I Got My Company to Sponsor My Job in TV Advertising and You Can TOO!
After spending weeks preparing for an interview and landing a job offer, imagine hearing your employer say they won’t sponsor your visa. Time is running out. What do you do?
This was the situation faced by Nhu Ngo, my guest on Episode 4 of Landed, a video podcast about finding jobs, sponsorships, and navigating life in the UK.
But here’s the plot twist: a few weeks later, her employer changed their mind. They raised a business case to sponsor her visa, and now she’s thriving as an Account Manager in TV Advertising at a leading agency.
Lesson learned: Anything is possible, and a strong first impression can make all the difference.
1. Job Applications
Apply directly. Avoid using LinkedIn’s "Easy Apply" feature. Instead, go to the company’s website to submit your application.
Think outside the box. Attend industry events, learn key jargon, and use modern tools like LinkedIn, podcasts, and even TikTok to research and showcase your enthusiasm with concrete evidence.
Be proactive. Look for mentorship programmes and insight days that companies offer. Keep an eye out for Facebook groups where job postings may also appear.
Leverage community and networking. Connect with professionals in your industry both online and offline. Attend events and engage with industry communities. Many people are willing to share advice or open doors if you approach them politely.
By following these strategies, you can:
Get specific. Dive deep into your industry and uncover hidden opportunities. Many fields, like advertising, offer niche roles that provide a unique edge for specialised candidates.
2. Securing Visa Sponsorship
Showcase first, discuss later. Impress the interview panel with your knowledge and skills before bringing up visa sponsorship. Timing matters.
Be “your own lawyer.” HR teams may lack expertise in visa processes. Be prepared to present clear documentation and provide credible sources, such as government websites, to support your case.
3. Adjusting to Life and Work in the UK
Unlearn and adapt. Adjust to cultural norms and workplace etiquette. For instance, UK workplaces often use first-name informality, which can differ significantly from hierarchical cultures like Vietnam.
Be open to change. Embrace new ways of thinking and working, even if it means letting go of old habits.