7 answers
Harshitha
Student
Arlington, Texas
7
Questions
Updated
680 views
How can I smartly navigate the job search process to increase my chances of securing a job?
As a Computer Science graduate student with 3.5 years of work experience as a Software Engineer, I am actively seeking a fall internship or full-time job opportunity. However, I have been facing rejections on a daily basis. I am looking for suggestions and guidance on how to smartly navigate the job search process to increase my chances of securing a job. Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
Below is my skillset:
• Programming Languages : Java, Python, SQL, Cypher, C, C++, HTML, CSS, JavaScript
• Databases : MongoDB, Neo4j, MySQL, OracleDB
• Frameworks : Spring MVC, Spring Boot, Spring JDBC, JUnit, Hibernate/JPA, REST, Hadoop, Microservices • Tools : Git, Maven, Gradle, IntelliJ, Eclipse, Jira, Postman, VS Code, Jupyter Notebook
• Servers : Tomcat, Jenkins
I specialize in Java programming and have extensive experience working with MongoDB and Neo4j databases. These technologies are my core areas of expertise, and I am confident in my ability to leverage them effectively in developing robust and scalable software solutions.
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7 answers
Fred Rosenberger
Data Analyst
481
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Fred’s Answer
All I can suggest is keep trying. I was laid off about 5 years ago. My full time job became submitting applications. It took me five months to find a job, and I have no clue how many applications I sent out. That was with 20 years of experience.
Maybe you are aiming too high (or too low). What kinds of jobs are you applying for? Do the descriptions seem to match your resume/c.v.? Have you had someone else review your resume and cover letters? There are tools you can use to help tailor your resume for each position - try using those.
If you do get rejected, ask for feedback on why - if you are missing something, if you are coming off poorly, etc. Maybe talking to a recruiter can help, as they can shop your resume to more employers...
Maybe you are aiming too high (or too low). What kinds of jobs are you applying for? Do the descriptions seem to match your resume/c.v.? Have you had someone else review your resume and cover letters? There are tools you can use to help tailor your resume for each position - try using those.
If you do get rejected, ask for feedback on why - if you are missing something, if you are coming off poorly, etc. Maybe talking to a recruiter can help, as they can shop your resume to more employers...
With the abundance of tools available for resume tailoring, could you kindly recommend a few that have proven effective for you?
Harshitha
Thanks so much, Fred. Appreciate your guidance!
Will look into the aspects you highlighted.
Harshitha
I used https://www.jobscan.co/. This was five years ago, so things have probably changed. I am not saying this is the best, or good, or bad - just that it is the one I used.
Fred Rosenberger
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
353
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
I feel for you, Harshitha. I have some idea of what you are dealing with since I have been laid off also. To build on Fred's excellent advice:
- Build your network and tap into it. Your network doesn't have to be just people you have worked or went to school with. It could be relatives, neighbors, people in the gym, etc. You don't know where leads could come from. Be sure your LinkedIn profile is complete and marked for open to opportunities. When you see a job on a website, check to see if you know someone there who potentially could recommend you.
- See what the career centers at your undergrad and grad schools could offer you. Career centers used to help only current students, but the recessions showed them that helping alumni maintains the connection and compounds loyalty
- You highlighted your considerable technical knowledge here. In your cover letter and interviews, you should also provide examples of other kinds of skills employer seek, such as leadership, working in a team, taking initiative, problem-solving, etc. Examples should include the situation, your action, and the result.
- Take care of yourself, meaning eat healthfully, get enough sleep, and exercise. This is good advice, in general, but especially important when job-hunting. You need the strength and feeling good supports your confidence.
You will find another job -- good luck!
- Build your network and tap into it. Your network doesn't have to be just people you have worked or went to school with. It could be relatives, neighbors, people in the gym, etc. You don't know where leads could come from. Be sure your LinkedIn profile is complete and marked for open to opportunities. When you see a job on a website, check to see if you know someone there who potentially could recommend you.
- See what the career centers at your undergrad and grad schools could offer you. Career centers used to help only current students, but the recessions showed them that helping alumni maintains the connection and compounds loyalty
- You highlighted your considerable technical knowledge here. In your cover letter and interviews, you should also provide examples of other kinds of skills employer seek, such as leadership, working in a team, taking initiative, problem-solving, etc. Examples should include the situation, your action, and the result.
- Take care of yourself, meaning eat healthfully, get enough sleep, and exercise. This is good advice, in general, but especially important when job-hunting. You need the strength and feeling good supports your confidence.
You will find another job -- good luck!
Thanks for the help.
Harshitha
Banny Larios
Manager, Tech Care
4
Answers
Guadalajara
Updated
Banny’s Answer
Fantastic question! I completely understand how it can be disheartening when things don't go as planned despite multiple attempts. But remember, persistence is key! You've got this!
