I Had One Year to Find a Job in the UK While Studying Master's and I Did It | Landed Ep 2

Simge’s journey is a true example of what it takes to turn a long-term dream into reality.

She always knew she wanted to live in the UK, and she spent years planning and working toward that goal. Moving here from Turkey for her master’s, she had no prior work experience in the UK and only one chance to land a job before her visa ran out - graduate visa wasn’t even available back then! It was all or nothing.

Not only did Simge secure that job, but she’s since got her British passport and progressed in her career to Associate Director at a leading multinational company.

Her story is about more than persistence—it’s about playing the long game, adapting to challenges, and staying focused on what matters most.

1. Set Clear Goals Early

When Simge first visited London for a language course, she fell in love with the city's diversity and envisioned a future where she could build a permanent life there. This vision became her guiding star. Every decision she made—from selecting her Master’s programme to strategically applying for jobs—aligned with this dream.

Takeaway: Reflect on your ultimate goal. What is your ideal destination? Map out the steps that will help you align your decisions, education, and career trajectory to achieve it.

2. The Power of Persistence

Simge’s job-hunting journey was anything but easy. She applied for jobs relentlessly, sending out 10 to 15 applications every day. Over the course of her search, she faced more than 500 rejections but never let this deter her.

Her advice: Treat the job search like a numbers game. The more you apply, the higher your chances of success. Rejection is just part of the process, not the end of the road.

3. Practising Through Rejection

Rather than avoiding interviews for positions that weren’t a perfect match, Simge embraced them as learning opportunities. Each interview allowed her to refine her answers, better understand employer expectations, and grow her confidence.

Tip: Think of interviews as practice runs, even if you’re not fully aligned with the job. Each experience will sharpen your skills and prepare you for the perfect role when it comes along.

4. Navigating Sponsorship Conversations

Securing visa sponsorship can be daunting, but Simge had a thoughtful approach. She waited until she had a job offer before broaching the topic. By explaining the process clearly and emphasising its simplicity, she reassured her employer and made it easier for them to support her.

Advice for those needing sponsorship: First, focus on showcasing your value as a candidate. Once employers recognise your potential and fit for the role, they’re more likely to support your visa requirements.

5. Building a Strong Foundation

Long before moving to the UK, Simge made efforts to build a compelling CV. She pursued internships and extracurricular activities that broadened her skills and made her stand out. During one of her internships, she negotiated with her manager to work across departments, which gave her additional exposure and made her more versatile.

Lesson: Don’t just rely on basic qualifications. Seek out opportunities to demonstrate initiative and develop unique skills that differentiate you in competitive job markets.

6. Staying Flexible and Respectful

Adapting to life in London taught Simge the value of flexibility and cultural awareness. She embraced the city's multicultural environment and learnt to appreciate diverse perspectives, which helped her build stronger connections both personally and professionally.

Reminder: Living abroad is as much about adapting as it is about achieving. Flexibility, respect, and cultural awareness are essential tools for thriving in any new environment.