What's the best strategy?
I want to move abroad this year and wanted your guys advice on the best strategy to adopt. I'm set on 3 destinations with one being my dream city.
For more context about the different cities:
City A (dream city): I have a master's degree from a university in the city. Have friends there but they are not able I get me referrals as they work in different fields. I can have temporary work authorization but would require sponsorship in the future.
City B: Have family ties in the country. Can have temporary work authorization but would require sponsorship in the future.
City C: Have no ties. Don't speak the country's language. Have permanent work authorization.
I have tried different strategies when applying to a country you are not based in:
Putting only your target city + phone number with area code + stating work authorization (with the exact Visa)
Putting target city with no phone number + no mention of work authorization status
Putting target and current city + phone number with area code + Visa
Putting current city + phone number with area code + Visa
For the past year I've been applying to different roles, cold emailing and networking with no success. I have landed interviews (mostly in city/country A, a few in City B and surprisingly none in City 3) and even made it to final rounds but got rejected due to visa situation, lack of experience or budget freeze.
The job market is absolutely hell EVERYWHERE in the world and I'm still a junior so I know it's harder to make the move as the local talent pool is also struggling but I don't want to give up. I still see job openings I'm qualified for and I will only need sponsorship in a few years so I feel like I can do it but just need that one little thing that will unlock everything. But what is it? Is it just luck?
What's the best strategy/combination? Is there a path I haven't considered. How to best explain my situation? Is buying a phone number for the target city worth it? How about background check? If you've hidden that you don't live in the country, when do you disclose it? When they ask for in person interview? What's the one thing that will change everything?
Grateful for any advice you can have!
P.S: for people who are gonna tell me that I'm young, still have my life ahead of me and can wait until I have a better profile so companies will be less reluctant to hire international profile, I actually don't. Due to my personal situation I have a limited timeframe.
PPS: Yes, I'm pretty set on the destinations. I have lived alone abroad in the past and know what cities and countries fit my personality, background and won't stall my career (I'm an industry and from a country where perception matters a lot).