Category: Everyone Need Encouragement

Everyone Need Encouragement, Market Updates

Coping with Homesickness: Strategies for Migrants

Tate

Starting a new life abroad is a courageous and hopeful step, but one that often comes with unexpected emotional hurdles. Among the most common is homesickness—the emotional response to separation from family, familiar surroundings, and cultural norms. This feeling can affect even the most determined migrants and may linger longer than expected.

For skilled migrants relocating to New Zealand, Australia, or exploring pathways in Europe or North America, success is not just about landing a job—it’s about building a meaningful life. This article provides practical strategies and mindset shifts that migrants use to turn uncertainty into belonging.

Strategies Migrants Use to Cope with Homesickness

These are not just coping mechanisms—they are the foundations of long-term emotional resilience and personal success in a new land.

1. Staying Connected with Home

Maintaining ties with your home country provides emotional grounding. Regular phone and video calls with family members and close friends remind migrants that they are not alone and still part of a larger network of support12. Many migrants schedule weekly catch-ups with loved ones, even if time zones make this challenging. Social media groups dedicated to people from their homeland also offer community and shared understanding.

Additionally, cultural continuity plays a huge role in emotional well-being. Migrants often find comfort in cooking traditional dishes, listening to music from home, or celebrating cultural holidays. These practices offer a sense of control and familiarity that softens the feeling of dislocation12.

2. Building a Support Network

Forming new relationships is essential for adapting to a new country. Many migrants seek out cultural associations, community centers, or church groups where they can connect with others facing similar challenges12. These spaces offer validation and camaraderie that ease the burden of isolation.

At the same time, making connections with locals is just as important. Learning to build friendships outside of one’s cultural circle not only helps with language practice but also leads to broader acceptance and opportunities. Migrants often report that even small gestures—such as chatting with neighbors, attending workshops, or joining local sports clubs—make a large emotional impact34.

3. Personalizing Your Space

Creating a familiar, cozy space at home can significantly improve emotional well-being. Simple things like hanging family photos, displaying mementos from your hometown, or arranging furniture in a culturally familiar way can bring emotional comfort and a sense of ownership5. This tactic helps transform temporary accommodation into a space that feels emotionally safe—a critical anchor during difficult days.

Some migrants also create dedicated “comfort zones” within their homes—spaces for prayer, tea, or reading—that help preserve cultural rituals and offer moments of reflection or calm.

4. Exploring the Host Culture

Embracing your new country is not about abandoning your identity—it’s about adding layers to who you are. Successful migrants take time to learn the language, understand local customs, and participate in daily life as much as possible16. This doesn’t happen overnight, but consistent small efforts—like watching local news, trying new foods, or observing holiday traditions—can ease the adjustment process.

Joining community events, enrolling in a class, or volunteering helps migrants interact with the host society in low-pressure settings. These moments not only reduce homesickness but help develop a sense of place and belonging23.

5. Maintaining Physical and Mental Health

Migrants often overlook their physical and mental health while focusing on settlement tasks, but well-being is a long-term investment. Regular physical activity—whether walking, jogging, yoga, or gym sessions—boosts mood, reduces anxiety, and builds structure into the day52.

Equally important is mental health. Migrants can benefit from accessing culturally sensitive counseling, mental health hotlines, or peer-support groups. A growing number of online and in-person services now cater to migrant communities, offering resources that normalize and address emotional stress14.

6. Volunteering and Helping Others

Taking part in community service or volunteer projects offers a double benefit. It gives migrants a chance to give back and also helps them feel more integrated. Whether it’s planting trees, tutoring students, or helping with a food drive, volunteering fosters purpose and builds a stronger connection with the new environment2.

Many migrants discover that helping others in small ways builds self-esteem and restores a sense of agency, especially during early periods of vulnerability.

7. Setting Goals and Reflecting on Purpose

Migrants often report that reminding themselves of why they moved helps them through hard times. Whether it’s to secure a better future for children, pursue professional growth, or escape political hardship, reconnecting with that purpose provides motivation2. Setting short- and long-term goals also adds structure and keeps the focus forward-looking.

Some migrants use journaling or vision boards as tools to track progress and celebrate small wins. Others speak affirmations or reflect with trusted mentors. These actions shift attention from what’s missing to what is being built.

