How to “Get Lucky” in the Job Search Process

Written by: Naomi Fischoff
Job Search
Image Source: R M Media Ltd

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Even if you don’t find a four leaf clover in the Arts Quad you can still get lucky with securing your summer internship or post-graduation plans! 

Often times, depending on your field, it may feel like everyone applying for a role may be qualified, and would be a great fit. However, the people that are chosen for the job didn’t rely on luck to get there, even if it sometimes may seem like it. For example, if there are 100 people applying for 10 spots in the summer cohort, you may think you have a 10% chance of getting the job, when in fact there are so many ways you can increase that “chance” to put yourself in the best position to secure the opportunity. The following ideas are great ways to ensure you the best “luck” throughout the hiring process, and the CEC is here to help you achieve that!

  1. Make sure that resume and cover letter are polished, digestible, and truly emphasize all of your experiences and how they make you the best candidate. Check out our CEC resources and make an appointment with us today to review your resume and cover letter. The more eyes reviewing them the better, so feel free to come back with multiple revisions!
  2. Network! This word may seem ubiquitous at this point; so many clubs and professional organizations on campus constantly talk about “networking sessions” and “opportunities to connect,” and this can feel quite intimidating (and oftentimes hard to see the potential benefits). But, you never know when that LinkedIn connection or informational interview with an alum will come in handy! Plus, in the first paragraph of your cover letter, or in an interview, mentioning someone you know/ how you know about the role could be that extra “luck” that pulls you through!
  3. Confidence! What better way for “luck” to play in your favor than the self-fulfilling prophecy? Go into that interview with your shoulders back, head held high, and a firm handshake (lol who knows when we’ll have in person interviews or shake hands ever again, but you know what I mean) and show that hiring manager how great you are! For practice, schedule a mock interview with the CEC before the real deal. We can tailor the practice specifically to your role, and make you feel super confident going into the real thing!

 

Happy St. Patty’s Day!

-The CEC