I've been through the interview process myself and have recently been promoted to my current role at AT&T. I strongly encourage you to thoroughly prepare for the interview. I can see that you possess a wealth of skills that are definitely in demand! Let's harness these skills to elevate your performance and prepare effective responses to common interview questions, such as:
"Tell me about yourself": This is a question you can almost guarantee will be asked! Remember three key points: 1. They're asking about your professional persona. 2. Share your career journey, starting from your most recent role to the oldest one that aligns with the job requirements. Make sure to read the job profile thoroughly and highlight the impact of your actions. The STAR method can be very helpful here! 3. Conclude your response with a compelling pitch statement! Why are you the best candidate for the role? Let's see how this might sound:
1. My name is Harshitha, a Computer Science graduate student with 3.5 years of work experience as a Software Engineer.
2. I have a strong focus on Java programming and extensive experience with MongoDB and Neo4j databases. I'm currently a Software Engineer at (Company), where I've developed several apps such as (Names). These apps have significantly improved customer experience, with a noticeable percentage improvement within the first week.
3. The role you're offering caught my eye because it aligns perfectly with my strengths, and I believe I can make a significant impact in a short period of time.
For more tips and best practices, I highly recommend the YouTube channel 'Self Made Millennial'. It's been a great help to me, and you'll find many other useful responses there.
I'm rooting for you to land your dream job soon! Best of luck!
I've been through the interview process myself and have recently been promoted to my current role at AT&T. I strongly encourage you to thoroughly prepare for the interview. I can see that you possess a wealth of skills that are definitely in demand! Let's harness these skills to elevate your performance and prepare effective responses to common interview questions, such as:
"Tell me about yourself": This is a question you can almost guarantee will be asked! Remember three key points: 1. They're asking about your professional persona. 2. Share your career journey, starting from your most recent role to the oldest one that aligns with the job requirements. Make sure to read the job profile thoroughly and highlight the impact of your actions. The STAR method can be very helpful here! 3. Conclude your response with a compelling pitch statement! Why are you the best candidate for the role? Let's see how this might sound:
1. My name is Harshitha, a Computer Science graduate student with 3.5 years of work experience as a Software Engineer.
2. I have a strong focus on Java programming and extensive experience with MongoDB and Neo4j databases. I'm currently a Software Engineer at (Company), where I've developed several apps such as (Names). These apps have significantly improved customer experience, with a noticeable percentage improvement within the first week.
3. The role you're offering caught my eye because it aligns perfectly with my strengths, and I believe I can make a significant impact in a short period of time.
For more tips and best practices, I highly recommend the YouTube channel 'Self Made Millennial'. It's been a great help to me, and you'll find many other useful responses there.
I'm rooting for you to land your dream job soon! Best of luck!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Harshitha
Don Demcsak
Cloud Architect
1
Answer
Allentown, Pennsylvania
Updated
Don’s Answer
While the responses you've received so far are valuable, they tend to be more reactive than proactive. Over the past two decades, I've consistently recommended diving into an open source project that sparks your interest and actively contributing to it. Open source projects are always in need of volunteers, making them a perfect platform to gain experience and receive guidance from seasoned professionals. Plus, it's an effective way to showcase your abilities to the public.
Most Computer Science programs often grapple with teaching students how to work on a project as a team, as their primary focus lies in ensuring you grasp the fundamentals of Computer Science. Although they might incorporate some team-based projects, these tasks usually lack experienced individuals who can foster a collaborative environment, and they don't assess your teamwork skills. These are skills you'll need to acquire "on the job". Participating in an open source project is a brilliant way to hone these skills, giving you a competitive edge over other entry-level Computer Science applicants. Also, potential employers can observe your coding and documentation practices, which is a significant advantage (I always appreciate reviewing coding samples from applicants).
Moreover, based on my personal experience, you'll naturally gravitate towards open source projects that intrigue you, providing you with experience in a problem area that you find enjoyable. Potential employers will appreciate this experience, enhancing your chances of landing your first roles in areas that you find interesting. Imagine getting paid to code in a field that you find fascinating - it's like being paid to have fun! This is an excellent way to kickstart your career.
Most Computer Science programs often grapple with teaching students how to work on a project as a team, as their primary focus lies in ensuring you grasp the fundamentals of Computer Science. Although they might incorporate some team-based projects, these tasks usually lack experienced individuals who can foster a collaborative environment, and they don't assess your teamwork skills. These are skills you'll need to acquire "on the job". Participating in an open source project is a brilliant way to hone these skills, giving you a competitive edge over other entry-level Computer Science applicants. Also, potential employers can observe your coding and documentation practices, which is a significant advantage (I always appreciate reviewing coding samples from applicants).
Moreover, based on my personal experience, you'll naturally gravitate towards open source projects that intrigue you, providing you with experience in a problem area that you find enjoyable. Potential employers will appreciate this experience, enhancing your chances of landing your first roles in areas that you find interesting. Imagine getting paid to code in a field that you find fascinating - it's like being paid to have fun! This is an excellent way to kickstart your career.
Margaret Bonaparte
PR & Marketing
4
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Margaret’s Answer
I recommend checking out Ladies Get Paid - they have a lot of free, helpful content! The organization is an incredible community of women (of all ages/levels) and offers so many resources for how to interview, negotiate, navigate a new job, and advance in your career.
