Breaking into the UK job market as an international student wasn’t easy—but with the right strategy, persistence, and a bit of creativity, I made it happen. Here’s my journey in a nutshell and the lessons I learned along the way.
Crafting the Right Application
One of my key strategies was tailoring my resume for each role. I ensured it was ATS-compliant and packed with quantifiable achievements from university projects. This wasn’t about sending out mass applications—I focused on quality over quantity.
What made me stand out? A blend of technical skills, problem-solving abilities, persistence, and a positive attitude.
Starting Early & Staying Consistent
My advice to fellow international students? Start applying early—even in your first year. Polish your resume to UK standards, network with alumni and peers, and keep building both technical and soft skills. Most importantly, don’t get discouraged by rejections—they’re part of the process.
Overcoming Challenges
A major hurdle was the experience requirement—even for entry-level jobs. I tackled this by broadening my search across industries and earning technical certifications to boost my profile. Visa sponsorship was another challenge, but I faced it head-on by clearly communicating the value I could bring to potential employers.
My Job Search Approach
I leaned heavily on LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Reed, Indeed, and my university career portal. Alongside applying online, I reached out to recruiters directly, ensuring my application got noticed.
Building relationships with alumni and peers was also key—I regularly asked for advice, insights, and referrals.
Personal Branding
I made sure my resume and LinkedIn profile were aligned with the UK job market, highlighting relevant keywords and technical skills. I also maintained a professional online presence, which helped me stand out.
Landing the Role
I secured a role as a Technical Implementation Consultant, working with global clients to integrate CRM, ERP, and SCM systems with my company’s platform using REST APIs, webhooks, and SFTP connectors. My coding background and problem-solving mindset made me a strong fit.
The Interview Process
The process included a phone screen, presentation, and technical and behavioral interviews. It was thorough but focused, assessing both technical expertise and soft skills. My balanced approach to challenges helped me succeed.
Growth & Next Steps
In my current role, I’m constantly learning—tackling complex integrations and enhancing cross-functional collaboration. I stay proactive, seeking out opportunities to sharpen my skills and contribute to platform improvements.
Final advice? Start early, stay persistent, keep learning, and don’t underestimate the power of networking.