This chapter provides a thoroughly tested way to find an engineering job, using methods that are unfamiliar to most university students. To the best of my knowledge, this method has never failed when followed diligently. The practical exercises help you develop knowledge and skills that many employers look for when they ask for “experience.” You will also learn how to arrange and host a virtual meeting. This is important because most job interviews are now performed this way. Videos on this page expand on technical essentials.
It can be an emotionally draining time. It certainly was for me: it took me months to find my first job, and I was depressed and irritable. It would have been much less frustrating had I known about this job-seeking method.
Even if you don’t get a job immediately, by following the instructions in this chapter, you will be much more employable as an engineer after a few months because of the knowledge you will accumulate.
Common misconceptions
There are two common misconceptions about seeking engineering work.
- You cannot get an engineering job without relevant experience
- Engineering jobs are always advertised
Many engineering graduates feel frustrated when they find that even entry-level job advertisements stipulate relevant work experience. They ask, “How can I get experience when all the advertised jobs require experience?” Companies nearly always prefer to hire an experienced engineer. However, if they cannot find someone with appropriate experience, they will then look at other applicants, a decision that might require the provision of appropriate training.
Eighty to ninety percent of jobs are not advertised: companies rely on suitable people coming forward when they need them, or they look for suitable applicants on LinkedIn and invite them to apply. This is called the informal job market. The only way to find these jobs is through your profiles on LinkedIn and other sites such as Seek.com and networking: going out to meet other engineers and people who work with engineers, as explained in this chapter. Building your network makes you more employable as an engineer.
Applying for advertised jobs is often frustrating and time-consuming and can be a waste of effort. The employer will typically receive 100 or more applications. Even if you make the short list, you can expect to spend days on tests and interviews, and only a tiny proportion of applicants win the jobs.
Buy the book now to gain access to this essential chapter for you.
The book is available now at major online bookstores. Check prices: there are remarkable differences between them.
- Routledge Taylor & Francis (publisher)
- Barnes & Noble
- Amazon – search for the ISBN: 9781041170495 if you cannot find the second edition
Studio Lighting
Stefan Kinkhammer describes how to arrange lighting in your studio for a virtual interview or meeting with this video.
Noise canceling microphone
Learn about the value of a noise-canceling microphone from Dylan Knapp.
Lapel microphone
Learn how to use a lapel microphone instead.
Interview suggestions
Now learn about some great interview suggestions from Madeline Mann in this video.
Responding to interview questions
Learn some good suggestions for answering interview questions from Richard McMunn.