I would start by watching this free interview guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXeI0DmrnF0
I would start by watching this free interview guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXeI0DmrnF0
This was super helpful, thank you!
Harshitha
Thays Moia Ribeiro
Aupair
24
Answers
Yucca Valley, California
Updated
Thays’s Answer
Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job you apply for, highlighting your relevant experience, skills, and achievements. Incorporate keywords from the job description to show how your qualifications match the job requirements.
Don't confine your job search to just a couple of platforms. Explore popular job boards, company websites, professional social networks like LinkedIn, and consider networking through personal contacts, alumni associations, and industry events.
Leverage your professional and academic network for job referrals and endorsements. Networking can dramatically boost your chances of catching the attention of potential employers.
Maintaining a professional online presence is crucial. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is current and displays your skills and achievements. Think about setting up a personal portfolio website to exhibit your projects and accomplishments.
Don't overlook the opportunity to apply for internships or entry-level positions to acquire more experience and get a foothold in the industry. These opportunities can pave the way to full-time positions in the future.
Before applying to a company, investigate its culture, values, and the projects they are involved in, ensuring they align with your skills.
Prepare for common interview questions and be ready to discuss your experiences, projects, and problem-solving skills. Display enthusiasm for the role and the company during the interview.
Keep enhancing your skills by learning new technologies and working on personal projects. This not only boosts your abilities but also shows your passion for continuous learning.
If possible, request feedback from the employers who didn't select your applications. Constructive criticism can help you pinpoint areas for improvement and boost your chances in future applications.
The job search process can be challenging, but it's crucial to remain persistent and patient. Don't let rejections dampen your spirits; keep refining your strategy and applying to suitable positions.
Job fairs and industry meetups are great avenues to connect with employers and broaden your network. Be proactive in introducing yourself and fostering relationships.
Connect with recruiting agencies that specialize in your field. They can link you with job opportunities that may not be publicly listed.
Bear in mind, the job search process can be lengthy, and rejections are a normal part of it. Stay upbeat, keep refining your strategy, and continue to highlight your skills and enthusiasm. With determination and a smart approach, you'll enhance your chances of landing a job that aligns with your expertise and interests.
Best of luck!
Don't confine your job search to just a couple of platforms. Explore popular job boards, company websites, professional social networks like LinkedIn, and consider networking through personal contacts, alumni associations, and industry events.
Leverage your professional and academic network for job referrals and endorsements. Networking can dramatically boost your chances of catching the attention of potential employers.
Maintaining a professional online presence is crucial. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is current and displays your skills and achievements. Think about setting up a personal portfolio website to exhibit your projects and accomplishments.
Don't overlook the opportunity to apply for internships or entry-level positions to acquire more experience and get a foothold in the industry. These opportunities can pave the way to full-time positions in the future.
Before applying to a company, investigate its culture, values, and the projects they are involved in, ensuring they align with your skills.
Prepare for common interview questions and be ready to discuss your experiences, projects, and problem-solving skills. Display enthusiasm for the role and the company during the interview.
Keep enhancing your skills by learning new technologies and working on personal projects. This not only boosts your abilities but also shows your passion for continuous learning.
If possible, request feedback from the employers who didn't select your applications. Constructive criticism can help you pinpoint areas for improvement and boost your chances in future applications.
The job search process can be challenging, but it's crucial to remain persistent and patient. Don't let rejections dampen your spirits; keep refining your strategy and applying to suitable positions.
Job fairs and industry meetups are great avenues to connect with employers and broaden your network. Be proactive in introducing yourself and fostering relationships.
Connect with recruiting agencies that specialize in your field. They can link you with job opportunities that may not be publicly listed.
Bear in mind, the job search process can be lengthy, and rejections are a normal part of it. Stay upbeat, keep refining your strategy, and continue to highlight your skills and enthusiasm. With determination and a smart approach, you'll enhance your chances of landing a job that aligns with your expertise and interests.
Best of luck!
Thank you, Thays!
Harshitha
Jenna Tucker
Software Engineer
13
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Jenna’s Answer
Hi, Harshitha!
To balance out the discouragement, I would go to the Merit tech mentorship platform and meet with a good handful of supportive people. Everyone will have something unique to offer. They can go over your LinkedIn, resume, and specific cover letters to help you present your skills. They can do mock interviews and give feedback. They can go over your GitHub portfolio and do mock technical interviews. They can help you identify jobs and network. Do know that this year was VERY slow for tech hiring. It was not just you. And those fluctuations in the job market are most likely to come and go rather than staying steady.
https://www.get-merit.com/
~Jenna
To balance out the discouragement, I would go to the Merit tech mentorship platform and meet with a good handful of supportive people. Everyone will have something unique to offer. They can go over your LinkedIn, resume, and specific cover letters to help you present your skills. They can do mock interviews and give feedback. They can go over your GitHub portfolio and do mock technical interviews. They can help you identify jobs and network. Do know that this year was VERY slow for tech hiring. It was not just you. And those fluctuations in the job market are most likely to come and go rather than staying steady.
https://www.get-merit.com/
~Jenna