The single biggest make or break factor for new migrants to secure jobs

By Mandar Erande | Monday, September 07, 2015

Right Attitude

Attitude! That’s it! The single biggest make or break factor for why some new migrants make it in a new country quickly and some fail to assimilate into the economy and secure a job. Attitude in my opinion counts for far more than skills, experience or qualifications. In fact I can even say it equals the combined power of all three above together.

Some of the new migrants I meet these days complain to me with similar stories. 'I am sending out so many resumes, but I am not getting a single interview call'. 'Recruiters won’t consider me for this reason or that'. 'I think I was the ideal candidate for that role but they didn’t call me for an interview'. I am so sick of this strange system.' 'I hate recruiters'. 'I don’t want any professional advice'. 'I don’t need a Career Coach or professional help, I know everything'. 'I have tertiary qualifications. I want only this sort of role, at this salary level'.

Notice one thing in the above paragraph with different themes that is common? I! It’s all about ‘attitude’. This attitude has unfortunately been greased up with ego, money and qualifications. It’s always 'this has been our way'. Well your way may not work here. These sort of new migrants have never been exposed to slowing economy or hardships in job search. They have passed out of a good University, secured a campus placement with a promotion after a few years and life has been sweet for them. They are quick to blame everyone from the agent, to the entire the migration process and all recruiters. It’s the attitude, and the wrong kind of attitude.

Compare this with other type of new migrants, who are successful. The factual evidence is very commonly evident. Again its attitude, but this is positive attitude. They are more open to options, understanding and have a big willingness to learn. They are quick to seek out proper professional advice and realise that things work out differently. They are humble and ready to put in the hard yards. To invest time, money and energy. It’s about realising the fact that I need to adjust here, not the other way around. I will improve and change my skills. I would listen and invest in expert advice. It’s a learning curve and I would get there.

As a Career Coach for new migrants I would say this, help is at hand. Don't be disappointed. Don't go back jobless, disappointed or keep working in odd jobs . Change your attitude, seek professional advice and get results. Invest in yourself. Its good to have an attitude, but have the right kind of attitude!