Photo: John Krasinski as Jim Halpert in The Office sitcom (2005)
Job search can be daunting and feel like an endless cycle of rejections. As a former recruiter, I know a few tips that can help you break out of that cycle of applications and get to the real conversations. Whether you're navigating a career pivot or embarking on your first job search, here are five impactful strategies to help you land the role you deserve:
1. In-person over everything
In-person events, conferences, career fairs are where lasting connections are built. Even if you just reach out to someone, try planning time to get coffee in-person or visit them at their office. Online applications can work, but face-to-face connections are 10x more memorable.
Even as you prioritize in-person connections, continue sending out applications. Every interaction or application increases your chances of finding the right fit but finding the right combination of in-person and online connection is the sweet spot.
2. The Art of Consistency: Always Follow Up
After meeting someone at an event or applying for a job, don’t let the interaction fade. A thoughtful follow-up email or LinkedIn message can quickly make you stand out. My best advice on this as a former recruiter as someone who’s searched for jobs – be quick and consistent about following up. Ask for their email to stay connected, send a “thank you” note, connect on LinkedIn if you don’t have their email. Send another note a couple weeks later–keep the relationship warm! It shows initiative and keeps you top of mind.
3. Rejection is Redirection: Build a Resilient Mindset
The “thank you for your time” rejection emails are just a part of the process. Think of why you might not have gotten the job–did you already interview, was the rejection during the resume screen, and did this role really fit your background and experiences. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback if you were already in interview stages. But also –just remember that there are so many other factors that probably have nothing at all to do with you! Know that what’s for you is for you! Every application you send out is another opportunity for success. Don’t let rejection slow you down. Treat each new application as a fresh start.
4. When you get a Yes, Come Researched and Ready!
Research the interviewer, their background, their team, and especially the company. Preparation sets you apart. What recent projects or successes has the company had? Did the interviewer just get this role and is currently hiring for the first time at this company or have they been there 10 years and are foundational to the team?
Having this information allows you to tailor your responses and ask insightful questions that leave a lasting impression. For example: “I saw that you were just promoted to Director this summer, congratulations! What challenge are you hoping to solve on the team?” The manager would be like “wow, they really did their research!”
5. Don’t give up on coffee chats – how I did 11 coffee chats to land my first job post-college
My first job out of college, I did 11 coffee chats before they put me in the official “interview process”. I met the company at my college career fair in October, then I skipped class to go to their after-event at Starbucks and connected again that same day. From there I stayed connected and emailed the main contact once a month. If I were in a city where I knew they had an office, I would say, “I’ll be spending my holidays on the west coast! I’d love to go visit the office and meet some team members.” Of course it was not formal interviews, but each of those conversations showed how interested and serious I was, and more importantly, it kept me top of mind! The job application didn’t open until March, but by that time I had visited two offices in two different cities and met 11 team members.
Treat each connection with the same level of care and interest as you would a real interview–have your elevator pitch ready (that’s where The Dev Difference comes in handy ;), ask thoughtful questions, and leave them with a lasting impression. That’s how they pass your name along and keep you in mind.
At The Dev Difference, we’re here to support your journey. Let us know: Which of these strategies will you try first?
—
This article was written by Jovanay Carter, Co-Founder and CEO of the The Dev Difference. Check out thedevdifference.com for AI-based mock interview prep and more job-related content.
Comentarios