The Mindset That Shapes Your Migration Journey

More than any external factor, your internal state can shape how you experience migration. Here are the three most powerful mindsets—both helpful and harmful—that influence migrant success.

Positive Mindsets That Support Integration

1. Growth Mindset

Migrants with a growth mindset believe that abilities—like language learning or professional adaptation—can improve with effort. They embrace challenges as learning experiences rather than signs of failure. This mindset fosters resilience, especially when migrants face setbacks like job rejections, communication barriers, or unfamiliar processes67.

Even when struggling with English or local customs, migrants with this mindset tend to seek resources, practice daily, and persist until progress becomes visible. In turn, they build not only skills but also self-confidence and emotional stability.

2. Willingness to Interact

Social courage—the willingness to talk to strangers, attend events, or ask questions—makes a significant difference in how quickly migrants integrate15. This doesn’t mean being extroverted; it means making a consistent effort to connect with people, even when it’s uncomfortable.

This mindset helps overcome shyness or fear of embarrassment. Over time, even small conversations with neighbors, coworkers, or shopkeepers help build familiarity and trust. These connections are the stepping stones to a real sense of community.

3. Sense of Purpose

A clear sense of purpose acts as a compass during the toughest times. Migrants who keep their long-term goals front of mind are more likely to endure early struggles and take strategic action. This mindset helps reframe daily challenges—from housing issues to credential recognition—as part of a larger journey toward stability and success7.

Purpose can come from career ambition, family hopes, or even the pursuit of a better lifestyle. When migrants tie their sacrifices to something meaningful, they gain strength and avoid burnout.

Limiting Mindsets That Hinder Adjustment

1. Fixed Mindset

Migrants with a fixed mindset often believe their skills or intelligence are unchangeable. For example, someone who thinks “I will never speak English well” may avoid trying altogether. This mindset leads to fear of failure, low confidence, and missed opportunities67.

Unfortunately, fixed thinking can prevent even capable migrants from seeking help, taking risks, or applying for jobs that might challenge them. Breaking this mindset often requires supportive coaching or early success stories to prove improvement is possible.

2. Sense of Alienation

When migrants view themselves as permanent outsiders, it becomes harder to engage with the host community8. This mindset can develop if migrants experience repeated rejection or cultural misunderstanding. Over time, they may withdraw, limiting their ability to participate in society meaningfully.

The danger of alienation is that it creates a self-fulfilling cycle—avoiding interaction leads to less integration, which leads to even more feelings of isolation. Migrants must actively counter this by creating bridges, not barriers.

3. Fear of Discrimination

Discrimination is a real issue in many countries, but allowing the fear of it to dominate your mindset can be paralysing. Migrants who assume they will be rejected or stereotyped often hesitate to apply for jobs, avoid asking for help, or refuse to speak up13.

While caution is wise, excessive fear can limit potential and cut off positive experiences before they start. It’s vital to develop discernment and find safe ways to build trust, advocate for oneself, and seek allies.

Conclusion: From Homesick to Homegrown Strength

Migration is an emotional and psychological journey—not just a logistical one. Feelings of homesickness are natural and valid, but they do not need to define your story.

With the right strategies and a supportive mindset, migrants can overcome the initial shock of relocation and begin creating a new chapter filled with purpose, connection, and hope. It’s not about losing your identity—but about expanding it in a way that honors where you’ve come from and where you’re going.

Footnotes & References

  1. https://canadianimmigrant.ca/living/wellness/missing-home-strategies-to-help-you-lessen-the-impact-of-homesickness ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
  2. https://chatterfox.com/10-tips-on-how-to-overcome-homesickness-as-an-immigrant ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
  3. https://www.impossiblepsychservices.com.sg/our-resources/articles/2020/02/03/coping-with-homesickness-depression-anxiety-expatriate ↩ ↩2 ↩3
  4. https://www.octagonpeople.com/homesickness-5-coping-strategies-for-expats ↩ ↩2
  5. https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/ways-reduce-homesickness-abroad ↩ ↩2 ↩3
  6. https://blog.oup.com/2018/09/migrants-intercultural-experiences ↩ ↩2 ↩3
  7. https://www.brainzmagazine.com/post/how-do-mindset-and-identity-affect-the-success-of-migrants-in-their-new-country ↩ ↩2 ↩3
  8. https://www.live-work.immigration.govt.nz/live-in-new-zealand/tips-for-settling-in/feeling-homesick ↩

