4 Locations with the Highest Demand for Engineers

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4 Locations with the Highest Demand for Engineers

 

Engineering is a field that has historically seen strong demand, but with a current unemployment rate of 1.7%, the need for talent in the field is reaching a fever pitch. Hiring managers can’t find enough engineering talent, while professionals working in the field are finding it overwhelming to sift through the sheer number of opportunities flooding the job market. While there’s a tremendous amount of excitement and activity for those in and around the engineering industry, there are a handful of locations where demand for engineers is highest.

 

 

Michigan

When it comes to engineering, the Mitten State might have more to boast about than any other place in America. Not only does it rank in the top three states that employ the most engineers, but some parts of Michigan are seeing the highest STEM employment growth in the entire country. Such statistics indicate its place as an engineering mecca will continue for the foreseeable future.

 

Of course, the rebound of the auto industry in the last several years has played a huge part in driving the demand for engineering talent. It’s why Michigan is the number one employer of industrial engineers and employs nearly twice as many mechanical engineers than any other state. Detroit and its surrounding suburbs are at the forefront of this movement. Home to the famous American names of Chrysler, General Motors, and Ford, the area also fosters demand from international companies such as Nissan and Hitachi Automotive Systems.

 

As the auto industry focuses more on technological advancements, AI, and machine learning, the need for engineering talent is rising exponentially. Manufacturing in general is moving along the same lines, as plants outside the auto industry likewise are striving to increase efficiency through the use of technology. Also considering big investments from Amazon, Facebook, and LG, it’s no wonder that Michigan sees so much engineering activity.

 

 

Texas

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and it turns out that holds true when looking at engineering demand. The state is home to the second-highest number of engineers in the entire country, with engineering employment expected to grow over 23% by 2024. While engineers are still necessary for a huge number of roles related to the oil industry, an increased focus on sustainable energy is spiking demand further. Wind and solar projects are becoming increasingly common throughout Texas. While many of these efforts are focused on the west side of the state, Dallas-based companies are the ones leading the charge and making the big investments.

 

 

Pennsylvania

When looking at employment in general, Glassdoor ranks Pittsburg as the number one place for jobs in the United States. That drives talent to the area, and when that talent is versed in engineering, there are no shortages of jobs to flourish in. While the steel industry has lost some of its luster, U.S. Steel is still an important Fortune 500 company employing many engineers in the area. In fact, Pittsburg is home to eight Fortune 500 companies including food behemoth Heinz, construction and electrical materials manufacturer Wesco International, financial giant PNC, and more. Also taking into account the thriving medical community throughout the state, Pennsylvania has a big need for everything from biomedical engineers to process engineers and everything in between.

 

 

Florida

It might be known for oranges and sunshine, but Florida is one of the top five states driving demand for engineers. The state has one of the highest demands for agricultural engineers, thanks to ideal conditions for farming that results in two million residents working in the agriculture sector. Florida’s aerospace and aviation industry is likewise a big employer of engineers, as that sector is worth over $144 billion in economic activity each year. With over 2,000 aerospace and aviation companies and more than 20 military installations, the need for engineering talent is strong. Finally, Florida is home to a number of other organizations such as telecommunications company Harris and semiconductor manufacturer Intersil which employ thousands.

 

 

The Locations with the Highest Demand for Engineers

Engineering is one of the hottest fields in the country, and it will be that way for years to come as STEM jobs are growing at more than twice the rate of non-STEM positions. Every industry relies on engineers to an extent, and many companies simply cannot function without them. As the need for engineers continues to rise everywhere, Michigan, Texas, Pennsylvania, Florida will stand out as some of the premiere destinations looking for the most talent.

 

Whether you’re looking for your next engineering role or need to fill one, Brightwing can help. Reach out to us today to get started.

 

 

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4 Locations with the Highest Demand for Engineers

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While there’s a lot of excitement for those in and around the engineering industry, there are a handful of locations where demand for engineers is higher than others.

Read more

A Better Framework for Reaching Your Career Goals

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Are you working to pay the bills or are you inspired, fulfilled, and content with your current career path? There’s a huge difference between the two, and getting from one to the other is no accident.

