Job Search Tips for International Students

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Title: Job Search Tips for International Students

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Job Search Tips for International Students
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Due to federal regulations and employer concerns,
job searching can be challenging for
international students wishing to work in the
United States.
As a result, international students must become
familiar with the American job search process and
current government policies.

This PowerPoint will provide international
students with helpful tips for understanding the
American job search process.

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Key Terminology

F-1 visas
Eligible international students have the
opportunity to work full-time in the United
States for 12 months after graduation.
H-1B visa
Employer-sponsored international employees are
allowed to work in the United States for 1-6
years.

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Reasons Why Employers Hesitate

Some employers interested in hiring international
students may have some hesitancies.
These hesitancies are often fueled by the reasons
listed below.
Employers
Are unfamiliar with the process and find it to be
complicated.
Fear that international employees will leave and
return to their countries of origin.
Are worried that international employees do not
have the desired/necessary communication skills.
Are afraid that they are taking jobs away from
other Americans.

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Process for Hiring International Students

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Process for Hiring International Students

As a result, international students should
develop an understanding of the additional
responsibilities imposed on employers when it
comes to hiring international students.
International students must also understand the
American job search process.

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Resume

Resume writing may differ from country to
country.
In order to be successful and to ensure that your
resume receives the attention it deserves, you
should be familiar with the typical U.S. resume
format.

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Resume

When writing a U.S. resume
Make sure it is concise (one to two pages
maximum)
Clearly identify skills and accomplishments using
a bullet format
Do not include personal information such as
marital status, race, gender and/or religion
Make sure it is error free and follows American
writing standards
Provide a frame of reference (i.e., One of the
top five universities in Europe, Swedish
version of Outback).
Emphasize English skills
For more information, read Resume Writing Made
Easy found at http//www.mcdaniel.edu/5740.htm

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Interview

Additionally, there may be differences in the way
U.S. and non-U.S. companies interview candidates.
Again, it is essential for one to adapt in order
to be considered a serious candidate when
interviewing for a job.

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Interview

When interviewing with a U.S. company be sure to
Be punctual. Arrive at a minimum of 10 minutes
early. Being late is not acceptable and may
eliminate one from the candidate pool.
Articulate accomplishments, skills and
competencies, and relate them to the position.
Make eye contact with everyone.
Show initiative by researching the company and
asking well-developed questions.
For more information, read Successful
Interviewing Strategies found at
http//www.mcdaniel.edu/5740.htm

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H-1B Visas, Employers and Interviews

Because some employers may be reluctant to
sponsor H-1B visas, it is important to approach
the topic carefully with potential employers.
The H-1B visa sponsorship should not be one of
the first topics addressed during a meeting or
interview.
Instead, a candidate must first prove to an
employer that he/she is the best person for the
job.

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H-1B Visas, Employers and Interviews

The topic of H-1B visas should be addressed only
after an offer is made
an offer is close to being made
the employer brings it up
Once H-1B visas has been mentioned, the candidate
should be ready to explain and highlight the
simplicity of the sponsorship process.

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Identify Potential Employers

When looking for jobs, consider
International companies
They often desire individuals with languages
skills, respect for diversity, and a knowledge of
overseas economies.
Companies that have previously sponsored H-1B
visas
They are familiar with and have successfully
completed the hiring process before.
Medium and small companies
Although they are not large companies, they often
have openings for international students and
should not be discounted.

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Network

Only 20 of jobs are advertised. The other 80 of
jobs make up the hidden job market.
Individuals learn about job opportunities within
the hidden job market via networking.
When creating and expanding a network, be sure to
include friends, family, classmates, faculty,
advisors, community members, alumni, etc.
For more information on networking, read
Networking From Scratch found at
http//www.mcdaniel.edu/5740.htm

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Gain Experience

One of the best ways for students to gain
experience is by completing an internship.
In addition to helping one gain experience and
add substance to a resume, it is not uncommon for
internships to lead to full-time employment
opportunities.
Often Optional Practical Training (OPT) counts as
an internship. International students should be
up-to-date on all policies and regulations. (For
information on applying for OPT, visit
www.mcdaniel.edu/internationalstudents.)

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Focus on Specific Careers

There are some employers that are in great need
of hiring qualified employees to fill job
vacancies.
As a result, it may be beneficial for
international students looking to work in the
United States to have majors in certain areas of
need.
Frequent sponsors of H-1B visas are
Systems Analysis and Programming
Electrical/Electronics Engineering
College and University Education
Accountants and Related Occupations

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Helpful Web Pages

www.h1visajobs.com
Contains information about organizations that
sponsor H-1B visas.
www.internationalstudent.com
Contains information helpful to multiple aspects
of being an international student.
www.monster.com/geo/siteselection.asp
Similar to Monster.com, but contains job postings
for multiple countries.
www.overseasjobs.com
International jobs database
www.mcdaniel.edu/internationalstudents
McDaniel Colleges International Programs Office

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