Everyone Need Encouragement, Market Updates

Navigating the Current Challenges in the Australian and New Zealand Job Markets

Tate

Understanding the Challenges in 2024

In 2024, job seekers in New Zealand and Australia face a challenging market. The year started with a promising hiring pace, but by mid-year, New Zealand experienced a significant slowdown. Australia is facing a milder downturn, though hiring overall has declined this year compared to last. This is the feedback I am getting from both employers and job seekers. Supporting this, the New Zealand Treasury Department reports that unemployment is expected to rise from 4.3% to 4.9% due to economic stagnation. As noted in their August 2024 Economic Update, “The labour market likely eased with weak economic activity, indicating a rise in unemployment” (Treasury Economic Update, August 2024).

What’s Causing the Job Market Slowdown?

The economic environment, marked by inflation and recession concerns, has led employers to be cautious with hiring. Many businesses prioritize local hires due to cost and efficiency considerations, while foreign job seekers face delays due to visa processing times and other administrative requirements. According to Talent International, “candidates are seeking higher salaries to compensate for [inflation], yet organizations are driving cost-conscious decisions,” slowing hiring in sectors like project services where budget constraints are common (Talent International Employment Trends).

For foreign candidates, these delays can mean waiting weeks or even months for visa decisions, which has become a deterrent for employers in less urgent hiring situations. This added complexity has tempered hiring momentum, making it essential for foreign job seekers to understand the impact of visa policies on their job search.

The Upcoming Opportunity: February and March 2025

Despite the current hiring challenges, February through March 2025 offers a promising window for job seekers. This period aligns with the new business year when many companies assess staffing needs and begin hiring for long-term roles. Given stabilizing economic demand, the Treasury anticipates gradual recovery, making early 2025 an ideal time to seek opportunities (Treasury Economic Update).

The Best Position For Any Job Seeker

No matter the economics of the state, industry leaders at the top of their game will remain in prime position for faster hires and higher salaries. The key is to make complex skills easily understandable at every stage of the hiring process. Talent International confirms, “while ‘we have seen the cooling of salaries across many job families, hard-to-find niche talent will always test the top end of what the market has to offer” (Talent International Employment Trends).

Positive attitude is a force in itself, but doesn’t replace good preparation.

Strategic Suggestions for Job Seekers

Engage Directly with Industry Contacts
Establishing direct communication with hiring managers provides invaluable insights into specific needs and hiring trends. This feedback better positions you for upcoming job interviews, as industry contacts can share insights on skills in high demand and potential hiring opportunities.

Leverage December’s Relaxed Atmosphere for Networking
Employers are typically less busy in December, making it an ideal time to connect and gather information that may lead to applications in the new year.

Prepare for Peak Hiring Season in February
January is perfect for reviewing your profile and gathering feedback. In February, the peak hiring period, prepared candidates may see response rates of two responses per hour of outreach effort. Success varies based on availability, industry, and individual motivation.*

* Note: different inddustries have different seasons. Example: for Teachers, the biggest hiring period is for Term 1 start. This is happening now. February will be too late for them. There are also many agricultural seasons. If your market has seasonality, take that into account.

Focus on Feedback to Gauge Market Positioning
Collecting feedback from at least ten hiring managers provides insights beyond general market advice, helping you understand where you stand. If you aren’t receiving personalized feedback, this may be a sign to seek professional guidance. Direct responses from employers are the gateway to job interviews.

Showcase Your Unique Skills and Value
Employers remain open to hiring foreign candidates with scarce skills. Emphasize your expertise and how it fills gaps in the local market, as this can make you a competitive candidate in Australia or New Zealand.

Conclusion

Though the current market is tough, opportunities will come for those prepared to engage strategically. By staying informed, building industry connections, and timing your job search with hiring cycles, you can increase your chances of success. Stay resilient, and focus on the early 2025 hiring season, as it may be your perfect window for a career opportunity in Australia or New Zealand.