If you’re really serious about reaching your career goals, you need a new and better framework for getting there. Here’s what we advise.

 

Lay a Strong Foundation for Career Goal Setting

 

Author and motivational speaker Simon Sinek has a lot to say about why people fail or succeed in their endeavors. At the core, he says, success starts with finding your “why” or core purpose. This is what will direct you in both your life and your career, and it’s also the only thing that will make you feel accomplished once the adrenaline rush of promotions and raises wears off.

Closely related to this concept is Sinek’s advice to always find something better. You should never quit a job, he suggests, just to get away from it. Instead, always move on to something better, and when that’s not an option, you should use your current job as a learning experience.

Finally, he says, find a mentor. An outside perspective can help you more thoroughly discover parts of your personality and values that you should consider when determining your “why” and the career goals that align with that purpose.

 

Avoid Looking for the Perfect Job

 

Let’s be brutally honest: The perfect job doesn’t exist. While some companies have significantly better cultures, team dynamics, and opportunities than others, the trick to finding a fulfilling career is more dependent upon your own outlook and work ethic than on the company itself.

Thus, when setting your career goals, you need to be realistic about the attitude you adopt in your daily life and responsibilities. No one wants to deal with a toxic work environment, a power-hungry boss, or unreasonable expectations; but every job is going to have its challenges, disappointments, and stress. Understanding how you react and adapt to these problems will help you set more realistic career goals.

 

Adopting a Framework for Career Goal Setting

 

With the right foundation and the right attitude, you’re much closer to setting and achieving effective career goals. We return to Simon Sinek for some final advice on the specifics of career goal setting.

 

1. Think Big, Be Specific, Act Small

Creating “realistic” goals sounds sensible. However, setting the bar too low means you run the risk of never finding out what your true potential is. Sinek recommends thinking big and setting that bar higher than you’re comfortable with in order to see what you’re really capable of.

Be aware that as your goals get loftier, it’s easy to get too vague, and therein lies the danger of not reaching your target. The more specific, the better. Additionally, be prepared to act on this goal in small steps. The bigger the goal, the more bite-sized steps it will take to get there.

 

2. Use Verbs

You’ve probably heard that you should always write your goals down, and it will be tempting to simply write “a new job” or “a promotion.” The problem with goals when stated in this way is that they don’t really inspire action. Sinek suggests that when writing out your goals, you should use actionable verbs that will hold you accountable to actually doing something rather than waiting around for something to happen.

 

3. Be Patient

Big goals require patience, especially on the days when you don’t feel like you’re getting anywhere. When you’re frustrated by your progress or by roadblocks in your path, revisit your “why” to remember the core reasons you’re seeking these goals. How will a new job impact your life? What difference do you hope to make by achieving that promotion? These are big goals. Patience is key.

 

4. Measure Often

Reviewing your goals regularly is the only way to hold yourself accountable to achieving them. What milestones should you be measuring on your way? What expectations should you be exceeding in preparation? These might be performance reviews, certifications or classes, project successes, or interviews. Whatever your points of measurement, make sure you write them down and review them regularly.

 

5. Don’t Compare

Comparing your progress to what you perceive in other people will only set you back. Remember, you created your goals based on your core values and purpose, so they are unique to you. That means your progress and timeline are unique, too. You should only be comparing yourself today to yourself yesterday.

 

Are you ready to reach your career goals in 2022? We’d love to hear more about them and, if possible, help you achieve them. Contact us here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

32 Top IT Skills for 2018

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32 Top IT Skills for 2018

 

As IT functions continue to stretch deeper into every industry and sector, there’s no denying how robust the market is. The tech unemployment rate sits at just 2.5 percent, often dropping as low as zero percent in fields like cybersecurity. But it’s not enough to say that the IT industry is booming. What do these statistics mean as you drill down into specific technical roles? To be of any use, either to IT professionals who are seeking new opportunities or to leaders who are planning this year’s IT initiatives, we need to dig deeper into the actual technologies and languages that are driving the flow of supply and demand.

