International Students and the Job Search
Preparing for an Interview
The interview is your opportunity to convince the employer that you are the right person for the job. In most instances, an employer is expecting you to articulate your future career goals and past accomplishments. The interviewer is assessing you according to values such as self-confidence, initiative, directness, and individualism. You must learn to become comfortable with the idea of marketing yourself to an employer.
Non-verbal behavior may also be a barrier to successful communication with an interviewer. Eye contact, physical distance, personal appearance and manner of dress all communicate things about you to an interviewer. It is important that you understand exactly what you are communicating.
Understanding and mastering appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication before an interview is essential. UCS offers programs, books and videos on interviewing. Once you are feeling more comfortable with the process, schedule a mock interview with a counselor. The counselor will make suggestions for improving your technique. Remember, the more practice you have, the more prepared and relaxed you will be when the time comes for an employment interview.
Preparation for an interview always includes doing research about the employer. Also, the interviewer will expect you to have questions about the job or the organization. It is helpful to have those prepared in advance.
Check the UCS library for other resources in preparing for the interview process:
• UCS handout on “Interviewing for Employment”
• Knock 'Em Dead
• Sweaty Palms: The Neglected Art of Being Interviewed
• Interview for Success
NOTE: Always consult with the International Student Advisor to make sure that you understand the parameters of your visa status. Not only is this essential information for you to have as you determine your goals for employment, but you will have to clearly and accurately explain your status to most employers during the interview process.
Following Up With Employers
After having an interview, it is always appropriate to follow-up with a thank-you note. In this follow-up correspondence, you can reiterate your interest in the position and emphasize the skills and abilities you would be bringing to the employer. This type of correspondence is not considered being pushy. In fact, if an employer does not hear from you after an interview, the assumption may be that you are not sincerely interested in the job. See the UCS handout called “Cover Letters and Other Correspondence” for an example of a thank-you letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I list my visa status on my resume?
Your visa status should not be included on your resume. Your permanent address, educational background and work history will display that you are an international student. Hiring managers will ask the appropriate questions during the recruitment process. You should never lie about your visa status, but given the reservations employers have about hiring an international student, it is not to your advantage to draw attention to it.
Aren’t there some illegal questions?
An employer MAY NOT ask:
• What is your visa type, nationality, place of birth? or, Of which country are you a citizen?
• What is your native language? or, What language do you most often speak?
An employer MAY ask:
• Are you legally authorized to work in the United States? or, Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for an employment visa?
• Which languages do you read, speak or write? (provided that foreign language skills are job related)
How do I answer when I am asked by an employer about my work authorization? (F-1 student)
Start by explaining that you have the legal right to work in the U.S. for twelve months remaining in student status (after your practical training is authorized, of course, or you at least have a confirmation with receipt number), which requires absolutely no work on their part. Then share that your work authorization can be renewed for another three to six more years with an H-1B work visa. Avoid saying the word “sponsor” when talking about the H-1B application process, instead use the phrase “petition”. You should also explain that it is NOT required for the employer to show that there are no U.S. citizens qualified for the job, only that you meet the minimum requirements. This often unknown fact often opens the door for further conversation.
When in the hiring process do I reveal that I’m an international student?
This is a very sensitive question which needs to be assessed on a case-by-case basis. While some employers adhere to strict policies against hiring foreign nationals, others may prefer to hire U.S. citizens, but can be otherwise convinced. Therefore, it should be your goal to get passed the initial screening measures to the interview. On the other hand, you should probably broach the subject before the employer has spent a significant amount of time and money trying to recruit you. It is usually recommended that students address the issue of their work status during the first or second interview, but no later than the time of the job offer.
If a company says they don’t hire international students, should I even apply?
Sure. A lot of times when employers say they don’t hire international students it means that they haven’t hired any international students, yet. You may be the first! In order to convince these prospective employers, it is your responsibility to educate them about the process of hiring a foreign national. Be mindful that they still may not hire you, and this can become frustrating. It is recommended that you first target organizations with a history of hiring employees on a work visa.
What can I do to make myself a more attractive candidate?
• Get your resume and cover letters reviewed by a UCS counselor, employer or alumni
• Become thoroughly familiar with immigration regulations and benefits attached to your visa status
• Research the employers and the positions in which you are interested
• Participate in a mock interview
• Practice speaking confidently about your skills, interests and career goals
• Improve your English skills by speaking up in class, making presentations and expanding your circle of native English speaking friends
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