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Post College Folks: How many Job Applications?

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tittyboi
Posts: 65 - Karma: 137
For all you post college folks who else is or has gone through the job struggle? I just need to vent and see if I'm not the only person who is so sick of job apps, networking, applying online, human resources, etc. Post your:

Degree
Time out of college
# of jobs applied to
Success?


I'll start:

Degree: Environmental Science
Time out of college: 2 1/2 yrs
# of Jobs: At least 200 jobs since senior year
Success?: Well, I'm back to being unemployed so...
Dec 9 2015 9:28PM
20 6
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Sno.
Posts: 12155 - Karma: 6,152
are you kidding me? 200 jobs...you've applied for 200 jobs? How many of those did you get?
Dec 9 2015 9:29PM
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tittyboi
Posts: 65 - Karma: 137
Sno.are you kidding me? 200 jobs...you've applied for 200 jobs? How many of those did you get?


Dead serious. This field is so flooded right now with applicants.

Still waiting for that "break" getting a full time gig. 2 seasonal jobs directly related to my field, 2 other jobs not so much related but I got through networking.
Dec 9 2015 9:31PM
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.MASSHOLE.
Posts: 7481 - Karma: 11,492
Degree-Economics Major with minor in Political Science and Business Administration
Time out of college-6 months
# of jobs applied to-1
Success?-Employed

It was through a connection.
Dec 9 2015 9:36PM
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Sno.
Posts: 12155 - Karma: 6,152
Dual Major: Information Systems & Operations Management

Time since done with college: well, I started working in my field prior to completing my bachelors--so I've been in my field now for about 8.5 years.

Number of jobs I've gone for: I don't know...when I first tried for a full time gig I started with contracting. I applied for 2 jobs to get a contract gig and got interviewed for one... I got the one I interviewed for. When that assignment ended I applied for and interviewed for one other contracting assignment and got it. When that ended I applied for about 4-5 jobs, got an interview with one and got that job. Stuck with that job for six years. When I was ready to move on I applied for about 5-6 positions, got interviewed for one and got that job. I am in that job now. Since getting my current job a year ago I've applied for one other job and interviewed for it but didn't get it. It was the second job I've ever interviewed for without getting a job offer.

I feel like you need something that sets your resume apart.
Dec 9 2015 9:39PM
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juicedrummer11
Posts: 1960 - Karma: 1,331
Damn dude! thats rough. I definitely tried applying in a few different places, had a couple phone interviews before i landed my current gig but not that many.

Degree - Mechanical Engineering
Time out - little over 1.5 years
# of jobs applied - probably like between like 6 or 7
Been employed since two weeks after i graduated..
Dec 9 2015 10:34PM
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soulskier
Posts: 17806 - Karma: 3,841
Criminal Justice

4.5 years

Three out of three jobs...acquired

Success : ... I'm happy...ok?
Dec 9 2015 10:45PM
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cornholio
Posts: 3952 - Karma: 3,057
tittyboiDegree
Time out of college
# of jobs applied to
Success?


civil engineering
8 yrs
senior year school job fair and career services hustle- had around 8 interviews on campus, another 5 or so made 2nd round interviews on site, had offers from 4, chose 1
been employed since graduation so successful
Dec 9 2015 10:57PM
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Sno.
Posts: 12155 - Karma: 6,152
Sorry, I posted my majors not my degree...its a BBA
Dec 9 2015 10:59PM
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--ski--
Posts: 1670 - Karma: 817
Bachelor of Commerce > Masters in Applied Finance and Economics.
6 months maybe?
Applied for 2.
Got 2.
Dec 9 2015 11:10PM
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DrZoidberg
Posts: 5675 - Karma: 4,268
I'm out a bit over a year and half.
Degree: B.S. in chemistry.
Apps: Probably like fifteen.
Success: no interviews. Currently in a mostly non related pharmacy job, aka handing out diabetes drugs. I believe there's a lot of 40-50 year old chemists with as much experience as time I've been alive, so they're scooping up anything good. Who knows though... Trying to get on that phd grind.

I'll vent and say networking is bullshit. I shouldn't have to know somebody to get a job. I should get a job cause I know my shit. I know people in every field who say they work with somebody who's only there cause they knew somebody, and otherwise wouldn't be cause they suck.
Dec 9 2015 11:31PM
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juicedrummer11
Posts: 1960 - Karma: 1,331
DrZoidbergI'll vent and say networking is bullshit. I shouldn't have to know somebody to get a job. I should get a job cause I know my shit. I know people in every field who say they work with somebody who's only there cause they knew somebody, and otherwise wouldn't be cause they suck.