 

 

Hot Tech Skills for 2018

Dice.com has built a valuable data science tool that gives us insight into how supply and demand relate to specific tech skills. The technologies listed below have the highest ratio of demand to supply. While they are not necessarily the most in-demand skills across the IT function, they are the areas that are hurting the most when it comes to filling positions:

 

Hot Programming Languages

  1. Scala
  2. Ruby
  3. Bash
  4. Python
  5. Shell
  6. R
  7. Perl
  8. PHP

 

Hot Data Skills

  1. NoSQL
  2. Apache Kafka
  3. Apache Spark
  4. js
  5. MongoDB
  6. Splunk
  7. Apache Hadoop
  8. R

 

The competition for IT professionals with any of these skills is high, with many organizations experiencing a significant skills gap and an overall shortage of talent for these positions. To attract the talent that does exist, companies may need to evaluate their hiring processes and employer branding in order to stay ahead of the competition.

 

 

Most In-Demand Tech Skills in 2018

What about the IT skills that are being advertised the most? While the difference between supply and demand is on more equal footing for the following skills, these are the technologies which are in highest demand overall. The following are the most advertised IT skills:

 

  1. SQL
  2. Java
  3. Javascript
  4. C#
  5. HTML
  6. Python
  7. .NET
  8. Network Security
  9. Big Data

 

These skills have remained in high demand with such consistency in recent years that professionals and organizations alike can have confidence in continuing to use these technologies for years to come.

 

 

Fastest Growing Tech Skills in 2018

Finally, it is valuable to consider the technologies and skills with the greatest year-over-year increase in both job seeker and company search activity. Indeed provides key insight into which skills are growing the fastest:

 

Greatest Growth in Job Seeker Activity

  1. React
  2. Amazon Web Services
  3. Azure
  4. Angular
  5. Mandarin
  6. Tableau
  7. Laravel
  8. Golang

 

Greatest Growth in Employer Search Activity

  1. React
  2. Azure
  3. Amazon Web Services
  4. Offensive Security Certification
  5. Spark
  6. Angular
  7. R
  8. Golang

 

For IT professionals looking to develop their technical skill sets, these areas provide an indication into what technologies may be in future demand. Likewise, for companies exploring new technology initiatives or trying to future-proof their technical infrastructure and operations, these fast-growing IT skills will likely serve as a solid foundation.

 

 

Leveraging the Top IT Skills for 2018

With 60 percent of CIOs from various industries reporting a skills shortage, it’s important for both job seekers and companies to gain a greater understanding of the market in order to protect their futures. Studying the top tech skills from a variety of perspectives, including greatest skills gap, highest demand, and fastest growth, will help both parties understand what actions to take when preparing for the future.

How are you preparing for the future of IT?

 

 

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Facebook: How to Use Social Media to Get a Job

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Facebook: How to Use Social Media to Get a Job

 

You may not think of Facebook as a job seeking tool, but we must not forget how large its reach is. Data by Statista reveals that the amount of Facebook users only continues to increase over the years with over 1.8 billion active users currently. This is the best platform to show off your personality which is crucial in today’s market.

 

 

5 Simple Ways to Help your Job Search on Facebook:

 

 

1. Get Help from Your Friends

There’s nothing wrong with saying, “I’m looking for a new career opportunity in Software Engineering. Does anyone have any suggestions?” – Or something along those lines. Most people have at least 100 friends on Facebook, and when you think about the network your friends have, you can reach thousands of people.

 

 

facebook2. “Like” Companies You’re Interested In

“Liking” a company on Facebook can help your job search in more than one way. One obvious advantage is being able see all of their status updates, many of which may be about job openings. It’ll also keep you in the loop of any industry news, or current events that will facilitate you getting your foot in the door. If anything, a simple “like” also shows appreciation for what the company does.

 

 

 

3. Use Facebook Job Searching Apps

Some companies are starting to implement convenient job search apps that can be used on their profile. You’re likely already utilizing Facebook socially, so why not check out job openings while you’re at it?

 

 

4. Join and Get Active in Groups

Join alumni groups, job searching groups, and any common interest group that might post job openings. Some companies might even create their own groups that are dedicated to their own job postings.

