Getting that first engineering job is hard. Sometimes, it can feel like you are applying for employment with no hope of getting the position; however, you can do things to make yourself more marketable in the eyes of potential employers. It would be best if you stood out in a way that gets them excited about hiring you. Engineering is already one of the top-paying careers for new grads, but landing that first engineering job can be difficult if you don’t know what steps to take. Here are some ideas on how to land your dream role.
1.) Keep your resume up to date
Make sure your resume is always up-to-date. You never know when you may need it, and having a fresh copy to send out at the drop of a hat is your best shot at getting an interview. Even if you don’t think you will be looking for another job, update that old thing anyway, just in case. Your resume should be tailor-made for the jobs you are applying for. Keep adding the new skills you have acquired presently.
2.) Organizing with kin, friends, and colleagues
Organizing is an excellent way of getting that initial contact information. Many people may be willing to help you out, but they don’t know how or when to get in touch with you. Setting up a time to meet will keep the communication free-flowing between each other. Some people have information about some open slots which may come in handy you landing a job.
Networking is one of the best ways to get a job. It can take up time, but it is worth it. It would help if you researched who you would like to meet and approached them for talks about what they are doing, why they are successful etc. This way, you will have multiple contacts within your field who are willing to help you out if required.
3.) Contact An Engineering Staffing Agency
Engineering staffing agencies work with companies that are actively searching to hire qualified engineers to hire. They have close relationships with many organizations and can connect job applicants with available job openings. Most staffing agencies maintain a list of available jobs and resources that are not often available on public job posting bords and websites. It is not uncommon for engineer staffing companies to have part time and full-time jobs available.
4.) Contact your former collegemates
One of the easiest ways to get the first job is through your former college mates. They might be able to put in a good word for you or recommend you to an open position they come across. It is always a good idea to keep in contact with the people who may help you out in the future.
5.) Take some temporary job/volunteer work
Most people looking for a job do not know how much valuable time they could be wasting by just applying to as many jobs as they can without doing anything. If you have no luck finding a job, it may be a better choice to volunteer or take some temporary work till things start popping up. This way, you can keep working on your skills and knowledge while giving yourself some breathing space to find the job of your choice.
Additionally, volunteering or taking up temporary work at a company interested in you ensures you can gain some knowledge and experience about what goes into their work. Your employer might be able to give recommendations for future jobs based on the skills demonstrated in these activities, which may increase your chances of landing a job faster.
6.) Distinguish Companies of Interest
A company of interest is one with which you would love to work. You can make a list of all such companies and start gathering information about them like the culture within the company, what projects they are working on currently, who their clients are etc. By getting this knowledge, it will be easy for you in the future in case you get an interview call from that company or trying your luck in another way.
7.) Grow Your Opportunities
Avoid going for a random job that pops up on your search. Try focusing on a company or a profession that you would love to work in, and then try focusing on getting a job there. If it doesn’t happen, at least you will have tried the best option available from where there is a greater chance of success.
8.) Do not lose hope
Do not lose hope after sending out one or two resumes. The position you are applying for may be already taken, but there are chances that more opportunities are coming up shortly. As an active job seeker, it is imperative to have weekly objectives on the number of applications you will make, the number of calls you have received, emails, and any job-related offer. Once you have accomplished these objectives, sit and relax but do not relax too much. There is always another opening to apply for. Keep trying, and do not give up.
Finding a job while you are unemployed may seem tedious and arduous. Embracing the above steps might help you land your first job sooner than you expect. It may look hard initially, but if you can work it out in the long run, it may pay off well for your career. Stay positive and focused in your job search. Good luck!