I'll agree with you there, but the sad truth is that networking is clutch. Thats how I landed an interview where i am now. I knew somebody who could put me in contact with the right person. I have always been under the impression if I could just get in front of someone and talk with them face to face, the cards will fall and I should be able to land the job in question. I'm undefeated on face to face interviews.
Dec 9 2015 11:39PM
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DrZoidberg
Posts: 5675 - Karma: 4,268
juicedrummer11I'll agree with you there, but the sad truth is that networking is clutch. Thats how I landed an interview where i am now. I knew somebody who could put me in contact with the right person. I have always been under the impression if I could just get in front of someone and talk with them face to face, the cards will fall and I should be able to land the job in question. I'm undefeated on face to face interviews.


Ironically i got this pharmacy job because i knew somebody. I just feel so weird about it, not with this job but with something more in line with my degree or more serious. I feel weird about getting stuff because of who i know. I'drather earn it or something.

But... I should probably ditch any morals i still have and submit to the real world.
Dec 9 2015 11:58PM
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juicedrummer11
Posts: 1960 - Karma: 1,331
DrZoidbergIronically i got this pharmacy job because i knew somebody. I just feel so weird about it, not with this job but with something more in line with my degree or more serious. I feel weird about getting stuff because of who i know. I'drather earn it or something.

But... I should probably ditch any morals i still have and submit to the real world.


haha yeah i hear ya man. what sucks is like what you said earlier when some fuckboy who doesn't know shit get a good job over someone much more qualified. i've witnessed that a couple times with some of my friends and its the shits. but yeah, sometimes you gotta hustle to get your foot in the door and then its smooth sailing
Dec 10 2015 12:03AM
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Sno.
Posts: 12155 - Karma: 6,152
DrZoidbergI'm out a bit over a year and half.
Degree: B.S. in chemistry.
Apps: Probably like fifteen.
Success: no interviews. Currently in a mostly non related pharmacy job, aka handing out diabetes drugs. I believe there's a lot of 40-50 year old chemists with as much experience as time I've been alive, so they're scooping up anything good. Who knows though... Trying to get on that phd grind.

I'll vent and say networking is bullshit. I shouldn't have to know somebody to get a job. I should get a job cause I know my shit. I know people in every field who say they work with somebody who's only there cause they knew somebody, and otherwise wouldn't be cause they suck.


Networking does not equal nepotism.

Let me give an example. When I was a contract employee I applied for an FTE position with the federal government. I got an interview and went. I was asked to come for a second interview but turned it down and felt the job was lower than my skill level. The hiring manager agreed but said I should contact him again in a few months because a higher position was going to open and he thought I would be a good candidate. I waited around and eventually saw the posting of the job I thought he was referring to. I applied, and emailed him to let him know I applied. There were 276 applicants for that job. I am 100% certain I got an interview for the job because of my connection and conversation with that original hiring manager. The new job was as his peer...his manager was the hiring manager. He liked me from that original application and experience and so got me into the interview process in a pool of 276. I got an interview, nailed it, and got the job. I stayed there 6 years and would be there today if there were more growth potential.

Anyway...a story of networking not based on "who I knew," per se.
Dec 10 2015 12:08AM
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Monsieur_Patate
Posts: 1393 - Karma: 4,304
Degree: MSc in Marketing
5 months
150 maybe

The thing is, you need to apply efficiently, I realized that only recently.

What I was doing initially is sending out a few applications a week to job postings from Monster, LinkedIn, Indeed, etc. Let me tell you, that shit does not work. The most depressing is when you apply through linkedin because you get to see that 400 people have already applied and the posting had been up for only 24 hours.

I first thought the problem was coming from my resume or cover letter, I've worked a lot on both, got a lot of different opinions, kept improving, etc. Didn't make that much of a difference in the end. Still made it to the last round of interviews for a few positions this way (approx 3 for 100 apps total), but no offer.

What I started doing more recently is look up companies, and then check out the career section of their website to try and find a job offer for me, hoping that this is not posted elsewhere like on LinkedIn as to improve my chances my reducing the competition. It works better, I get more interviews that way.
I also got contacted by a recruiter from Adecco who saw my resume online, she's super nice and got me two interviews so far, one did not work out, and I'm waiting to hear back from the second. It's pretty cool, because it feels like you have an ally giving you advice and rooting for you, makes it easier.
My next move would be to send spontaneous applications to fast growing companies. (INC 500 list, etc). Some people say it doesn't work at all, some people say it's what works best, we shall see.

I am currently interviewing for a few jobs, hopefully I'll get an offer soon.

