Career advice: Network for Leads to Find A Job at a Firm in the U.S.

MiklosCanada

I'm a manager in a top-tier strategy-consulting firm and would like to return to line management at a U.S.-based global technology firm in a strategy/corporate development/marketing or business development role. I have an M.B.A. from INSEAD, worked several years in line management for a CAD software company in Europe, speak four languages and have a strong international background. As a former programmer and hardware designer, I also have a good understanding of technology.

I've read that U.S. companies need high-caliber business people with international experience and skills and have sent my resume to quite a few. However, none seem interested in me because I lack U.S. experience, don't have a work permit or they have no international positions. I'm convinced I could be successful working for a global hardware or software company. What am I doing wrong and what should I do differently to reach hiring decision-makers?

Frances's advice

What you're doing wrong is using resumes as your only job-hunting tool. Sending resumes is the least efficient way to job hunt. Resumes are used to screen people out, which is what's happening to you. Although you possess many desirable skills and extensive special knowledge, you're running into dead ends at every turn.

Find other ways to approach your job hunt. It's difficult but possible to find a job in another country. Network with employees working for multinational firms in your city for the names of contacts in the U.S. and other countries, then target specific firms with offices where you would like to live and work. Contact government agencies, consulting firms and professional associations about opportunities. Consult with foreign trade associations in Canada and the U.S. Search for positions on the Internet. Most importantly, talk with everyone you know and ask them for names of people working for firms in your chosen industry and geographical area. Talk with them about how they got started, and then talk some more. The only way you'll ever get to meet and speak with decision-makers is by spending lots of time networking with others.

When you approach companies, follow the three rules of a successful marketing campaign. You can remember this by telling yourself to fish for a job with the proper ROD (Recipient, Offer, Design): Approach the right Recipient, make an attractive Offer (say what you can do for the company and don't ask for a job interview) and work on the Design of your approach.

Topics: Networking · All topics