Everyone Need Encouragement

“Let the Numbers Speak for You” – A High Achiever’s Guide to Self-Promotion

Tate

As a high achiever, you’ve always let your work and results speak for themselves. But when the time comes to promote yourself in a new role or market, it can feel uncomfortable—like you’re bragging. The solution? Let the numbers speak for you.

Instead of boasting about your achievements, report them just as you would present results in a boardroom. Think of yourself as a project, where your past performance, metrics, and accomplishments are the facts that demonstrate your value.

Why Let the Numbers Do the Talking?

  • Numbers are undeniable: Data and metrics provide concrete evidence of your success. Whether it’s the revenue you’ve increased, the efficiency you’ve improved, or the number of projects you’ve led, numbers make your achievements real and relatable.
  • Professional, not personal: Focusing on metrics shifts the conversation from being about you personally to the impact you’ve made. This allows you to present your achievements in a clear, factual way—without feeling like you’re bragging.
  • It highlights your true value: Decision-makers respond to measurable results. By showing the scope and scale of your achievements through numbers, you’re effectively communicating your worth and aligning your strengths with the needs of potential employers.

How to Let the Numbers Speak for You

  1. Be Specific: Don’t just say you improved a process—show the exact percentage of improvement, the revenue it saved, or the number of hours it cut.
  2. Highlight Key Metrics: Choose the numbers that best represent your success, whether it’s growth, cost savings, or increased efficiency.
  3. Organize Your Achievements: Present your data in a way that’s easy to understand, just like you would in a report or presentation. Clarity and logic matter.

Your achievements are more than just words—they’re backed by results. When you let the numbers speak for you, you’re allowing your true value to shine without ever having to brag.

If you’re a high achiever looking to confidently present your strengths, I can help you organize and communicate your success effectively. Reach out today to discover how you can let the facts and figures show the world what you’re capable of.

Watch the video below to learn more about letting your numbers speak for you:

Everyone Need Encouragement, Market Updates

Unlocking Opportunities: How New Zealand’s Record Migration Benefits Skilled Job Seekers

Tate

Record Migration into New Zealand

New Zealand experienced a record influx of migrants in 2023, with net migration reaching an unprecedented 133,800 people by the end of the year. This surge, the highest since records began, was primarily driven by non-New Zealand citizens. Historical data indicates that such high migration numbers were last seen before the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting a significant recovery and increase in arrivals. The post-pandemic migration spike is largely attributed to the reopening of borders and New Zealand’s strong economic appeal. Additionally, this trend might reflect efforts to compensate for labor shortages experienced during COVID-19 lockdowns​ (Stats NZ)​​ (Stats NZ)​​ (Stats NZ)​. For foreign job seekers, this influx presents unique opportunities, especially in sectors needing skilled labor.

Migration from New Zealand to Australia

In contrast, New Zealand also recorded a significant increase in its citizens migrating to Australia. In 2023, over 74,000 New Zealanders moved to Australia, resulting in a net migration loss of approximately 47,000 people. This migration wave is the highest on record, reflecting Australia’s attractive job market and lifestyle. If not for this outflow, New Zealand’s net migration gain would have been 47,000 higher. This dynamic creates a unique scenario for foreign job seekers, indicating potential gaps in New Zealand’s labor market due to the departure of local talent​ (RNZ)​​ (BERL)​. The ongoing movement highlights the demand for skilled workers to fill these gaps.

Insights for Foreign Job Seekers

The record migration trends in New Zealand offer distinct opportunities across various industries:

  • Construction: The surge in population drives demand for new housing and infrastructure projects, creating jobs for engineers, architects, and construction workers.
  • Healthcare: With more residents, there is a growing need for medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and allied health workers.
  • Education: The influx of families increases the demand for educators at all levels, from primary to tertiary education.
  • Technology: The expanding economy and digital transformation efforts require skilled IT professionals, software developers, and cybersecurity experts.
  • Agriculture and Hospitality: These sectors are also seeing increased demand due to population growth and tourism recovery post-pandemic.

