I want to settle in a new country in Europe, but I'm having trouble finding a job because of the language and culture.
Problem:
I want to settle in a new country in Europe, but I'm having trouble finding a job because of the language and culture.
Detailed problem:
I am Arif Khan, an engineer from Bangladesh. Currently living in Paris, France. While living in the country, I dreamed of building a good career in Europe. After coming here with a lot of difficulty, I realized that the reality is much harder.
My main problem is language and culture. I am good at English but weak in French. I see in many companies' job advertisements that local language skills are required. Moreover, the job market here, the communication style, the way of creating a CV—everything is new to me.
I have applied to several companies, but have not received any call. Sometimes I feel like I lack experience, and sometimes I feel like I am not able to apply properly. I don't have many acquaintances here who I can seek help from.
When I am not getting a job even after all this struggle, I also doubt my own capabilities. Will I really be able to survive in this place? Or is it better to go back to my country? Please give me some guidance.
Askly Help's compassionate solution:
Dear Arif,
Listening to your story, I understand that you are struggling with a difficult reality. Adjusting to a new country is not easy, especially when language and culture are barriers. But remember, you are not alone in this struggle—millions of immigrants around the world face the same problems as you.
1. Remove the language barrier:
Since you are in France, it is very important to master the French language. Dedicate at least 30 minutes a day to learning the language. You can use platforms like Duolingo, Babbel, or YouTube. You can also enroll in a local language course.
2. Prepare your CV and cover letter:
The style of CV and cover letter in Bangladesh may not match the European job market. Specific, refined and relevant information is generally more important here. Update yours by looking at the profiles of professionals on LinkedIn. If necessary, seek help from a local career counselor.
3. Create a network:
It's important to be well-informed in the job market. Attend local meetups, seminars, or workshops. Connect with French professionals on LinkedIn. Meet new people, learn about job opportunities.
4. Start with small jobs:
Sometimes it can be difficult to get into a big company directly. That's why it's best to start small or with an internship. Both experience and contacts will increase, which will make it easier to get into a big company in the future.
5. Maintain mental strength:
Repeated failures can be frustrating, but remember, to be successful you have to go through this. Those who have succeeded have also gone through this situation at some point.
You can do it, because you have already shown courage and set foot in Europe. These few challenges cannot stop you. Keep trying, you will definitely succeed.
6. Understanding cultural differences:
I grew up in one culture in my country, but coming to Europe and entering a new culture requires adaptation. The mentality and work style of the French work environment can be completely different. Employees here generally prefer more freedom and there is a certain distance between each other at work. It can be a little uncomfortable at first, but gradually you will find your place. It takes a little patience to integrate into French society.
7. Take care of your mental health:
It is very important to improve your mental state after a failure. Your feelings are only natural. When one cannot reach the place he wants, disappointment comes. But remember, it is a matter of time. If you keep yourself strong and improve gradually, everything will be fine. Sometimes it is right to go slowly, because one has to learn each chapter of life and move forward.
8. Build your self-motivation:
There will come a time when you may feel like you have lost everything or that there is no way forward. Then remind yourself why you started this journey. How you want to improve from your previous life and set a big goal that will keep you interested every day. Set small goals and move forward, one day you will know that you have come this far, and you will feel that you are on the right path.
9. Get family support:
Since you are abroad, keep in touch with your family and loved ones regularly. Sometimes the support and love of family gives you the strength to get through the difficult moments of life. If your journey feels lonely, spend some time with them, you can get positive energy from them.
10. Be ready for opportunities:
Finally, when the opportunity comes, you have to be ready. With a clean CV, a strong network, and the right mindset, you will find your opportunity at the right time. Sometimes the job market moves slowly, but when the opportunity comes, it will come when you are ready.
If you go ahead fully prepared, believe in yourself and keep the strength in your mind, then one day you will see everything changing. Remember, the solution to any problem will come with time, but if you are patient, you will eventually succeed.
I believe you will succeed on this path and become an example for others in the future.
Good luck and keep trying!
— Askly Help