 

 

– SEE ALSO –

1439854158_squarico-18How to Use Social Media to Get a Job: Twitter

linkedinHow to Use Social Media to Get a Job: LinkedIn

LinkedIn: How to Use Social Media to Get a Job

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LinkedIn: How to Use Social Media to Get a Job

 

Looking for jobs on LinkedIn may seem straightforward, but there are many unique features and tricks that can put you ahead of the curve. Of course, to utilize these resourceful job hunting tricks, your LinkedIn profile must first be crafted in a way that accurately represents you. That means having up-to-date information that shows professionalism and dedication.

 

 

Beyond browsing the platform jobs page, here are 4 Ways to Get a Job on LinkedIn:

 

 

 1. Use Advanced Job Search

Instead of hoping for the best when you search for jobs on LinkedIn, why not take advantage of the “Advanced Job Search” option? If you’re dedicated to the automotive industry, and are planning to make at least $100,000, your job search just became easier with this tool.

 

advanced search LinkedIn

 

 

2. Sign up for Email Job Alerts

To take your LinkedIn “Advanced Job Search” one step further, try signing up for job alerts. The best part about this is that you can customize the type of job you’re looking for. You can also choose how often you want to receive the emails. For step-by-step instructions on how to sign up for LinkedIn job alerts, click here.

 

 

Linkedin

3. Post to LinkedIn Publishing Platform

LinkedIn’s Publishing Platform grants a great opportunity to sell yourself when searching for a specific job. The advantage of using this feature is that all of your connections get notified when you post. If you’re not sure on what to write, simply be sure to remain active on your profile and engage with your connections.

 

 

4. Connect / Reach Out to Company Hiring Managers

If you haven’t noticed already, when you a visit a company’s LinkedIn profile, all of the employees that work for that company can be found on the right-hand side. This bodes well for individuals that want to reach out to large companies. Instead of messaging company website forms, you can get in touch with recruiters directly. To do this, simply search for hiring managers/recruiters and send them a message – This shows your dedication.

 

 

– SEE ALSO –

1439854158_squarico-18How to Use Social Media to Get a Job: Twitter

1439854134_squarico-19How to Use Social Media to Get a Job: Facebook

 

Twitter: How to Use Social Media to Get a Job

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Twitter: How to Use Social Media to Get a Job

 

 

Twitter doesn’t have the most transparent job seeking features, but that’s all the more reason to utilize it to stand out to employers. Before we dive in, remember to be yourself. There’s no need to be super formal; You can save that for LinkedIn.

 

 

5 Unique Ways to a Get a Job with Twitter:

 

 

1. Use Twitter Hashtags

Whether you love them or hate them, hashtags are here to stay. That being said, there are a lot of different hashtag tactics that can really help your job search. For one, take advantage of sites like Hashtagify.me to see which hashtags are getting the most hits. This can be utilized when you post an update about your job search.

 

You can also search hashtags to see who’s hiring. Tags like #job or #jobs are are highly common, but you should probably get more specific to find something more suitable for you. If you’re looking for an IT job in Dallas, you may want to search tags like #Dallasjob, #TexasJobs, #IT, #ITJob, etc. Try it out!

 

Twitter hashtag

 

 

2. Follow & Interact With Recruiters

Although you can also do this on LinkedIn, recruiters and hiring managers love when job seekers think outside-the-box to contact them. Twitter is a lot less formal than LinkedIn, so you can treat it as a tool to do business, as well as socialize. Don’t be scared to show your personality – Sometimes that’s what it’s all about.

 

 

twitter

3. Update Your Twitter Bio

This is your chance to share what you do, what you’re passionate about, or what type of position you’re looking for. Even if you’re not actively looking for a job, adding a current position may open a door to a new opportunity or a helpful connection.

 

 

4. Participate in Industry or Company Chats

Twitter chats are becoming increasingly popular among job seekers and hiring managers/companies. They are especially useful for someone looking to discuss a specific topic with like-minded individuals, such as job openings, and industry news.

 

There are also Twitter Chats that aren’t initiated by one specific company. #JOBHUNTCHAT (every  Friday at noon EST), for instance, is a chat that many different companies and groups engage in.

 

 

5. Message the Company Directly

Submitting your resume via email or through a website is great, but why not follow-up on Twitter? There’s honestly not much to it – Just another way to stand out from the crowd.