Bottom line is, you need to keep trying, and something will eventually come your way. But if the way you apply seems to be yielding very poor results, it might be time to try something different, otherwise you're just wasting your time.

Good luck, I'm right there with you.
Dec 10 2015 12:31AM
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californiagrown
Posts: 9794 - Karma: 2,014
tittyboiFor all you post college folks who else is or has gone through the job struggle? I just need to vent and see if I'm not the only person who is so sick of job apps, networking, applying online, human resources, etc. Post your:

Degree
Time out of college
# of jobs applied to
Success?


I'll start:

Degree: Environmental Science
Time out of college: 2 1/2 yrs
# of Jobs: At least 200 jobs since senior year
Success?: Well, I'm back to being unemployed so...


Graduated in 2010 with a Civil Engineering degree.

9 months from graduation to full time job(was working an internship 40 hrs a week, a graveyard shift 4 days a week, and an evening gig 3-5 times per week during that period. Had to hustle to pay rent.)

Probly 200 applications as well (but this was at the end of the recession)

Ive switched jobs twice now voluntarily each time and have had a very, very easy time finding exactly what i was looking for.



Honestly, how hard are you trying? Apply online, then call HR and try to get them to put you in touch with the hiring manager. I hit up anyone and everyone. Hit em up on LinkedIn. Sleuth around and make shit happen. Follow up phone calls etc.

another question: why are you intent on working in that field? you dont know if youll like it at all, you just have a view from 10,000 ft what the job entails. Start broadening your horizons and applying to anything and everything that you think would be a cool job. YOU are the one pigeon holing yourself if you are just applying for ads within your specific major.

Another question- are you looking at job opportunities nationwide? if not, why not?
Dec 10 2015 12:48AM
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Sno.
Posts: 12155 - Karma: 6,152
Monsieur_PatateDegree: MSc in Marketing
5 months
150 maybe

The thing is, you need to apply efficiently, I realized that only recently.

What I was doing initially is sending out a few applications a week to job postings from Monster, LinkedIn, Indeed, etc. Let me tell you, that shit does not work. The most depressing is when you apply through linkedin because you get to see that 400 people have already applied and the posting had been up for only 24 hours.

I first thought the problem was coming from my resume or cover letter, I've worked a lot on both, got a lot of different opinions, kept improving, etc. Didn't make that much of a difference in the end. Still made it to the last round of interviews for a few positions this way (approx 3 for 100 apps total), but no offer.

What I started doing more recently is look up companies, and then check out the career section of their website to try and find a job offer for me, hoping that this is not posted elsewhere like on LinkedIn as to improve my chances my reducing the competition. It works better, I get more interviews that way.
I also got contacted by a recruiter from Adecco who saw my resume online, she's super nice and got me two interviews so far, one did not work out, and I'm waiting to hear back from the second. It's pretty cool, because it feels like you have an ally giving you advice and rooting for you, makes it easier.
My next move would be to send spontaneous applications to fast growing companies. (INC 500 list, etc). Some people say it doesn't work at all, some people say it's what works best, we shall see.

I am currently interviewing for a few jobs, hopefully I'll get an offer soon.

Bottom line is, you need to keep trying, and something will eventually come your way. But if the way you apply seems to be yielding very poor results, it might be time to try something different, otherwise you're just wasting your time.

Good luck, I'm right there with you.


I have never done anything but applied via the "career" section of a company's website. I've always just had a handful of places I've wanted to work and just check their job boards everyday until I see what I want. I have never used monster or LinkedIn for applying--sounds ineffective.
Dec 10 2015 12:58AM
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CaptainObvious.
Posts: 5712 - Karma: 20,638
Degree: BA in English
Time out of college: two weeks
# of jobs applied to: 3
Success: within 3 days
Position: IT Software QA

On the other hand, my wife.......
Degree: dual degrees mechanical engineering/psychology
Time out of college: 4 months
# of jobs applied to: ~85
Success: only after removing her ME degree she got a job in corporate legal



Being a white male has its advantages.
Dec 10 2015 1:09AM
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californiagrown
Posts: 9794 - Karma: 2,014
Sno.I have never done anything but applied via the "career" section of a company's website. I've always just had a handful of places I've wanted to work and just check their job boards everyday until I see what I want. I have never used monster or LinkedIn for applying--sounds ineffective.


you use monster and linkedin to find out about the companies that have openings and then apply to the company website. Ive gotten interviews that way. Also never hurts to then email a few managers at that firm(figure em out by utilizing LinkedIn) to express your enthusiastic interest. Worst case, they delete your email.



