Everyone knows that engineering is a competitive field to succeed in. The field of engineering is continuously changing, so engineering staffing is a constant need. Everybody wants to be the best, and potential employers want to hire the best. Everyone also knows how intimidating applying for, interviewing for, and starting a new job can be. So, we’ve gathered a few tips for you to land your first engineering job.
Finish your degree
It probably seems obvious, but it can certainly be harder than it sounds. If you still happen to be in high school, look into the possibility of taking some general education classes ahead of time. Get the easy courses out of the way, so you can focus on what you’re there for: a degree in engineering.
On the other hand, if you already are a college student, and regardless of whether you took advantage of these opportunities while you were in high school, you still have a chance to make your collegiate career progress faster. Often, you will be able to choose your schedule and course load. In some cases, you will even have the option of attending classes year-round, making it so you can complete your degree and graduate even sooner.
Find an internship
Ideally, you would have internships throughout your college years, but even if you don’t accomplish that then, there is still time after graduation. Internships will not only help boost your resume when it comes time for interviews, but they will also grant you invaluable experience.
Network
As with any career field, who you know has an impact on the jobs you’re considered for. Knowing the right people can launch your career, so it is immensely important to keep in touch. It can be awkward and uncomfortable reaching out to your superiors, but it will make you stand out. Taking the initiative to launch your career will show future employers that you are serious.
Apply for jobs
Time spent on internships will also give you the opportunity to scout businesses you may want to work for, as well as narrowing down the ones you have no interest in working for.
As odd as it sounds, acing a job interview and landing your first engineering job will depend on your potential, more than your accomplishments. Of course, your previous successes will help influence their decision, but you have to remember that this is their first time meeting you. An excellent first impression means everything.
Nail your interview
The final step for landing your first job as an engineer is to nail the interview. Maybe you’ve been lucky enough to have received a job offer through your internship, and perhaps you’re on your own. That’s okay! As long as you use the tools we discussed earlier, and you will be well on your way to your first day on the job.
You have some critical work to do before even entering the interview room. It is your responsibility to tailor your resume to the job you are interviewing for. If you want to go the extra mile to ensure everything is in order, you can perform an instant background check on yourself. This way, you will know exactly what information your interviewer will already have.
If you have any anxiety or uncertainty before your interview, see if your college or university offers mock interviews. Here, you will be able to ease your concern, and while being thrown in the middle of an intense interview that will test your abilities and have no consequences toward your career. However your interview may go, we wish you luck in your new career journey!
