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Architect-US

What to do if you are trying to crack the US labor market from abroad?

Cracking the US labor market from abroad is one of the more difficult tasks to take on. To have a chance at getting an opportunity to work in the USA, it is important to understand the value that your personal brand and online presence can bring to your candidacy. You must always be willing to try new ways of reaching out to decision-makers within architecture firms.

Before getting to the US you will have to create the necessary professional relationships via online resources. One of the key tools you must build a presence on is LinkedIn. Your online presence is a huge asset during the hiring process, whether it be via LinkedIn and/or on-boarding platforms specific to architecture. Have your voice be heard by critiquing and adding to architectural discussions regarding challenges and growth to the industry.

First, it is important that you ask yourself the following three questions before you start searching for your next career step:
1.) What do you value?
2.) Why did you become an architect?
3.) What companies share your values and goals?
These are the questions that you must ask yourself in order to be prepared for the interviews and vetting that architecture firms will go through when hiring. In the following table from Statista, you can see a variety of categories that tie into how you must prepare and be pro-active when searching for your next gig.

We have compiled the main key takeaways and categories below for you to organize yourself and your strategy, both in person and online.

1. Where to find job openings?

Although there are more job applications and websites than ever before, according to a poll from Statista, 80% of jobs are never listed and are only found through networking. That means that the main source of candidates is also the internet. Thus, it is very important to make sure that yo have a presence online, as well as a professional network.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is an ideal way of getting involved with members of the architecture community, especially if you are an international talent that is just starting to build up these connections.

2. How your social media presence impacts your job search?

73% of companies used social media as a tool for hiring and 70% said they have turned down candidates due to a negative social media presence.
So you must always be trying to shape and form the online presence you create and maintain. By putting out positive and resourceful topics and information you become a source for industry related information, and in turn can portray a growth-positive brand. This in turn will reinforce your image as a talent that can add many different levels of value to the possible hiring firms.

3. How do automated systems create a barrier for your application?

50% of applications are eliminated by an automated system, according to Statista. This means that half of applicants or more will not be given the chance to meet someone in-person. This further reinforces the importance of  creating in-person relationships, or at least pre-interview professional relationships.

When considering your next career move, plan proactively and create Portfolios that include your best work. Consider looking into finding a mentor with Architect-USand improving your Portfolios with our Portfolio Plans and Career Advice Program. We provide coaching and personalized mentorship, so you can have a professional and experienced take on your next steps in your career, as well as a great team to confide in.

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