In the process of looking for a job, I know that some of these thoughts are going to pop into your head. I’ve been there. I’ve questioned whether or not I deserve to get a job in the field of my interest. I wondered whether or not I’d be able to find a full-time job. I asked myself, “Why would anyone want to hire me” …when there were others already doing what I was doing…when other candidates seemed so much more mature and developed than me…when my English is not good enough..

 

The truth is, though, that I was able to get a Management Level Job, Permanent Residency and bought a Mercedes within 3 years in NZ, despite all the excuses I told myself because there are some universal truths to being an immigrant that I didn’t realize at the time.

These are 8 positive affirmations you can call to mind when you are struggling to find the confidence to move forward with your job search.

 

In business, there is a catch-phrase which goes, “People do business with those they know, like and trust.” It gets said a lot, but like most cliches, that’s because it’s true. For me, getting a job is just like doing business. Where an employer is going to pay you money, in return for your services.

Many times when hiring creative team members in our company, I hired a less experienced person than a person with years of experience. Just because we felt, the person’s attitude towards life is positive and he/she will be a good fit with the company’s culture. We can make him/her learn wherever he is lacking.

One good way I found to make the employers like me even before I apply for the job. LinkedIn. If you are not using this you are missing out. I used to add all the people (who will be involved during the hiring process) and engage with them (liking, commenting, sharing their posts, and even message if you think it’s appropriate). But never ask them to give you a job/looking for a job etc. Just try and add pure value.

Then when you go for an interview. BAMM! They already know you. You are welcome.

 

Very important. You don’t have to be an expert at everything. Take one thing and master it, to the level no one can beat you. Explain the same in your CV properly and convey when at the interview.

I have many IT people (Asians) in our company, who can’t even speak English properly. Still, they are the highest-paid employees in the company. Why? Well, no one can do the things they can do. Enough said.

 

The words you have written in the CV, or specific language have a powerful effect on people. It is how you convince them to sell yourself to the company.

I understand that’s not easy. You’d say, connecting with people on an emotional? Rachit, it’s hard for me to even talk to strangers sometimes.  Well, one way I have learnt is by hanging out with the people who were exceptionally well speakers. I observed and copied the things they did.

 

This will be useful if you are going to work for a small business. Like, I remember I wanted to work for a rugby club as a part-time marketing executive when I was in Uni. A day before the interview I skimmed through all their online presence. And created a report mentioning all the things I felt can be improved. Handed over the report during the interview. Got hired on the spot, I guess they didn’t even interview the rest of the people. 

 

Again, very important. A few months ago, we were hiring a videographer for our company. Out of 130 candidates, only 45 people had the relevant skills for the job.

And sad to say, most of the Indian’s CV didn’t even pass the preliminary screening. I remember many bakers, retail managers, chefs were applying for the job. That’s fine if you want a career change and you don’t have experience. At least provide a link of work examples, showing you are passionate about this.

 

You don’t have to have a million-dollar portfolios from previous clients/companies to show others that your work can generate positive results. Just like I wrote in ‘understand your employer’s problems’. Go above and beyond and create something for free, address their problems and how you can help solve it. This will help you stand out from the crowd.

 

I can’t tell you how many times I have not hired a person because I just got a sleazy vibe from them or felt like he is pretending to be one he is not.

Be yourself and be confident. You are the best.

 

Don’t just rely on your current knowledge or what you have learnt in Uni. YouTube is a great source of learning new things. Whenever I have free time I go to YouTube and try and learn new skills. This has helped me to make myself better with time and always be updated with new things according to the industry standards.

 

Now go out and take action. You are the best!