The pandemic has brought many changes and that includes how you get hired for a new job. The days of talking to a company recruiter face-to-face will probably not be a part of the process for the foreseeable future. To be successful today, technology must become your strongest ally. From applying online to a virtual interview, the job process can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the future of job searching, UT Permian Basin’s Career Services Office is sharing 5 tips to help you land your dream job.
1. Start Early
Plan, prepare, and practice now. It’s never too early to prepare for your job search. Check out the numerous online job boards. You want to be familiar with where to look. I recommend that students occasionally get on a job board to see who is hiring. UT Permian Basin now offers a program called Handshake to students. It’s designed to connect employers and students who are looking for jobs.
It’s important to know who the big players are and what type of employee they are seeking. If you find a company that interests you, follow them on social media, sign up for job alerts on the company’s website, and connect with the team on LinkedIn. Knowledge is power! Practice your presentation skills every time you connect virtually. Make eye contact and pay attention to your surroundings. Is your appearance, and the area around you, a reflection of the professional you wish to portray? Prepare and practice now so you are at ease when interview time arrives.
2. Network & Gain Leadership Skills
Get connected on professional platforms like LinkedIn and get involved in your professional student organizations on campus. Student clubs are the easiest way for you to connect with community members and grow your leadership skills. 75% of jobs come through networking, so spending time to connect is worth the effort! Connections in your chosen field can provide insight on hiring trends and potential job openings before they post online. Applicants referred by a company employee are 40% more likely to get an interview. Internships, virtual career fairs, and attending a company’s informational session are great ways to make connections. Take advantage of knowing someone on the inside.
3. Customize Your Resume
If you are applying for five positions and sending the same resume, there is a slim chance of getting a callback. Your resume is not one size fits all! Each company has specific requirements for their position; you need to take the time to read the job description carefully so you can customize your resume to that specific position. Keywords are critical. By using keywords, describing relevant education, and including experiences in your resume and cover letter, you are increasing your chances of landing an interview.
4. By-pass the ATS
Often when you submit your application online, you are applying through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). These automated systems screen candidates for job openings. So, if you thought it was hard to impress the recruiter - try the computer, which now is the first battle in the application process. Applicant Tracking Systems find eight times more mistakes than humans find, so be diligent and proofread your resume. Choose the right file type, in most cases using a .docx file, is the best choice for an online application. Make it easy to scan (avoid using columns). Do not use any fancy formatting - unusual fonts, images (especially a photo), or hyperlinks. Applicants informed on how to take on the company’s ATS will have the best chance for victory!
5. Be Willing to Diversify
We all want to land our dream job however if that’s not available right now...be willing to diversify. Look for opportunities on how you can use your current skills in industries that are in demand while companies try to recover. Most of the experience you gain and the skills you learn are transferable. Several industries including healthcare, food retail, product manufacturing and wholesale, information technology, transportation, and warehousing all have numerous opportunities.
The best part is that you are not alone in your search. Opportunities are out there. As you prepare for your career search, take advantage of the online tools and resources such as a resume builder, or the ability to practice a virtual interview and our job board. Access these tools at any time and from anywhere. Check out these resources and more by visiting UTPB's Career Services. It is our mission to help you discover your passion, plan your future, and land your dream job.
First 5 Program Helps Prepare Children for School
The University of Texas Permian Basin is stepping up to answer a critical need in the community – make sure all children are ready for school.