Another tip, is to show some personality in your linkedin profile. Dont be a generic college student.
If you have cool shot of you skiing(not fucking urban or rails though) put that at the bottom. Add in a funny title or club you were apart of. I personally filled out my education experience all the way back to preschool describing comedically what i did and learned haha- for one 1st round phone interview it literally went like this:

Me: Afternoon, this is "Californiagrown".

HR Manager: "Californiagrown"? I FUCKING LOVED OREGON TRAIL!!! i was so happy to see that on your linkedin profile.



just gotta utilize everything at your disposal. A personality, along with looks goes a real long ways when it comes to landing an entry level job. Generally everyone is qualified, the rising stars are the smart folks with personality...
Dec 10 2015 1:09AM
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Sno.
Posts: 12155 - Karma: 6,152
What I was getting at is that finding the companies you actually WANT to work for, and then keeping an eye on their job boards, makes your statements in the interview...."I really want to work here! I'd be so good"...actually true, and you end up applying for the jobs that you actually want, are qualified for, and could get.

In other words...sure...if you apply for 200 jobs and only 50 of them you're qualified for, and only 10 of them you get interviews for and of those 10 only 2 you're interested in...your odds for success are low.

If you apply for 10 jobs, an all of them you're qualified for, are in your field, are a good fit, and of those you get interviews for 5 of them...you know all five you are interested in...your odds are higher.

So you could have better luck with 10 concentrated applications than 200 general.
Dec 10 2015 1:17AM
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AGOF
Posts: 2038 - Karma: 3,602
Just keep doing invitational events and fuck a real job

#tittyboiinvitational2016
Dec 10 2015 1:44AM
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californiagrown
Posts: 9794 - Karma: 2,014
Sno.What I was getting at is that finding the companies you actually WANT to work for, and then keeping an eye on their job boards, makes your statements in the interview...."I really want to work here! I'd be so good"...actually true, and you end up applying for the jobs that you actually want, are qualified for, and could get.

In other words...sure...if you apply for 200 jobs and only 50 of them you're qualified for, and only 10 of them you get interviews for and of those 10 only 2 you're interested in...your odds for success are low.

If you apply for 10 jobs, an all of them you're qualified for, are in your field, are a good fit, and of those you get interviews for 5 of them...you know all five you are interested in...your odds are higher.

So you could have better luck with 10 concentrated applications than 200 general.


thats in a perfect world where you already have a steady income to wait for something perfect to come around and then apply. that is a luxury a lot of people dont have, or feel they have. I certainly didnt when i came out of school.


If youre applying for 200 jobs, id assume a good share of them would be jobs you are seriously interested in haha. Shotgun approach, and then weed out options you dont like is the way to go IMO.
Dec 10 2015 1:46AM
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Sno.
Posts: 12155 - Karma: 6,152
californiagrownthats in a perfect world where you already have a steady income to wait for something perfect to come around and then apply. that is a luxury a lot of people dont have, or feel they have. I certainly didnt when i came out of school.


If youre applying for 200 jobs, id assume a good share of them would be jobs you are seriously interested in haha. Shotgun approach, and then weed out options you dont like is the way to go IMO.


That's not what I'm getting at-- what I was getting at is that if you only apply for what you really want and for what fits you the best, your odds of apps to interview go up.

If you apply for everything your apps to interview ratio goes down.

and just as an FYI-I don't think I could find even close to 200 jobs I would be seriously interested in--I don't think, anyway.
Dec 10 2015 1:53AM
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californiagrown
Posts: 9794 - Karma: 2,014
Sno.That's not what I'm getting at-- what I was getting at is that if you only apply for what you really want and for what fits you the best, your odds of apps to interview go up.

If you apply for everything your apps to interview ratio goes down.

and just as an FYI-I don't think I could find even close to 200 jobs I would be seriously interested in--I don't think, anyway.


i agree. but getting interviews for 30% of applications to the 10 companies you really, really want, is way less likely to land a job than getting interviews for 10% of the 200 applications you sent out to anyone and everyone...including those 10 companies you really, really want haha.


Im just saying its a numbers game, and when you really need a good job, you cannot afford to waste time by only applying to the companies you really, really think would be perfect and waiting to hit strike gold when there is a bunch of silver laying around... ya dig?

youre expected to change jobs a few times when youre young- youre still learning what you want, and finding new exciting opportunities. But when youre hurting for a job, beggars cannot be choosers to a large extent.
Dec 10 2015 2:33AM
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Sno.
Posts: 12155 - Karma: 6,152
californiagrowni agree. but getting interviews for 30% of applications to the 10 companies you really, really want, is way less likely to land a job than getting interviews for 10% of the 200 applications you sent out to anyone and everyone...including those 10 companies you really, really want haha.


