One candidate was applying for analytics roles in India, while the other was applying for data analyst roles in the USA. Both had comparable experience levels, and for both candidates we followed the exact same application process.
Candidate Profiles
Aradhya
Aradhya is looking for analytics roles in India and has 1.4 years of experience. She is an Indian citizen, so she has full legal work authorization in India and does not require sponsorship.
We applied to 576 roles for her across different companies in India.
Keerthi
Keerthi is a data analyst with over 2 years of experience and is seeking job opportunities in the USA. She has work authorization through an H-1B visa, but she is not a US citizen or permanent resident.
We applied to 727 roles for her across different companies in the USA.
Application Process Followed
For both clients, we used the same structured application strategy:
- We customized the resume for every single job role.
- Each resume was edited based on the specific job description.
- We maintained an ATS score of 80% or higher for every application to improve compatibility with applicant tracking systems.
- Applications were submitted through a combination of LinkedIn, Naukri, and company career portals.
Because the process remained consistent for both candidates, the difference in outcomes became especially interesting.
Results
The response rates were as follows:
- Aradhya: 22 replies from 576 applications
- Keerthi: 14 replies from 727 applications
Response Rate Comparison
- Aradhya’s response rate: 22 / 576 = 3.8%
- Keerthi’s response rate: 14 / 727 = 1.9%
Despite applying to fewer jobs, Aradhya received significantly more responses than Keerthi.
Key Observation
The most notable difference between the two candidates was work authorization status.
Aradhya, being a citizen in the country where she was applying, had a simpler hiring profile from an employer’s perspective. Keerthi, although legally authorized to work in the USA through an H-1B visa, still faced an additional barrier because visa-related considerations often influence recruiter response rates.
This suggests that even when two candidates have similar experience levels and follow the same high-quality application strategy, location and work authorization can heavily impact outcomes.
Market Insight
Based on our observations:
- In the USA, a typical response rate for a candidate with US citizenship may average around 6%
- In India, the average response rate is often below 1%
In this case, Aradhya performed above the typical India benchmark, while Keerthi underperformed relative to the broader US benchmark, despite using the same application process.
This reinforces the idea that visa status can materially affect recruiter engagement, even when the candidate is qualified and the application is optimized.
Strategy That Delivered Results
Here is the strategy we recommend based on this research:
1. Build an ATS-compliant resume
Create a resume that is optimized for applicant tracking systems. A strong ATS score improves the chances of passing initial screening.
At Mployee.me, one of the tools used for this is ResuScan, which helps evaluate ATS compatibility and HR readiness for both freshers and experienced professionals. Aim for an ATS score of 80% or above.
2. Match keywords from the job description
Always identify important keywords in the job description that are missing from the resume. Add them naturally, especially in sections like:
- Skills
- Tools
- Technical competencies
- Project experience
This improves relevance and alignment for both ATS systems and recruiters.
3. Apply selectively, not randomly
Instead of mass applying without a filter, apply to 20–30 highly relevant jobs per day.
Prioritize roles that:
- Were posted in the last 24 hours
- Closely match your experience and skills
- Align strongly with your resume keywords
A customized resume works best when paired with high-match job applications. The jobs posted in last 24 hours were found using an AI Software Called Job Match Pro
4. Optimize your job portal profiles
Before applying, make sure your profiles on platforms like:
- Naukri
- Indeed
- Company portals
are fully optimized and aligned with your target role. A good profile increases visibility and credibility.
5. Focus on the channels that actually work
In our experience, the best results came from applying through:
- Naukri
- Company career websites
These channels consistently delivered better responses than relying on generic job search advice found online.
Final Takeaway
This research highlights a critical truth in job searching: application quality matters, but market conditions and work authorization matter too.
Even with strong ATS scores, customized resumes, and a disciplined application strategy, candidates in the USA on work visas may receive fewer responses than similarly qualified candidates applying in their home country.
That does not mean the strategy is ineffective. It means expectations must be adjusted based on hiring market realities.
For job seekers, the lesson is clear:
- Use an ATS-friendly resume
- Customize every application
- Target relevant roles posted recently
- Optimize your profiles
- Apply through the right platforms
- And understand how geography and visa status can affect response rates
