Job Searching After Graduation? Here’s How to Stay Sharp and Stand Out

Hey there!

Graduation may be behind you but the job search is still very much part of the journey. Whether you’re still on the hunt for your first full-time offer or thinking about making a move from your current role, this newsletter is for you.

Post-OPT job searches can feel intense. You’re balancing application deadlines, visa timelines, and questions like: “Will this company sponsor?” or “How do I stand out in a crowded field?” The good news? A few smart strategies can help you refocus your search and increase your chances of success.

Let’s walk through them.

Start With Your Resume - and Make It Count

If it’s been a few months since you last touched your resume, it’s time for a refresh. But not just any update - make sure your resume is tailored to each job you’re applying for.

Here’s how:

• Read the job description carefully and identify the top 5–7 skills or qualifications they’re looking for.

• In your bullet points, mirror their language and highlight experiences that match their needs - whether it’s tools (like Python or Salesforce), soft skills (like leadership or collaboration), or accomplishments.

• Use metrics wherever possible. Instead of “Helped organize onboarding for new hires,” say, “Streamlined onboarding for 15+ hires, reducing setup time by 20%.”

This one change - customizing your resume to each role - can dramatically improve your chances of getting noticed.

Reevaluate Your Strategy

If you’ve applied to 100+ jobs with no luck, it’s okay to pause and reassess. Ask yourself:

• Am I applying to companies that actually sponsor H-1Bs?

• Am I targeting roles that align with my current experience and OPT eligibility?

• Am I spending enough time on quality applications versus quantity?

Focus your energy on roles that are relevant, and employers who’ve hired international candidates before.

If you need help, we did some analysis on the latest foreign visa filings as released by the Department of Labor. This spreadsheet includes the top 200 companies that filed for the H-1B visa and top 50 cities with the top 5 employers in each city. It also includes the email contact of the person responsible for handling visas for each company!

Not a recent or experienced graduate? Fill out this quick survey so we can send you tailored content based on where you’re at in your international student journey.

Consider Contract and Temp-to-Hire Roles

If a full-time offer feels out of reach right now, contract roles or temp-to-hire positions can be a great stepping stone. These roles are often easier to land and can lead to longer-term employment. They also allow you to get your foot in the door at companies that might eventually sponsor if they see your value. Just be sure the position is directly related to your degree - as required by OPT/STEM OPT rules - and make sure your DSO is looped in for any updates.

Polish Your LinkedIn Profile

Your LinkedIn is more than just a digital resume - it’s a place to tell your story. A few quick ways to make it stronger:

• Write a short, keyword-rich headline and summary that reflect what you’re looking for (e.g., “Data Analyst | SQL, Python, Tableau | OPT Seeking Full-Time Opportunities”).

• Add a professional profile photo.

• List your relevant coursework, projects, and skills.

• Ask for recommendations from professors or former supervisors if you can.

Recruiters do look at LinkedIn. A sharp profile = more visibility.

Follow Up and Stay Confident

If you’ve already had interviews that didn’t pan out, don’t get discouraged. Every conversation is a chance to refine your story, improve your answers, and make a stronger impression next time. Follow up with interviewers when you can, ask for feedback if appropriate, and stay consistent. The job you’re looking for might be one application away.

Need a Resume Template Built for International Grads?

We’ve got you. Our free ATS-optimized resume and cover letter template is designed to help international students get past automated filters and highlight your experience in a clean, professional format.

Download Roam’s Resume and Cover Letter Template

We know this season of job searching can feel heavy. But you’ve already come so far -now’s the time to apply that same persistence and belief to your next steps.

Best,
The Roam Growth Team 🧡