Im just saying its a numbers game, and when you really need a good job, you cannot afford to waste time by only applying to the companies you really, really think would be perfect and waiting to hit strike gold when there is a bunch of silver laying around... ya dig?

youre expected to change jobs a few times when youre young- youre still learning what you want, and finding new exciting opportunities. But when youre hurting for a job, beggars cannot be choosers to a large extent.


yeah, I mean, fair enough. We aren't even really disagreeing.

But 200 applications? If you haven't had an interview and an offer in 200 applications, my best guess would be that for most of them you're either: a.) applying for jobs you don't qualify for b.) have some glaring shit-storm on your application (Felony, DUI)/
Dec 10 2015 2:40AM
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Twinjibber77
Posts: 6239 - Karma: 2,354
This is a sad but awesome thread. Keep on keepin' on killers.
Dec 10 2015 4:04AM
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Twinjibber77
Posts: 6239 - Karma: 2,354
This is a sad but awesome thread. Keep on keepin' on killers.
Dec 10 2015 4:07AM
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ianrich511
Posts: 511 - Karma: 723
BS in Systems Development
Applied for well over 200 jobs.
Interviewed for 3, got 3 offers.
Started working two months after graduation. Been out for 2.5 years.
Success? Well I did get to ski 11 days out west last year, which was a record for me.


One of the things that I have noticed with myself and friends, is you can't just go applying to anything that's in line with your degree. I am sure you have seen that most "Entry Level" jobs mention something like 2-3 years experience(which is BS). It's more important to get into the workforce doing something you might not enjoy all that much, than it is to wait a year till something magically opens up. Try not to assume that the first job is the last. Good luck!
Dec 10 2015 7:53AM
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iFlip
Posts: 4543 - Karma: 19,132
With 200 applications, I'm guessing (reasonably so) that you're sending generic applications with a generic cover letter. Dial it back a bit and go for quality over quantity. Find a handful of jobs you're interested in. Research those companies and departments. Write a personal, detailed cover letter (no more than a page in length). Make it sound like this is the job for you, and that you are taking it seriously. Hopefully they will take you seriously in turn.

If you land an interview, research the company again. It absolutely floors employers when you walk into your interview and can greet everyone by name, just from seeing them. Sure, this takes some effort, but with the Internet it is certainly doable.
Dec 10 2015 8:41AM
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AgitatedHiatus
Posts: 319 - Karma: 1,053
.MASSHOLE.Degree-Economics Major with minor in Political Science and Business Administration
Time out of college-6 months
# of jobs applied to-1
Success?-Employed

It was through a connection.


What is your job? I'm going to college for basically the same thing that you went for.
Dec 10 2015 9:45AM
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.MASSHOLE.
Posts: 7481 - Karma: 11,492
AgitatedHiatusWhat is your job? I'm going to college for basically the same thing that you went for.


Hedge fund that deals with the healthcare industry.
Dec 10 2015 9:57AM
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tittyboi
Posts: 65 - Karma: 137
iFlipWith 200 applications, I'm guessing (reasonably so) that you're sending generic applications with a generic cover letter. Dial it back a bit and go for quality over quantity. Find a handful of jobs you're interested in. Research those companies and departments. Write a personal, detailed cover letter (no more than a page in length). Make it sound like this is the job for you, and that you are taking it seriously. Hopefully they will take you seriously in turn.

If you land an interview, research the company again. It absolutely floors employers when you walk into your interview and can greet everyone by name, just from seeing them. Sure, this takes some effort, but with the Internet it is certainly doable.


Ah I wish I could say that but in truth I've personally tailored each of those cover letters and resumes. There is nothing better than spending a few good hours working on an application, only to never hear back. Many job posts even state "Do not call or email." And then I've called or emailed (which I think is reasonably so after putting in so much effort on my end) to check on an application, only to get that typical snobby "Yeah there isn't anything else you can do" response.

Of those 200 jobs, I'd say 75% of them I was really interested in. My job search has been fairly broad nationwide too.

Never actually used Monster/LinkedIn/etc to apply for a job. I mostly try to talk to people first, if possible, directly from the company, NGO, agency, etc. then specifically apply through their website.

And I agree to whoever said networking is BS. I've literally been told by someone before "Everyone hopes they talk to people to get a job, but look we don't all have jobs in our back pockets." It's true, most of these people don't magically have jobs, and most of the time the shit heads who do get jobs have wealthy parents who donated, volunteer, etc.