For qualified and skilled job seekers, New Zealand’s robust economic growth, favorable migration policies, and expanding labor market make it an attractive destination for career advancement​ (Stats NZ)​​ (RNZ)​.

If you are a skilled and qualified professional in your country and if you want to learn how to find work in New Zealand or Australia, just send your CV to me at tate@employmentforimmigraiton to me for a quick review. I will respond with helpful insights in about a day. – Tate

Everyone Need Encouragement, Market Updates

Is New Zealand in a Recession or is this My Best Opportunity to Find Work in 2024?

Tate

Discover how to maximize your job search during the peak hiring season in New Zealand and Australia! This video provides key insights into why spring is the best time to secure employment, highlighting migration trends.

It is worthy to note that your best employers are not average companies, they are higher-performance companies. Successful companies will be hiring in September and October, as I explain in the video.

Take advantage of this time and ensure your readiness for the busy summer months. Perfect if you are a job seeker looking to make the most of this optimal hiring period.

New Zealand and Australia are the most foreign-friendly countries in the west.

Everyone Need Encouragement

Upskilling: A Path to Success for Aspiring Migrants to New Zealand and Australia

Tate

Migrating to New Zealand or Australia for work can be a challenging endeavor, especially if you find yourself on the borderline of qualifications and skills required for these competitive job markets. As a career marketer and job consultant with 30+ years of experience, I want to offer some advice on how upskilling might be your best option and why self-improvement is a valuable goal in itself.

The Importance of Upskilling

Upskilling can significantly enhance your profile, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market. It is not only about meeting the minimum requirements but also about exceeding them and standing out among other applicants. Self-improvement through acquiring new skills or enhancing existing ones can lead to greater job satisfaction, better career prospects, and an improved quality of life.

Investigating Opportunities

To investigate opportunities in New Zealand or Australia, start with a thorough assessment of your current skills and achievements. Compare these with the market demand and immigration requirements in your desired industry. Job advertisements are a valuable resource for understanding the specific qualifications and skills needed for various roles. Familiarity with these requirements can help you set clear goals and identify areas for improvement.

Understanding Immigration Requirements

Over the past couple of generations, both New Zealand and Australia have been increasing their requirements for migrant job seekers. Due to the popularity of these two countries, it is likely this trend will continue. Additionally, the immigration websites for New Zealand and Australia provide detailed information on the qualifications required for different visa categories. If you want customised service, seek out reputable agencies like New Zealand Shores for immigration help. Ensuring you meet these requirements is crucial for a successful application and a smooth transition to working abroad.

Ethical Considerations

While I would love to work with everyone, I face a moral dilemma. Engaging in a business deal without ensuring that a job seeker can realistically secure a job and a satisfactory quality of life in a new country would be unethical. Therefore, if you are on the borderline of qualifications and skills, I encourage you to view upskilling and personal improvement as positive steps that can open doors not only in New Zealand and Australia but also in your home country or other potential destinations.

A Message of Hope

I hope this advice helps you find a path towards an improved profile. By enhancing your skills and aligning them with market demands and immigration requirements, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Self-improvement is a positive goal in itself, and I believe that with dedication and effort, you can achieve your career aspirations.

I wish you all the best in your journey, and perhaps we will meet again when you are ready to take the next step in your career.

Everyone Need Encouragement

Emigration Encouragement

Tate

We all need encouragement sometimes. Here are 10 challenges that you might feel as a new immigrant, plus 10 encouraging ways to manage each of these challenges.

1) Language Barrier: Mastering the local language is crucial for effective communication in the workplace. Remember, language skills improve with practice and immersion, turning this challenge into an opportunity for personal and professional growth.

2) Cultural Differences: Understanding and adapting to the local culture and workplace norms can be daunting. Each step towards cultural integration enriches your global perspective, making you a more versatile and adaptable professional.

3) Recognition of Qualifications: Sometimes, foreign qualifications may not be directly recognized. Exploring equivalency programs or additional certifications can open new doors and highlight your commitment to your career.

4) Limited Local Network: Lack of a professional network in a new country can hinder job search efforts. Building a network from scratch is a chance to forge valuable connections that can offer support and opportunities in unexpected ways.

5) Visa and Work Permit Issues: Navigating the legal requirements for working in a new country can be complex. Staying informed and proactive about visa regulations demonstrates your dedication to securing a position and can lead to successful employment.

