Congratulations! You’ve made the decision to pursue a career in technology. Committing yourself to a new career endeavor is the first step – but it’s not the last. The job search process awaits. We don’t advise just firing off your resume to a plethora of applications before taking some time to refine and prepare. If you’re currently in this phase, we can help. Let’s take a look at the five biggest job search headaches that IT pros are facing – and the cures.
1. My Resume Needs Help
Your resume is important. It’s a hiring manager's first impression of you, and it can either lead to an interview or rejection. If you’re applying for a technology role, ensure your resume has been repurposed to reflect that.
Ask yourself these questions:
- What skills and experiences do I already have?
- Are these reflected on my resume?
- Am I using the same verbiage as the job postings when showcasing that information?
Additionally, ensure you have a good mix of:
- Transferable skills: These are durable skills you’ve learned from past experience, like communication, teamwork, organization and creativity – just to name a few. Be prepared to explain how these skills transfer over to the role you’re applying for.
- Technical skills: These are the hard skills you’ve learned via education, training or upskilling. This is where you list any IT certifications you’ve earned. Again, you should be able to speak to the specific skills that your certifications validate.
- Social content: Employers will look at your social media profiles. If they are searchable and visible, make sure they are clean and professional. If you have a LinkedIn profile, it looks great to be active in sharing trends and information in your desired industry.
Related Blog: How to Write a Resume When You Change Your Career: 8 Strategies
2. I Don’t Meet All of the Qualifications in Job Descriptions
Think of the requirements listed in job descriptions as guidelines. A hiring manager may list the qualifications that their ideal candidate should possess, but employers are flexible. If you read through a job description and feel that you could perform the job role well, even if you don’t meet all of the qualifications, you should apply.
Make sure your application includes some elements that will stand out to the hiring manager and get their attention. Here are a few ideas:
- Include a recommendation from someone who also thinks you can do the job well.
- Attach a brief presentation that outlines what your priorities would be on the job.
- Emphasize your willingness to learn.
- Do your research on the organization’s culture and show how you fit in.
- Be results-oriented with your accomplishments.
- Make yourself stand out in your cover letter.
Related Blog: 10 Skills You Didn’t Know Could Land You an IT Job
3. The Whole Process Takes Too Long
You’ve enhanced your resume and submitted your applications – now what? Depending on the size of the organizations you have applied to, it can take some time to hear back. This is perhaps one of the most challenging headaches for job seekers. How can you maximize this time? Keep yourself busy by:
- Networking at industry events, either in-person or virtual
- Researching other roles and organizations you’re interested in
- Training for more skills that will open more opportunities
- Being active on social media, sharing industry trends and insights
- Staying positive
Related Content: The Scoop From IT Pros: #MyTechStory
4. I Don’t Interview Well
Interviewing can be intimidating. You want to make a good impression, but often, your nerves get the best of you. Today, many interviews are conducted via video – and that’s a whole new ball game. The very best way to ensure you do well on interview day is to practice, practice, practice.
Here are a few tips:
- Practice in person with a friend: Practice making eye contact and active listening.
- Practice on video: Record yourself. Practice looking at the camera when you speak.
- Dress to impress: Regardless of the type of interview, dress up – it makes a good impression.
- Practice what you want to say: Write down responses to common interview questions and outline some points you don’t want to forget to communicate.
- Ask for the job: At the end of the interview, if you feel like it’s a good fit, ask for the job. This may set you apart from other candidates who weren’t as forward.
Related Blog: Interviewing Best Practices: Research, Professionalism and Practice
5. I Haven’t Heard Anything
If the hiring manager lets you know they will be in touch by a specific date, and that date has come and gone, it’s OK to follow up. If a specific date or timeline wasn’t communicated, wait a week or two before following up. In both cases, a brief and well-thought-out email is appropriate. Make sure you express your interest in the role and remind the recipient of the value you can offer the organization. Make yourself available for any questions or further information, and conclude by saying thank you.
Of course, not every interview results in a job offer. If you receive a “thank you for your interest” email, it’s absolutely OK to respond. Thank your interviewer for their time and consideration, ask for feedback and request to be considered for other similar positions. This can be beneficial for two reasons. First, if another position opens up at that organization, you’ve already set the stage. Second, receiving constructive feedback can help you in future interviews.
Related Blog: Job Search Best Practices: Follow-Up Communications
The job search process can be a full-time job. It takes time, effort and lots of practice. But when these things come together, the end result is worth it – and so are you.
Whether you need to make a few tweaks or give your career plan a complete overhaul, we can help. Get inspired to change your career and live your best life.