Lastly, fuck the saying of go volunteer. If I had a job with a steady income, I'd feel financially secure first, to then donate some free time. But when I'm barely scraping by anyways why would I want to volunteer at a bullshit company just to get my foot in the door. Where I'm from, "volunteer" means to actually help people i.e. soup kitchen, farm work, etc

So yah, not trying to make excuses but I'm just frustrated still feeling stuck.
Dec 10 2015 10:34AM
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Funkadelic
Posts: 1967 - Karma: 391
Degree: B.S. Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, M.S. Biology
Time out of college: 4? years out of college, 2? out of graduate school
# of jobs applied to: ~10 while still in grad school, one being an internship. ~10 while in the internship looking for a full time job.
Success? I got the internship without a connection. Used connections from the internship to land the full-time job I had after. I didn't like the consulting world after a year, quit, applied to one job teaching part time at a university and got it. I also applied to 2 substitute teaching jobs and got both. I'm now doing both of those until I get my teaching cert. so I can teach high school.
Dec 10 2015 10:56AM
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tittyboi
Posts: 65 - Karma: 137
FunkadelicDegree: B.S. Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, M.S. Biology
Time out of college: 4? years out of college, 2? out of graduate school
# of jobs applied to: ~10 while still in grad school, one being an internship. ~10 while in the internship looking for a full time job.
Success? I got the internship without a connection. Used connections from the internship to land the full-time job I had after. I didn't like the consulting world after a year, quit, applied to one job teaching part time at a university and got it. I also applied to 2 substitute teaching jobs and got both. I'm now doing both of those until I get my teaching cert. so I can teach high school.


Hey I took a few Ecology & Evolutionary Bio classes as an undergrad and was thinking of going more that route for grad school. What did you focus on?
Dec 10 2015 10:58AM
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Funkadelic
Posts: 1967 - Karma: 391
tittyboiHey I took a few Ecology & Evolutionary Bio classes as an undergrad and was thinking of going more that route for grad school. What did you focus on?


In grad school I mostly studied global change ecology. My research studied how climate change is affecting invasive vs. native plant community dynamics, plant phenology, and soil nitrogen levels. A graduate degree definitely gives you a leg up in the environmental field because it forces you to prove that you're capable of designing and executing your own, large scale study, and managing undergrad students to help you with things like field work and data collection. And getting a teaching/research assistantship pays for your schooling and gives you a stipend.

Having my experience from grad school testing soils, and designing and executing my own study is what most employers liked most. Along with my experience studying buzzword topics like "invasive plants," and "climate change." Also having excellent writing skills is something you really develop in graduate school, and shows when writing cover letters. It's probably one of the most important categories employers are looking for.

Also, in the environmental field it's no secret that it's riddled with a bunch of lazy stoners. I'm not saying there's anything wrong with smoking weed (I sure did in college), but if you can set yourself apart from the multitude of wanna-be Cali bros who talk 24/7 like they're always blazed. If when you meet potential employers you speak eloquently and are well-spoken like a businessperson or politician it goes a long long way to giving the consulting firm or whoever a good impression.
Dec 10 2015 11:21AM
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californiagrown
Posts: 9794 - Karma: 2,014
Sno.yeah, I mean, fair enough. We aren't even really disagreeing.

But 200 applications? If you haven't had an interview and an offer in 200 applications, my best guess would be that for most of them you're either: a.) applying for jobs you don't qualify for b.) have some glaring shit-storm on your application (Felony, DUI)/


Especially in this, frankly, very good economy it isn't tough to find jobs. OP is surely fucking up somewhere haha.
Dec 10 2015 11:38AM
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tittyboi
Posts: 65 - Karma: 137
californiagrownEspecially in this, frankly, very good economy it isn't tough to find jobs. OP is surely fucking up somewhere haha.


Eh I don't believe the job reports and numbers. Where are jobs being created? Mostly in the fast food, service, blue collar sector. That or super high tech, finance, business, etc.

For the rest of us folks who have no interest in business, finance, etc. it's definitely tough. Only in America (of the developed countries) do we reward those who were responsible for fucking up the economy while discounting people (financially and in terms of job availability) who want to help socially, environmentally, with the humanities, etc.

I took one economics class so please correct me if I'm wrong... My thoughts are as follows:

Lots of jobs being created generally speaking BUT look at the # of jobs being created in the 21-25ish, recent college-educated demographic versus the # of well qualified people now with good college degrees.