6) Employment Gaps: Time spent relocating or adjusting to a new country may lead to gaps in employment. Use this time to acquire new skills or volunteer, showing potential employers your resilience and continuous growth.

7) Bias and Discrimination: Immigrants might face biases or discrimination in the job market. Your diverse background brings unique perspectives and innovation to teams, making you a valuable asset to any employer.

8) Understanding Job Market Dynamics: The demand for certain skills can vary greatly from one country to another. Adapting your skills to the needs of the local job market can make you a more competitive candidate.

9) Access to Information: Finding reliable information about job opportunities and application processes can be challenging. Utilizing online resources, local employment services, and community networks can provide clarity and open up new pathways.

10) Mental and Emotional Stress: Relocating and job hunting in a new country can be emotionally taxing. Remember, resilience and patience are key. Every challenge overcome is a step closer to your goal, and support is available through community groups and professional services.

Everyone Need Encouragement

Transitioning from Beginner to Advanced Job Seeker: A Guided Journey

Tate

You don’t have time to learn from your own mistakes. Do it right the first time. Unlock doors to more employer engagement, interviews, and better career opportunities.

1. A Natural Learning Curve

Transitioning from a novice to an advanced job seeker doesn’t have to be like a master’s degree.  With the right system and mentorship, progressive improvements can happen quickly along milestones of improvement until a job is secured.

2. Growing from Experience

As a beginner, recognizing the potential for growth is crucial. An advanced job hunting system and experienced support can guide even the most introverted people towards confident job seeking and job interviewing.  I have seen the most introverted professionals gain confidence in their presentation skills when they realise that the content of their knowledge is 10x more important than how that content is delivered to employers who need their skills.

3. Evolutionary Steps Forward

Imagine the shift from tentative job applications to employing targeted, effective methods. Advancing gradually brings noticeable changes in approach and outcomes.  Knowing what to do and how to do it, with the right coach is all you need.

4. Learning from Others

New job seekers benefit immensely by learning from those who’ve walked this path thousands of time previously. A person who has helped thousands of job seekers through every possible challenge imaginable is going to save you a lot of hassles and remove barriers quickly. For example, a business owner doesn’t automatically know that owning a business can be a red flag of competition to employers. Additionally, they often don’t realise how easy it can be to present business ownership as an advantage to employers. There are many examples of similar unforeseen cultural minefields.

5. Success through Transition

Embracing advanced methods promises higher employer responsiveness and increased interview opportunities.  Imagine getting an 80% personalized response rate directly from employers.  This is 40x greater than the average 2% response rates experienced by most job seekers.  This level of improvement can be achieved painlessly with the right system, experience and support.

6. Empowering Career Growth with Ongoing Support

Moving from conventional to advanced approaches is not just possible but immensely rewarding. Throughout this transition, learners are supported by experienced guidance every step of the way until they secure a job offer.  I have helped clients with a 3-year delay during my “end to end” service package. The first delay was the Covid lockdowns. It lasted 2-years. And this resulted in another 1-year delay due to financial challenges. And when my Client was finally ready, I made myself available and we continued forward until success was achieved. End-to-end job support like this is virtually unheard of in our job market today.

Conclusion: Embrace the Progression

The journey from a beginner to an advanced job seeker can unfold naturally, marked by continuous improvements in measurable results. If are dedicated to your goal, I can help you achieve it.

To find out how my system and support can work for you, just send your CV to Tate@EmploymentForImmigration.NZ – be sure to include a few sentences about your status and goals.  I respond in about 1 day.

Everyone Need Encouragement

Getting hired is easier with positive energy

Tate

In the competitive world of job hunting, success often hinges not just on qualifications and experience but also on the emotional energy you bring to the table. Unlike qualifications and experience, emotion energy can be generated quickly and without financail cost.  We would be foolish to ignore this valuable asset.

Research in social psychology has uncovered fascinating insights into the impact of emotional influence, which can be particularly relevant to overseas job seekers. Let’s explore three key findings and how they can be applied to improve your job search.

