Job Hunt 101

Admissions are rolling in, and we are the ones sending out decision letters to universities this time. Some of us are already expected to pick our electives, and the countdown to the D-day has begun. Throughout the application process and in life in general, we know that time is of the essence. The early bird does get the worm, and now that we have reveled in the happiness of reading acceptance letters, it is smart to equip ourselves with knowledge of how to go about looking for jobs once we are in university. It is recommended that you start your job hunt two semesters or eight months prior to your graduation. Here are more tips on navigating the job market through various options and being one step ahead.

Career fairs

Watch out for career fairs! These 2-day events are conducted within the university and each year, about 150 to 200 companies visit the campus to scout for fresh talent. It is impossible for a student to check out each of the 200 companies in such a short time. So, it will be easier if you break down the process:

• Filter your options: Filter for companies that hire international students. Then, filter companies based on the kind of vacancy they are looking to fill: internship or a full-time role. Your university’s portal should be able to give you this information.?

• Prioritize: Once you narrow down the companies, decide which companies’ stalls you want to visit on Day 1 and Day 2. You will only have time for about 12 companies each day, so you must prioritize wisely.?

• Elevator pitch: Prepare your elevator pitch that is not more than 30-45 seconds long. In the pitch, introduce yourself precisely. Speak about what you do, your skillset, what you want to do in the future, and what you want from the person you are talking to (call to action).?

• Research: Once you finalize the companies you attend, it is important to know the background of each company. If you have researched the company well, you will be able to talk more convincingly about how the company’s ideals align with your goals and how you are the right fit for the job.

• Make the most of it: If you do plan to attend 12 companies each day, keep 15 to 20 copies of your resume with you.
• If you have shared your resumes with the companies on your list and you still have time on your hands, you can randomly distribute your resumes in the stalls of other companies that may have caught your interest.?

• Follow up: Once you attend each company’s stall, follow them on LinkedIn and leave them a message.
• Strategize: Often, the most coveted companies will have the longest queues. For example, if a company like Tesla is coming to your institution, every student would want to apply for it. In this case, make sure that this is the first stall that you visit on day 1. To do this, it is helpful to turn up at the venue an hour before the fair starts so you’re among the very first applicants at the Tesla stall and you don’t have to waste time just standing around.?

Networking

Networking is an essential skill that you need to polish during your graduate experience. Being part of an active alumni committee and other clubs will give you an edge over others. It can be a long-drawn process that will need strategizing, persistence, and patience. Here’s a generic checklist that you can follow:

• Do your research: Prepare a list of companies you are interested in. Find the respective HRs and reach out to them on LinkedIn, Glassdoor, etc. Connect to them and feel free to leave them a message introducing yourself, explaining that you are from xyz university, and specify the position that you are looking for. Also, mention your skills and any relevant experience in it. Do not forget to attach your CV to this message.?
• Ramp up your LinkedIn: Your updated CV must be linked to your LinkedIn profile where-in your summary must be about 4-5 lines long. This can contain your skillset, and specific keyworks for job roles, eg. Data scientist, or software developer.?
• As a rule of thumb, your LinkedIn profile must be updated at all times with an updated CV attached. Have a professional display picture, as presentation is important.?
• Take the LinkedIn assessment tests/LinkedIn learning as they help you stand out from other applicants.
• Connect with professionals on LinkedIn using keywords such as the job role that you are looking for your location. For example, keywords could be “software developer” and “New York”. Send them a connection request with a personalized message.?

• Showcase your experience: In the projects or experience section, don’t mention just the titles or job roles. Explain the key points like what your roles and responsibilities were at the job. Always give quantifying data wherever possible.
• Gather reviews: Do take testimonials and recommendations from your previous employers and professors to add to your profile.?

Applying online.?

Universities will have designated job portals. Make sure you check this constantly and apply as soon as vacancies open up.?

If you want to apply to certain companies and do not know about their job openings, type company name, and careers on a regular google search. However, this is the least recommended method. These companies have an automated application reader and when you don’t fit all the parameters and their keywords don’t match, you will get a mass rejection email. So, don’t spend too much time on this.?

Referrals.?

This is the most reliable and effective way to procure a job. If your networking is strong while you are in university, you will have better referrals and thus a better chance to land a desired job. Always maintain an alumni network database. Participate in academic as well as extracurricular events and activities, and take part in clubs and mixers. Making friends with seniors and keeping them in good stead will help you get referrals from them and with referrals, there is a huge likelihood that you might get a direct interview call. Lastly, don’t burn bridges.?