 

 

– SEE ALSO –
linkedinHow to Use Social Media to Get a Job: LinkedIn
facebookHow to Use Social Media to Get a Job: Facebook

 

IT Jobs: 10 Interview Tips to Showcase Your Skills

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IT Jobs: 10 Interview Tips to Showcase Your Skills

 

So you say you’re an incredible .NET developer? That’s awesome, but if you have trouble communicating your expertise to a non-technical interviewer, we’re here to help! Our IT recruiting team has truly seen it all. With years of experience, finding great IT jobs for tech professionals is our bread and butter. I sat down with our recruiters to get the real-world advice they give interviewees to help them land their next IT job. Here’s what they said:

 

1. It’s okay to be nervous. It’s natural, and interviewers usually expect it. Don’t psych yourself out by trying to cover it up. It usually comes off as awkward.

 

2. Take a notebook with you to take notes throughout the interview. Even if you don’t think you need it, not taking notes can send the wrong message. You can even use the notebook to your advantage by writing down questions you may have for the interviewee beforehand.

 

3. Evaluate yourself afterwards by writing down any questions that may have stumped you immediately after an interview. Re-evaluate your answer so you can decide if and how you might answer it differently in the future. The more interviews you go on, the more confident you’ll become when taking this extra step.

 

4. Give specific examples when answering a question while still being concise. If you aren’t sure that you gave them enough information ask, “Does that answer your question?” or “Would you like more information?” to prevent from rambling on.

 

5. Be prepared to talk about your technical abilities with someone with no technical knowledge. Many times, at least one of your interviewers will have little knowledge of the systems you work with. Be able to describe your experience in detail in terms that non-practitioners would understand.

 

6. Pay attention to body language. If you notice your interviewer getting impatient, wrap up your point quickly so you can move on to the next topic. Remember that many interviews only last an hour, so be conscious of the time to allow enough time for all their questions and yours.

 

7. Eye contact and a firm handshake. So many people forget this, but it’s critical to making a good impression.

 

8. Study the job description before you go into the interview. Even if you don’t have all of the skills “required,” there is a reason they have agreed to meet with you. If you know or have experience with 80% of the description, focus on researching the 20% that you don’t. It will show that you have drive. You can also use the 20% you don’t know as a weakness (if they ask), and spin it into something positive where it shows you’re capable of learning and improving in these areas.

 

9. Silence is okay. If you have fully answered the interviewer’s question, STOP. Don’t ramble on. The interviewer may just be taking notes or collecting their thoughts.

 

10. Get the interviewers’ contact information. Send all interviewers a hand-written thank you note, or email them a thank you at the very least. Pro tip: master the fine art of writing the perfect thank you note.

 

 

 

Avoid Sabotaging your Career Advancement

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Avoid Sabotaging Your Career Advancement

 

Career advancement is an on-going goal for most professionals. Unfortunately, some people don’t realize they are making critical mistakes, thereby sabotaging their progress. Understanding these potential slip-ups can help you stay on the fast-track path to career success. Here are a few things to avoid:

 

 Micromanagement Required

Your boss won’t likely promote you if they feel like you have to be micromanaged every step of the way. Take initiative with your projects and don’t be afraid to ask questions to ensure the job is done correctly. At the same time, don’t rely on others to tell you how to handle every detail of every project. Be confident in your abilities and strengthen the areas that need attention.

 

Placing your Ego before the Team

Don’t let your ego get in the way of developing stronger work relationships and building an effective team. If you are always stepping on other people’s toes because you want to do it your way, then you could be sabotaging career opportunities. Respect the skills and experience of those around you; create a team dynamic that everyone wants to be part of.

 

Complaining

Don’t be the office whiner; the complainer who brings everyone down. If you need to make a complaint about a workflow, for example, state the issue and then offer a solution for making improvements. Open-ended complaints bring down morale and sabotage your career advancement.

 

Poor Communication Skills

You don’t have to be the loudest voice in the room to be heard. Articulate your thoughts and ideas clearly. Be confident in the value you bring to the conversation and always listen as much – if not more than, you speak. In doing so, you will be recognized as a confident, respectful team player.

 

Brown-nosing

It’s going to backfire. Trying to impress people too much with flattery often has a negative impact. Be genuine and avoid crossing the line just to get approval from your boss.

