Competition for engineering jobs is fierce in today’s market, and making just one mistake can ruin your chances of landing your ideal job. Here are some of the most common mistakes engineers make in their job search and tips to ensure you don’t make them.

Failing to Plan

As an engineer, you know the value of planning. Use those skills to plan your job search. Know the type of jobs you want to apply for and the types of organizations you want to work for. Set aside time each day to work on job search tasks and keep meticulous records of where you’ve applied and where you are in the process for each potential job.

Relying on Job Boards

Job boards have the lowest effective rate of landing a job. It is estimated only 2 to 5 percent of all candidates who email resumes through a job board ever get a response – including rejections. You need to diversify your search methods to make strong connections and uncover viable opportunities.

Neglecting Networking

It’s not always what you know that lands you a job, but who you know. Many high-level engineering jobs are never advertised to the public. Networking ensures you are connecting with professionals who can help you find and land unadvertised positions. Always remember, however, that networking is a two-way street. If you want people to help you, you must also be willing and able to help them.

Sending Untailored Resumes

Using generic resumes and cover letters is the best way to ensure your resume lands in the proverbial “circular file.” If you want to catch the attention of hiring managers, you must tailor your application to the specific role. Make sure you’re showcasing the skills they are looking for and you’re quantifying achievements to show the value you would bring to the organization.

The Best Way to Overcome Engineering Job Search Mistakes

It takes a lot of time and effort to conduct a successful search, which is why it is so easy to make mistakes. One of the best ways to overcome challenges is to work with an engineering recruiter.

A recruiter can help you tailor your resume, and target your search. They will only offer you interviews for roles that truly align with your skills and your goals. They also regularly recruit for positions that are not advertised to the public, and they will talk to the hiring manager ahead of time about why you are a great candidate. After an interview, a recruiter will also provide you with feedback, so you know what you did well and identify areas where you can improve.

If you are a talented engineering professional looking to grow your career, PEAK Technical Staffing USA can help you find your ideal position and achieve your career goals. Partner with our recruiting professionals today to take your job search to the next level.

About PEAK

PEAK Technical Staffing can help connect you with employers and opportunities that leverage your engineering expertise and advance your career. We partner with employers nationwide who are looking for people with your skills and experience. Since 1968, PEAK has helped engineering professionals find jobs that offer flexibility, challenges and rewards.

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If you are looking for employers and opportunities that will take your engineering career to the next level and help you to achieve your goals, contact a PEAK recruitment expert today.