For example, I had a good summer internship at college with an NGO. Last winter, a one year policy fellowship gear towards a recent grad opened with them in the same department I interned with... Networked with my old boss...put me in touch with the hiring manager...seemed like we hit it off...interview... then BAM nothing! For weeks. I followed up and still nada. So finally After a few hours trying to get good contact info for HR I speak with a lady and she told me I did not get it (no surprise). Within 3 weeks of the job being posted nearly 300 people had applied. For a one year fellowship paying around $35k in San Francisco.

^Now that's just one example. I've had this happen so many times. But even gigs like that are super hard to come by and when they do open so many people jump on board
Dec 10 2015 11:53AM
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californiagrown
Posts: 9794 - Karma: 2,014
tittyboiEh I don't believe the job reports and numbers. Where are jobs being created? Mostly in the fast food, service, blue collar sector. That or super high tech, finance, business, etc.

For the rest of us folks who have no interest in business, finance, etc. it's definitely tough. Only in America (of the developed countries) do we reward those who were responsible for fucking up the economy while discounting people (financially and in terms of job availability) who want to help socially, environmentally, with the humanities, etc.

I took one economics class so please correct me if I'm wrong... My thoughts are as follows:

Lots of jobs being created generally speaking BUT look at the # of jobs being created in the 21-25ish, recent college-educated demographic versus the # of well qualified people now with good college degrees.

For example, I had a good summer internship at college with an NGO. Last winter, a one year policy fellowship gear towards a recent grad opened with them in the same department I interned with... Networked with my old boss...put me in touch with the hiring manager...seemed like we hit it off...interview... then BAM nothing! For weeks. I followed up and still nada. So finally After a few hours trying to get good contact info for HR I speak with a lady and she told me I did not get it (no surprise). Within 3 weeks of the job being posted nearly 300 people had applied. For a one year fellowship paying around $35k in San Francisco.

^Now that's just one example. I've had this happen so many times. But even gigs like that are super hard to come by and when they do open so many people jump on board

Dude, welcome to life. It's competitive. You don't deserve a good job, you have to out compete, and out sell the other folks going for that job. How can you prove you are the best candidate?

The great thing is, in this economy, there are a bunch of jobs available. Try coming out of college 2008-2011 when there actually were not jobs available... At all.

Do you have an A+ resume? If not, what other talents/skills can you leverage to make yourself an attractive candidate? What clubs/organizations are you active in? What kinda volunteer work do you do? Are you applying nationwide?
Dec 10 2015 12:17PM
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snowpocalypse
Posts: 1036 - Karma: 3,525
BS in International Finance
MBA Sports Business

Out of school for 12 years
Took three year in between undergrad and masters

Applied for three jobs out of undergrad. Got two offers.

Worked through my Masters program and have changed jobs several times. Never left a company without having another lined up.

Here's the deal guys. Too many people are just sending out mass apps to anyone. Read the description and tailor your application to each job, not just a mass reply. HR is flooded with apps every day. I know outlook is bleak for some but keep your heads up and being employed is always better than not, even if its what you feel is being under employed,
Dec 10 2015 12:54PM
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lIllI
Posts: 1255 - Karma: 1,986
DrZoidbergI'll vent and say networking is bullshit. I shouldn't have to know somebody to get a job. I should get a job cause I know my shit. I know people in every field who say they work with somebody who's only there cause they knew somebody, and otherwise wouldn't be cause they suck.


In reality, most jobs don't require a smart person. Finance, engineering, law, you name it. Any idiot has the capacity to work in these fields provided that they possess the resources and the requisite level of shit together-ness. If anyone thinks that they are necessarily an exceptionally smart person purely on the grounds of their job title, they are full of shit.

Networking is "a thing" because it weeds out insufferable candidates who feel entitled to employment based on their qualifications. If you think that your value to an organization is linearly derived from your resume, well, that probably explains some things.
Dec 10 2015 2:02PM
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KellyK
Posts: 1782 - Karma: 715
Degree: A.A. in Media Studies
Time out of college: 3 years
Apps: 1
Success: Same job with a couple promotions

I feel like I got lucky as hell.
Dec 10 2015 2:45PM
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Heart
Posts: 6156 - Karma: 3,462
About to graduate from college as a Mechanical Engineer. I was an idiot and didn't try very hard to get internships or co-ops, and my resume is a bit lackluster as a result. I've got some good leadership experience from clubs, and some independent design work, but I'm still having a tough time finding a job.

Interviewed at five companies this year - two rejected me, one invited me to an on-site but hasn't gotten back to me, and the others are MIA.

