After successfully submitting my 100th job application, I wanted to formally look at how my excel sheet of applications has morphed over time. By realizing my mistakes, I can give advice to others as they begin their job searches in college.
- Figure out what you want. In the beginning, I applied to a lot of programs or jobs I had heard might be good, or that my school may have recommended, but not what I wanted out of a job. I even applied to jobs in random spots around the country that I wasn’t sure I’d relocate to. But after some soul searching, I figured out what I wanted in a job. Although I’m open to speak with anyone about a job they think I might be qualified and interested in, my search has been focused on finding a job in an entry-level marketing position in the Boston area. This has given me direction in my search and wastes less time in the long term.
- Apply for jobs you want. My ability to write enchanting cover letters really depends on my interest in the job. I think I’ve come to realize that employers can tell when you’re not particularly enthused about a position, and I focus to not waste my time or theirs on the application process. This way, I’m more likely to get a job and more likely to get a job I want.
- Sometimes, Craigslist advertisements do get back to you. There is a large negative stigma against using job boards to find a job because you put your resume into a sea of responses, and likely never hear back. While I would deter people from using the large resume boards like Monster and CareerBuilder (unless you want a career selling insurance or financial services) Craigslist has worked out okay for me. The postings are targeted by location, and the marketing/pr/advertising section appeals to my wide range of interests. Also, if you’re looking for a smaller work environment, I’ve found many small companies post on Craigslist because it’s free and simple. When applying to positions on Craigslist, focus on being memorable in the body of the email so that the hiring manager decides to open your resume and cover letter. I’m sure, because of the nature of job boards, companies receive a sea of lame messages, and yours could easily stand out.
- Networking is still your best friend. Make connections every which way- even if you’re an undergrad and have no idea what you want to do later in life. You are always more likely to hear back from a company if you have been sent through someone personally, versus a job board or generic HR email address. And, besides, networking makes for a fulfilling interconnected life.
In the end, do your best not to look at the number. You’re still awesome, you still need a job, so you’re still going to apply, no matter how many jobs you’ve applied to.