Landing a job interview in the U.S. as an immigrant is a big deal as it serves as a powerful vindication that your skills and experience are on par with local talent — proof that you belong, you’re qualified, and you have what it takes to thrive in a competitive landscape.
While it might feel a bit familiar, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind as you get ready.
For us Filipinos making the move to America, there’s a little cultural shift—like how we present ourselves, answer questions, and interact with potential employers.
But don’t worry, you’ve got this! Here’s how to stand out and nail those U.S. job interviews like a pro:
Research the company: know your potential employer
Just like in the Philippines, you’ll want to research the company before the interview. However, in the United States, this is a critical part of your preparation. Employers expect candidates to know about the company’s values, mission, and recent news.
According to a survey by CareerBuilder, half of hiring managers know if job candidates are a good fit for the company within five minutes of a job interview. One good impression an applicant can show is his knowledge about the potential employer.
Not doing research can signal a lack of interest or effort, which can hurt your chances of standing out.
Before the interview, take some time to explore the company’s website, social media, and recent appearance in the news. Prepare a couple of questions about the company or role that show your genuine interest.
Be ready to answer behavioral questions
In the U.S., employers often use behavioral interview questions to assess how you handled situations in past jobs.
Recent data from the Society for Human Resource Management reveals that more than 80% of Fortune 500 companies incorporate behavioral interviewing techniques into their hiring process.
This includes questions like “Tell me about a time you had to deal with a difficult coworker” or “Give me an example of when you had to solve a problem under pressure.”
Expect questions like:
“Tell me about a time you solved a problem at work.”
“Can you describe a situation where you worked as part of a team?”
“How do you handle stress or tight deadlines?”
In the Philippines, interviews might focus more on your technical skills or qualifications, but in the U.S., the emphasis is on how you approach work challenges and interact with others.
The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is a great way to structure your answers.
Think of specific examples from your past jobs, even if they were in the Philippines, that highlight your skills and problem-solving abilities.
Speak confidently and clearly
In the U.S., speaking clearly and confidently is crucial. While Filipinos are known for being humble and polite, American employers expect candidates to promote their skills confidently and speak up. Don’t be afraid to talk about your achievements and the value you bring.
Practice answering common interview questions in English, and if you’re not confident in your accent, consider rehearsing with a friend or using resources like YouTube to refine your pronunciation.
Show enthusiasm (but don’t overdo it)
In the Philippines, showing respect and not being too forward is key in conversations, but in the U.S., enthusiasm and excitement for the role are important. Employers want to know that you’re genuinely interested in the job, but be careful not to go overboard. Being too eager might come off as desperation.
TSmile, maintain good eye contact, and show interest without seeming too pushy. A simple “I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team” goes a long way.
Be yourself, but stay professional
In the U.S., there’s a balance between being professional and being personable. While it’s important to dress appropriately and remain formal, U.S. employers also appreciate candidates who are relatable and easy to talk to. It’s okay to show your personality, but always keep it respectful and professional.
Tip: In the Philippines, interviews may have a more formal, almost ceremonial feel, but in the U.S., you can expect a more relaxed and conversational tone. Still, maintain professionalism, especially in your demeanor and dress.
Address the salary question with confidence
In the U.S., it’s not uncommon for employers to discuss salary expectations during the interview. This might feel a bit different from the Philippines, where salary discussions often happen later or during the negotiation phase.
Be prepared with a range of salaries for the role based on research from websites like Glassdoor or Payscale. If you’re unsure, it’s okay to ask about the company’s salary range, but be confident when responding.
Be prepared for cultural differences
U.S. companies value diversity, but they also expect candidates to fit into the workplace culture. This may be different from the Philippines, where the hierarchy and family-oriented values are often more prominent. In the U.S., teamwork, independence, and innovation are valued traits.
TShow how you’ve worked well with diverse teams or have taken initiative in past roles. Employers in the U.S. appreciate independent problem-solvers who can contribute to the team but also work autonomously.
Follow-up: The power of thank you notes
In the Philippines, a follow-up after an interview is often not expected. However, in the U.S., sending a thank-you email after the interview is considered polite and professional. It’s also a great way to reiterate your interest in the position and remind the employer of your qualifications.
Keep your thank-you note brief and sincere. A simple, “Thank you for the opportunity to interview for [Position]. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team” goes a long way.
Final thoughts
Job interviews in the U.S. can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and mindset, you’ll be ready to make a great impression. For Filipino newcomers, it’s about blending your strengths—like your hardworking nature, strong communication skills, and cultural respect—with the expectations of U.S. employers.
With practice and a bit of cultural adaptation, you’ll be on your way to landing your dream job in no time!