"With MTOP, everything felt different: the career coaches really paid attention to details and provided tailored advice."

 

#mtopstorytelling tells the stories of our MTOP associates.

Be inspired by our MTOP stories!

What is your name, how old are you, and where do you come from?

My name is Shahin and I am from Iran and I turn 38 next week.

What did you study or work on in your home country?

I worked with the United Nations, specifically UNFPA, in my home country. Academically, I completed a Master’s degree in Translation Theories. Later, in Austria, I earned a second Master’s degree in Executive Management at FH Wien WKW.

Since when have you been in Austria, and what circumstances brought you here?

I have been living in Austria for several years.

"I realized that learning German was the key to integration, so I studied intensively for about two years until I reached the B2 level."

 

What was your biggest challenge when arriving in Austria? How did you deal with it?

The biggest challenge was definitely the German language. At first, even simple things like grocery shopping were difficult. I realized that learning German was the key to integration, so I studied intensively for about two years until I reached the B2 level. This not only helped me communicate better but also gave me a deeper understanding of the Austrian culture.

How did you hear about MTOP? How did the program support you or in what way was it helpful?

A career coach from the University of Vienna recommended MTOP to me, mentioning its high success rate. Before MTOP, I had worked with several coaches in Austria, but none of those experiences were truly helpful.

MTOP was a turning point for me. At that time, I had already applied for about 200 jobs over 3-4 years without success. With MTOP, everything felt different: the career coaches really paid attention to details and provided tailored advice. I learned how to write motivational letters using the right keywords, how to highlight my strengths in relation to a job description, and how to present myself in the best possible way.

What impressed me most was their continuous support. Even after I found a job, they stayed in touch and helped me navigate challenges with my employer. Thanks to MTOP, I was able to leave a role that wasn’t right for me and move on to one that truly matched my skills and aspirations.

What was your path to MTOP / what are you currently doing?

When I joined MTOP, the very first job I applied for turned out to be the right one. Within a month, I landed my dream job as a Sales Specialist in an international company.

How do you like your current activity? Could you tell us a little bit about it?

I really enjoy my work. As a Sales Specialist, I participate in tenders, win projects, and help deliver healthcare equipment to people who need it.

What is the nicest part of your job and what is the biggest challenge?

The nicest part is knowing that I am doing something meaningful. I can use my skills, put them into practice, and continue building my career. The biggest challenge has been adapting to a new work environment.

In what way does Austrian work culture differ from that in your home country?

I think.. (he is laughing).. 

The division where I work is very international and diverse, so it doesn’t feel “typical Austrian.” People from different backgrounds get along very well, which I really appreciate.

What goals are you pursuing for the near future?

I want to continue expanding my education and specialize further in my field.

"Even after finding a job, LinkedIn is important because colleagues and future employers often connect with you there."

Do you have a LinkedIn profile, and did you use LinkedIn for your job search? Why do you think it is good to have a LinkedIn profile? How helpful was LinkedIn for you during your job search, and why?

LinkedIn is like your CV online, recruiters always check it, whether you like it or not. It definitely influences your job search journey. Even after finding a job, it’s important because colleagues and future employers often connect with you there. LinkedIn is such an important tool.

What tip or advice would you give to people who are new in Austria?

Definitely improve your German, and try to connect with people, even if it feels difficult at the beginning. Those connections will help you grow both personally and professionally.

Do you have a life motto or a particular attitude towards life?

"If you are brave enough to take chances, you will definitely find success at least to some degree."