Immigrants and their challenges

People relocating to rich economies like the U.S. is not a new concept. It’s been happening for hundreds of years, with immigrants leaving their native countries forever because their new countries represent their future.

They come as individuals, couples, or as a family for their own and their family’s better future, irrespective of their age, class, cast, color, religion, or creed in hope that their new home helps them achieve their dreams. They not only leave their home country which has been their comfort zone, but they also leave their biggest treasures their loved ones, friends, acquaintance’s and contacts. What they bring is what they think is most essential, for some it’s their degrees and impressive work experience. For others it’s their ability to work hard despite having little formal education. Regardless, they bring all that they have to make their new country better.

The United States of America is a super power, rich global economy and a land of opportunities. That’s why it has been an employment hub for thousands of people pouring in from different parts of the world every day. These immigrants bring the United States a delicious rich flavor of different cultures and languages. It also brings a wealth of qualifies foreign talent who have boosted American economy and will do so for years to come.

That’s why it is a proven time and again immigrants uplift the U.S. economy, making it strong and successful. The values that immigrants bring are embedded deep down in this core belief:

UNITED WE STAND DIVIDED WE FALL.

All new immigrants come with stories like Alice’s in Wonderland. They are vulnerable and lost with a story that starts with Once upon a time we arrived by air or sea from far, far away to reach a new home that we now call our home.

Many face and ultimately overcome common challenges, such as legal issues, language barriers, job search challenges, employment gaps, networking fears, a lack of local referrals, cultural differences, discrimination and ageism. Those who face fewer issues (because they are more highly educated or are sort after) are still challenged by cultural differences and frustrating difficult employment practices – like requiring local permits. These are resolvable issues that never seem to be resolved. 

Yet, despite these challenges, immigrants have always persevered, found jobs and worked hard to succeed. That is until a new mindset took hold where many people believe that immigrants take jobs and hurt the economy. Those with this opinion have mistaken mindset that…

DIVIDED WE STAND AND UNITED WE FALL.

The challenges faced by the new comers to the U.S. these days is very hard to overcome. We are often made to feel unwelcome and un-hirable … and that our talents are not needed. But, by not hiring immigrants, the whole economy will suffer.

We won’t be able to shop in area stores or buy American products. Companies will be understaffed and unproductive and most importantly not benefit from foreign born education and talent. It will result in one failed company after another, leading to a crisis. And it’s all so unnecessary. 

We live in an age where the WORLD IS TRULY A GLOBAL VILLAGE, where international professional talent can bring their skills, experiences and education to help companies succeed.That’s why hiring immigrants and investing in their training is more effective, productive and profitable.  

Your company will gain loyal, permanent employees …. and thankful customers for life.

"Give me your tired, your poor,

Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,

The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.

Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,

I lift my lamp beside the golden door!" 

From The New Colossus sonnet by Emma Lazarus. It is engraved on the Statue of Liberty.  

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Guest post by Fatima Oberoi.  (Thank you, Fatima!)

Fatima is seeking a Content Management, Social Media Marketing or Digital Strategy position in St. Louis, Missouri, or she can work remotely. She is authorized to work in the United States. Feel free to connect with her on LinkedIn. 

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