Finding a real job sucks. It's discouraging as hell to know that 90% of the time, the work you put in applying/writing cover letters/interviewing doesn't mean jack shit.
Dec 10 2015 3:57PM
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CTD
Posts: 6300 - Karma: 348
gonna be completely real here. YOU WILL NEVER GET A GOOD JOB through an application!!! they are 100% almost always trashed or filed, never to be looked at. real jobs are given to people who are passionate and INSIST on doing that particular job. Find a job you want more than anything, then pursue it 100%. Go there, meet people, talk to the owners, managers, whatever. Don't take no for an answer. Offer to do a little work for free or as a trial period so they can see how good of an asset you are. PROVE to them you will go above and beyond to get the job done. In this case, the job is getting the job.
Dec 10 2015 5:25PM
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CTD
Posts: 6300 - Karma: 348
tittyboiFor all you post college folks who else is or has gone through the job struggle? I just need to vent and see if I'm not the only person who is so sick of job apps, networking, applying online, human resources, etc. Post your:

Degree
Time out of college
# of jobs applied to
Success?


I'll start:

Degree: Environmental Science
Time out of college: 2 1/2 yrs
# of Jobs: At least 200 jobs since senior year
Success?: Well, I'm back to being unemployed so...



holy shit, you didn't realize something wasn't working around application 100 or something?!? If i heard that I would be scared to hire you. That just means 200 people have already decided not to hire you, why would I?? STOP EVERYTHING THAT YOUR DOING! not to be a dick but you are doing something very wrong here for this to be the case.
Dec 10 2015 5:28PM
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a_pla5tic_bag
Posts: 9215 - Karma: 5,398
**official thread soundtrack**

The ''all the jobs are in STEM fields" is a meme. There's not very many jobs in anything and having a bachelors is like having a high school degree. It sucks.

I ha to volunteer working in a lab for a few months and then since they like me they started to pay me and now I have a job there.
Dec 10 2015 5:30PM
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californiagrown
Posts: 9794 - Karma: 2,014
CTDgonna be completely real here. YOU WILL NEVER GET A GOOD JOB through an application!!! they are 100% almost always trashed or filed, never to be looked at. real jobs are given to people who are passionate and INSIST on doing that particular job. Find a job you want more than anything, then pursue it 100%. Go there, meet people, talk to the owners, managers, whatever. Don't take no for an answer. Offer to do a little work for free or as a trial period so they can see how good of an asset you are. PROVE to them you will go above and beyond to get the job done. In this case, the job is getting the job.

Hmmm, I've gotten my jobs through applications. I know a lot of folks who have as well. What jobs where you thinking of where the "work for free" strategy would work?


a_pla5tic_bag**official thread soundtrack**

The ''all the jobs are in STEM fields" is a meme. There's not very many jobs in anything and having a bachelors is like having a high school degree. It sucks.

I ha to volunteer working in a lab for a few months and then since they like me they started to pay me and now I have a job there.


Are you bitching about finding a good job in your field after only a few months? I honestly can't tell with that first paragraph.
Dec 10 2015 5:41PM
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CTD
Posts: 6300 - Karma: 348
californiagrownHmmm, I've gotten my jobs through applications. I know a lot of folks who have as well. What jobs where you thinking of where the "work for free" strategy would work?




Are you bitching about finding a good job in your field after only a few months? I honestly can't tell with that first paragraph.


I am an industrial designer, so this field is much more subjective. And is typically smaller businesses. I've done trial projects for companies before to make sure we can work together, not saying he should or its applicable to all jobs.

I guess I should have said (aimlessly) filling out applications. But still, every good job I have ever gotten was from walking in, saying Hi and that I wanted the job. Hand deliver the application so its clear you went through the formalities, but personal connection, via face to face or network is the key to success.
Dec 10 2015 5:53PM
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theabortionator
Posts: 51642 - Karma: 162,192
I'm not one of those, "Give up your dream and work any job forever people" but might not be a bad idea to take a 2nd or 3rd choice job while waiting to get the spot you want. It's not like you're locked down to it forever.

Also volunteering in related fields can help with experience as well as networking and getting some solid connections in your field of choice.

good luck
Dec 10 2015 6:48PM
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NEskia
Posts: 168 - Karma: 62
Took me about a year out of college to secure a job in my career path. Now I just have to work forever to pay off my student loans
Dec 10 2015 7:09PM
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DBack1321
Posts: 410 - Karma: 485
Volunteering is all fine and dandy to get experience and get your foot in the door, but he already said he is hardly making it by right now. How will giving away his time for free help him pay bills unless he has something saved up?

If if you have the means and the time, by all means volunteer, but not everyone has that luxury.
Dec 10 2015 7:17PM
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