly to hiring managers and recruiters by email when possible.
When searching:
- Look for entry-level roles, internships and graduate schemes to start out
- Be open to contract, temporary or short-term jobs to build experience
- Consider interim roles at staffing agencies
- Expand your search nationwide for greater opportunities
Persistence and volume in applying is key – don’t get discouraged by a lack of responses. Keep searching and applying.
Prepare for Interviews
If you land job interviews, fantastic! Now it’s time to shine by preparing:
- Research the company – Go beyond the careers site and LinkedIn. Study their products, initiatives, history, culture, leaders, values, etc.
- Review common interview questions – Expect questions on your background, skills, experience, goals, etc. Prepare clear, concise responses.
- Rehearse your pitch – Summarize your qualifications, passion, and what makes you the best fit. Practice aloud until polished.
- Prepare smart questions to ask – Ask intelligent, thoughtful questions that show your understanding of the company and role.
- Review your resume – Refresh yourself on all details, as you may be asked about anything listed.
- Plan your interview attire – Dress professionally. Err on the formal side, even for video interviews.
Thorough preparation will help you feel focused and confident going into each interview.
Follow Up Post-Interview
Always send thank you notes or emails to interviewers promptly after each interview. Express your appreciation for their time, reaffirm your interest, and include any additional credentials you failed to mention.
If you don’t hear back from the company after the expected response timeframe, follow up politely by email or phone. Ask if they have an update on hiring timelines or require any additional information from you.
Following up demonstrates your continued interest, enthusiasm and initiative.
Negotiate the Job Offer
Congratulations, your hard work has paid off! When you receive the coveted job offer, don’t accept right away. Take time to carefully review the offer including:
- Salary and employee benefits
- Health insurance, retirement plans, vacation time, etc.
- Start date, work hours, probationary period
- Job duties and responsibilities
- Reporting structure and chain of command
- Remote work or hybrid work arrangements
- Professional development and training
- Relocation package assistance if moving
Prepare a counteroffer for any areas where you feel the offer could be improved or clarified. Negotiate firmly but politely, focusing on your value to the company. With skillful negotiation, you may end up with an improved job offer.
Make it Official
Once terms have been finalized, get all job offer details in writing and sign the formal offer letter to officially accept the position. Submit any required I-9 verification documents to your new employer promptly. These are needed to begin working and earning a legal paycheck in the US.
Notify your new boss and confirm your start date. Mark your calendar and get ready to begin an exciting new chapter in your career!
Conclusion
Finding a fulfilling job in a new country takes significant effort and perseverance. But with the right mindset, preparation and persistence, you can absolutely land amazing opportunities in the diverse US job market. Get your paperwork in order, build your skills and experience, search diligently for openings, and put your best foot forward. Before you know it, you’ll be starting an exciting new position and taking steps towards your American dream. Wishing you the very best in your US job hunt!
