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I moved to the US precisely a decade in the past. I’ve been saying this quite a bit currently — maybe my mind continues to be adjusting to this milestone. I keep in mind when a pal as soon as mentioned, “I plan to remain on this nation for five years.”
On the time, I assumed, “5 years is quite a bit; I’ll undoubtedly be right here for a lot much less.”
Effectively, ten years have handed, and I’m nonetheless within the San Francisco Bay Space — that is the longest I’ve lived in any metropolis as an grownup.
Earlier than shifting, I did plenty of job search analysis. I felt ready — I had a great resume and had labored for worldwide corporations, together with Hewlett-Packard and Visa at one of many largest international advert company networks. It sounded spectacular on paper, however once I began interviewing, I confronted actual challenges.
It felt like I used to be saying one factor, however the interviewers heard one thing fully completely different. I spent a very long time feeling confused, usually repeating myself simply to ensure to get my message throughout.
Ultimately, they might perceive the complete breadth of my expertise. As I grew extra comfy with this new nation, tradition, and language, I began to know the nuances. It was refined.
Suggestions for Your Tech Job Search
The purpose of this text is to share observations I’ve encountered and how one can hold these in thoughts should you’re open to new alternatives and trying to work overseas. My perspective comes from working within the tech house within the Bay Space, and right here’s what I’ve discovered:
1. Study the language.
After I say “study the language,” I’m not simply speaking about English; I’m speaking in regards to the language spoken in your {industry}.
Completely different roles have their very own jargon. For instance, in Agile environments, you’ll hear phrases like, “Do you will have any blockers?” or “Are you becoming a member of the each day?” UX Designers at the moment are usually known as Product Designers. Many Scrum Masters have transitioned into Undertaking Administration roles.
When folks see a resume itemizing the individual as each Product and Undertaking Administration it could be complicated, why are they taking part in these distinct roles?
Understanding and utilizing industry-specific language could make an enormous distinction in how your expertise is perceived and understood.
2. Craft your resume effectively.
Your resume ought to be a concise showcase of your abilities and achievements.
Earlier than shifting to the US, I hadn’t up to date my resume in years — I relied solely on LinkedIn and my community. In a brand new nation and {industry}, I needed to adapt.
In Silicon Valley, resumes usually keep away from pictures or design parts. As a substitute, give attention to crafting sturdy bullet factors that spotlight your obligations and the influence you made in your crew and product. Present these influence numbers, don’t simply describe your function’s obligations.
3. Spend time with {industry} professionals.
This one is tough to quantify, however it’s usually about choosing up on the small issues: the mannerisms, the way in which folks discuss, the instruments and apps they use, and the priorities of their {industry} or firm. Have interaction with folks, take heed to their tales, and study what issues to them.
Learn extra:
Don’t be afraid to ask questions; folks love sharing their journeys. It’s a good way to remain impressed and study new issues. Study what they care about whether or not it’s design, person expertise, or innovation.
4. Learn extra.
I really like books; they encourage me, assist me study new abilities, and supply insights from one of the best leaders, virtually like an MBA in a guide. I used to learn primarily in Portuguese, however changing into fluent in English opened up a complete new world of content material.
If English isn’t your first language, studying in English may give you entry to sources you may in any other case miss. Studying helps speed up your studying, deepens your understanding of how folks in your discipline suppose, and teaches you the best way to talk successfully in your chosen {industry}.
I LOVE this guide, The Tradition Map, and suggest it to anybody working in a distinct tradition than your personal. This guide, Discover Your Individuals, is nice too.
5. Perceive the interview course of.
After I began interviewing, I had no thought what to anticipate.
In tech, the primary interview is normally a telephone name with a recruiter who critiques your expertise and asks fundamental questions. The second interview is often with the hiring supervisor, focusing extra in your general expertise. The third stage might be a panel interview with a number of stakeholders or unfold over two days.
Then, you may need a follow-up with the hiring supervisor the place they’ll ask deeper questions earlier than shifting on to a check or receiving a job supply.
These 5 insights have considerably remodeled my profession in tech over the previous decade. Just like the books which have impressed me, these learnings have been transformative on my journey.
