Applying to additional roles doesn’t ensure success.
Why: Applying to roles should be a strategic process. Before hitting submit consider how your unique experiences and skillsets relate to the role you’re interested. Search for fit. If you’ve applied to 75+ roles and haven’t heard back it may be useful to explore related positions and leverage similar skillsets.
Actions: Have you tried using www.onetonline.org to find “similar job titles”? Often organizations use different titles to label similar roles. For example, Mechanical Engineers might also be: Design Engineer, Equipment Engineer, Mechanical Design Engineer, Mechanical Designer, Product Development Engineer, Product Engineer, Project Engineer, Test Engineer
Recruiters know your engagement even if they don’t respond to you.
Why: Recruiters are busy people! It’s not uncommon for them not to respond to your outreach. This doesn’t mean they don’t see your outreach or active participation at events. They see what you are doing!
Actions: Continue actively participating in your job or internship search! Plan and attend info sessions, fairs, and networking events as well as actively participate at these events. Personalize outreach messages, calls or emails instead of using a generic or automated response.
Know how to search for Recruiters.
Why: Using key job titles like “University Recruiter”, “Campus Recruiter”, “Early Talent Programs”, “Internship Programs” are all helpful in identifying who you might connect with via LinkedIn.
Actions: Search for organizations of interest on Handshake first – sometimes recruiters will list their contact information there. If you can’t find this information, try using LinkedIn by visiting a company’s page and searching for the titles above.
Always Submit a Cover Letter
Why: A cover letter allows you to express why you’re the best fit for the role and to highlight your skills and passion.
Actions:
- Research the company and address specific challenges or goals they have in your cover letter.
- Avoid repeating verbatim what’s on your resume. Instead, use the cover letter to explain how your experience aligns with the role. Use the Cover Letter Guide on the website if you’re stuck.
- Mention a personal connection to the company if applicable (e.g., a project, a shared value, a connection, or an event you attended).