1) Positive emotions increase your chances:

Just as a positive attitude can lead to better sales results, it can also have a significant impact on your job search. Hiring decisions are not purely transactional; they are influenced by emotion and human interaction. Approaching potential employers with enthusiasm, optimism and a friendly demeanour will automatically improve your chances as a candidate. Employers are more likely to remember you and see you in a positive light. So, as a job seeker, remember that positivity can be a powerful asset.

2) Mirroring in job interviews:

A fascinating aspect of emotional influence is mirroring, where people tend to reflect the emotions of those around them. In a job search context, this means that your emotional state can influence the perceptions and decisions of potential employers. Have you ever noticed that if you fold your arms while talking, the person opposite you will also tend to fold arms? This is mirroring and it happens internally as well. Another thing to remember about mirroring is that the one with the higher energy level will have the most influence. If you exude confidence and positivity at interviews and networking events, you’re more likely to get a positive response from employers. Conversely, if you appear nervous or discouraged, this negative energy can be mirrored and potentially work against you.

3) Non-verbal communication matters:

Over 90% of what employers consider during the hiring process comes directly from you, and much of it is non-verbal. This is particularly important for foreign jobseekers because there is very little about you that will come by other sources. Nearly everything about the decision to hire or not hire will come from you. Let your body language speak the same message as your written and verbal messages. Confidence, proactiveness and positivity are traits that employers look for, and they often read these qualities in your non-verbal cues. Even if you are nervous, you can still be confident about your professional strengths and you can reduce nervousness through adequate preparation. Your posture, eye contact and general energy can all convey whether you’re a confident and proactive candidate. This comes more easily to people who prepare really well.

Believe within:

To project confidence and positivity, start by believing in yourself. Preparation is key. Knowing that you’ve done your best to prepare your profile for easy access to our core professional strengths, prepared to deliver excellent interview content and paved the way for meetings with direct contacts to decision makers can boost your internal confidence as you gain knowledge and develop relationships.

Conclusion:

As an expat jobseeker, your emotional energy is a key asset in your job search. Unlike many qualifications, it is readily available and doesn’t require years of effort to acquire. I’ve seen people with borderline profiles secure competitive positions because they radiated positive energy for the role, projects, company, region and country.

Bottom line, when you programme yourself for success, employers will be positively influenced to hire you.

Everyone Need Encouragement

Do Our Challenges Guide us to Success?

Tate

Isn’t it remarkable how our greatest achievements often come from our greatest challenges? From Albert Einstein to Michael Jordan, it seems that the most successful people in our world agree that failure + persistence = eventual success.

Recently I have been studying the ancient practice of Dream Yoga, which dates back to at least the 8th century in India. I wondered if we could adapt and simplify its teachings to address the challenges faced by modern migrants.

Let’s explore some key principles of Dream Yoga that might prove helpful:

  1. Awareness,
  2. detachment,
  3. setting clear intentions,
  4. staying grounded in who you are
  5. enjoying the resilience and growth that happens naturally when the above qualities are aligned.

Awareness of the present is all we really have. The past exists as a memory and the future is merely a projection. By cultivating awareness of the present, we can gain clarity and navigate our challenges more effectively.

Objective detachment reduces the influence of emotions and enables us to adapt more quickly to change. This is relevant for job seekers who are faced with too many rejection letters by potential employers. By disengaging from emotional responses to rejection, one can maintain equilibrium and focus on the lessons of moving forward in the search.

Setting clear intentions and visualising goals is another helpful practice and it applies to our modern world quite well. By taking the time to clarify your job preferences and setting concrete goals, you increase your chances of achieving them.

By staying grounded in one’s own sense of self and cultivating a deep sense of presence, job-seekers can navigate the changes and obstacles with greater resilience.

Question reality, because most beliefs are subjective. What is the reality behind the challenge? For example, if an employer rejects you after an interview, this can be an opportunity to seek advice. Surprisingly, local employers often offer helpful advice and even may provide contact information of their direct competitors who may be hiring. This perspective reminds us that many beliefs and perceptions are not what we might think and can be re-examined.

Even Einstein said it. Most achievers in sports also agree.

“I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”

– Michael Jordan

Consider what lessons your challenges are trying to teach you. They may be the key to your personal growth and ultimate success.