Many US jobs are filled by people someone already knows. Online applications matter, but people get you interviews. First check that your status lets you work; see Can H-4, L-2, F-2 or J-2 spouses work? and Side jobs and gig work on F-1, H-1B or H-4.
1. Use the free public job center
The US has more than 2,000 American Job Centers, paid for by the government. They offer free help with resumes, interviews, computer skills and job lists, and sometimes paid training.
Open careeronestop.org and tap Find an American Job Center.
Book an appointment or walk in. Ask: "I am new to the US. Can someone review my resume?"
2. Build a LinkedIn profile
LinkedIn is the main website for professional jobs.
Add a clear photo, a short headline ("Accountant, 8 years in banking, new to Chicago"), and your past jobs with results.
Write your foreign employers' names and one line explaining them ("largest dairy company in Kenya").
Connect with people from your university, your home country and your new city.
3. Ask for informational interviews and referrals
An informational interview is a 20-minute coffee or video call to learn about someone's job. It is not a job request, and Americans often say yes.
Send a short message: "Hi Maria, I am a software tester who just moved to Austin. Could I ask you three questions about testing jobs here? 20 minutes on video is perfect."
Ask about their work, the skills that matter and the companies hiring.
Later, if there is an opening, ask: "Would you be comfortable referring me?" A referral is when an employee recommends you inside the company. Many companies pay employees a bonus for good referrals, so it is a normal ask.
Staffing agencies (temp agencies) place workers in short or long jobs. They can be a fast first US job and reference. A real agency is paid by the employer, not by you. Never pay to apply.
Volunteering at a nonprofit gives you US references and local contacts. Only volunteer for real charities, without pay; if you are on a dependent visa, read H-4, F-2 and other dependents: what you can do without an EAD first.
Short US certificates (in IT, project management, health care, accounting software) show local skills.
Community colleges offer cheap job training.
6. Accept a step back, with a plan
Many newcomers start one level below their old job. Choose a job in your field when you can, and keep networking. Your second US job is usually easier.
Sending 200 online applications and no messages to people.
Hiding your foreign experience. Explain it clearly with numbers.
Paying "fees" for job placement or training to get a job. That is usually a scam; see Job scams and how to spot them.