Although some might argue that we have got a ways to go, the U.S. is a spectacular melting pot. John Smith is just as likely to come from Taipei as Cleveland, OH. We work with a number of multi-cultural candidates who are living in the States. Malaysia, Dominican Republic, Canada you name it, we love it. That being said, here is what we want to work on with our candidates… A hiring manager or a recruiter might not ask you if you are a U.S. citizen. We might not point blank ask you if you need a Visa or sponsorship. We hold our job seekers in high regard, as they are the butter on our bread. We expect you to be candid, honest, and forthright with key information, such as needing Visa sponsorship. If you are talking to a company or working with a recruiter, it is CRUCIAL that you divulge that information from the moment of ‘hello’. The second before (or after, for that matter) the interview is not the time to let us know what is up. Needing a Visa is rarely going to be what does or does not get you the job. Being deceitful, however, will definitely cost you the opportunity. It is more apt that the deceit, rather than the Visa itself will turn off a hiring manager. To avoid this, be sure to make a Visa issue known, from day one. This way, it can be presented to all parties involved and everyone feels kosher about you and what you need. It also prepares the company for the potential added cost. If you are working with a recruiter, not telling such important information is very frustrating. When it comes down to the offer stages, it’s going to be the work that does or does not get you hired - not a Visa issue. If it is a Visa issue, you may not want to work for that company.

In sum, honesty is the best policy.