 

Be aware of your habits and actions throughout the day, and make sure that you are avoiding behaviors that will sabotage opportunities for career advancement.

Turn Your Job Hunting Weaknesses Into Positives

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Turn Your Job Hunting Weaknesses Into Positives

 

“What are your weaknesses?”… after investing some time in demonstrating why you’d be the best person for a job, this question can be quite difficult to answer or discuss. The reality is that everyone has some sort of weaknesses even if they’re the best in their field. Don’t let yours ruin your chances in getting the job you’ve been working hard to get! Just like anything else, it’s the way you say it and how you approach it.

 

 

4 common weaknesses you can spin into positives:

 

I am assertive
To some people, assertiveness might come off as being arrogant, dominating and bossy. However, being assertive can also be a great attribute and it’s your job to show them how! Perhaps being assertive has been a great communication skill in the past or it has allowed you to solve problems and take responsibility. Shine a positive light to this attribute, and make it work for your advantage.

 

Inexperience
This is one of the most common weaknesses in job seekers. After all, we all start as a beginner at one point in our career. List any accomplishments, projects or related coursework on your resume, to show you do have some sort of experience and knowledge in the field. If you are changing careers, takeaway skills from previous jobs that you find relevant. Lastly, in some instances, lack of experience can be an advantage! Demonstrate that you are a fast learner and they’ll find value in being able to teach you from scratch.

 

Disparity in your work experience
We get it, things happen! No matter the reason, be prepared to explain it and be sure to stay active in the meantime. You can do so by volunteering, taking industry related classes, or even working on side projects that you can add to your resume. The important thing is to show that you are committed to your career and passionate about the industry.

 

Job hopping
Companies spend a lot of time and money on new-hires, and they want to be sure that they stay for a long time. Although no one expects you to have the same job for 10 years, if you tend to be a job hopper, be sure to approach it in a positive way. If the constant move wasn’t necessarily your choice, you can explain the reasoning in a cover letter. If you’ve simply moved from job to job to get to where you want to be, spin this by focusing on the prevalent themes of your work. You will then come off as an experienced go-getter instead of the hit-and-run type. To become an even more desirable candidate, be sure to point out your accomplishments and successes along the way.

 

Finding the silver lining in any weaknesses, will help you address them more confidently in any job interview. In the end, confidence will go a long way when it comes to landing a job and being successful at it!

Engineering Career Advice from Top Recruiters

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Engineering Career Advice from Top Recruiters

 

Whether you’re ready to take your engineering career to the next level, or you’re thinking about where you want to be in 5 years, you should always be prepared. At Brightwing, we work with dozens of fantastic organizations, and speak to hundreds of engineering professionals every week. We asked our recruiters to give their top engineering career advice – here’s what they had to say.

 

“If you’re looking to advance your engineering career, be prepared! Make sure your resume is up-to-date and proofread, and be ready to answer questions that recruiters may ask you – like ‘What type of job opportunity are you looking for?’ It seems straight-forward, but it could come down to a specific part of a vehicle you want to work on – be specific.”
—Maren Morris

 

“Don’t be afraid to show your passion if it relates to your job, as well as your personal life. There is a lot of people that want to be in the industry, and you will need to stand out.”
—Mike Gourley

 

 

“Let your friends and trusted networks know if you’re looking for a new engineering job. They could come across someone that has potential opportunities. It happens all the time.”
—Julia Powell

 

 

Have a question for one of our recruiters? Looking for for a new engineering job? Contact us any time at [email protected].

Engineering Job Seekers: 3 Quick Ways to Stand Out

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Engineering Job Seekers: 3 Ways to Stand Out

 

For engineers, the challenge isn’t finding job opportunities—it’s being able to differentiate themselves from others with similar skillsets. Now, more than ever, engineers need to go beyond expertise and professional background to secure their ideal job. Here are 3 ways stand out as an engineering job seeker:

 

Speak to your Soft Skills

There are stereotypes out there that label engineers as individuals with no soft skills. In this market – there is an abundance of engineering opportunities, but in order to propel yourself to the next level, it is important to separate yourself from the pack. Employers know you have the right technical skills, but more and more are now looking for the right culture fit – engineers with solid communication skills. If you have soft skills to back up your professional experience, don’t be afraid to put it on your resume!

 

Demonstrate Social Awareness through Social Media

It may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but engineers who develop their social media presence can quickly differentiate themselves from other candidates. According to CareerBuilder’s 2016 social media recruitment survey, 60 percent of employers revealed they use social networking sites to research job candidates. That being said, showcasing your interests, communication skills, and expertise on social media is one sure way to get noticed. LinkedIn is a must for job seekers looking to advance their careers, but there are other engineering platforms that fly under the radar. Here are seven social media outlets that engineering professionals are utilizing to advance their careers.

 

Talk to Specialist Recruiters

If you’re looking for a good resource to discover career advice or new job opportunities, be sure to reach out to recruiting organizations that specialize in taking your career to the next level. Tell them that you’re interested in an opportunity listed on their job board, or that you’re looking to take the next step in your career. The extra effort of reaching out can go a long way.

 

How Can Brightwing Help?

Brightwing has over 40 years of experience helping engineering professionals advance their careers – We build lasting relationships with a diverse group of companies and leverage our client relationships to connect you to the right engineering opportunity.

Become More Marketable for Any Job

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Become More Marketing for Any Job

 

Managers are often struggling to find the right talent for their companies. In a competitive job market, follow these tips to become a more marketable and sought-after candidate!

 

Bring out your inner Steve Jobs

As an engineer, you should already have a set of advanced technology skills. But what makes you stand out from the rest? The reality, is that the world has gone digital, and strengthening your tech skills will only make you that much more valuable. There are always many courses, tutorials, and training programs available– many of them are free! Trust us, boosting your inner tech savvy, will make you more marketable and desirable to recruiters.

 

Dress for the job you want

It’s all about the way you present yourself. Whether it’s at a job interview, casual networking event, or simply a regular day at work, make sure you’re always putting your best foot forward. Make sure you’re clean, well-groomed and well-dressed at any occasion. Not only does it show respect to the company and the people around you, but it shows that you’re serious about your job.

 

Try to avoid gaps

Especially when it comes to engineers, the best candidates are usually the ones that are currently employed. This shows that you’re already marketable! Yet, if for some reason you are unemployed, don’t worry! Take it upon yourself to get involved in organizations related to your field and become an active job-seeker.

 

Passive is good

Although you may be content with your current position, companies are willing to invest a lot of time and money to make you a better offer. With such a valuable and unique skill set, keep an open mind to the many other opportunities around you.

 

Are you in the right location?

In general, employers prefer local candidates. It takes a lot from a company to orchestrate in-person interviews when you live far away. For example, if you’re interested in working for the automotive industry, living in the Detroit area may grant you more offers than any other state. If you want to become more marketable for a specific company, try moving to their location for a couple of weeks. Line up interviews during that time, and make the best of the time you have there.

 

Loyalty

Whether you’ve been with one company for 5 years, or 5 companies in 5 years, find a way to present your loyalty. Some companies might find you more marketable if they see you’ve been loyal to your past companies. Others, may prefer a go-getter who has achieved their goals hopping from one position to another. As always, it’s not about what you say, but how you say it.

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Career Advice: Stay Organized at Work!

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Career Advice--Stay Organized at Work

 

Staying organized is essential to survive in the workplace. Not only does it reduce stress, but it helps you be more efficient– It’s a win, win! Try out these 4 easy tips for staying organized at work.

 

1. Prioritize

Get rid of the clutter and focus on what’s important! Whatever it is you wish to accomplish in a day, week, or month, you need to make these goals a priority or they’ll be left behind. By doing so, you will see progress and you’ll be able to tackle each goal more efficiently – with greater success!

 

2. Clean Your Desk

Tired of wasting time looking for stuff? You’d be surprised what a clean desk can do for your productivity! After all, staying organized at work can help increase your professional image — a messy desk could prevent you from landing a managerial position! Start by dedicating 30 minutes a week to throwing out unnecessary papers and organizing documents. Find a system that works for you and stick with it. In time, you’ll have a stronger sense of control over your work space and tasks.

 

3. Don’t Forget about Your Digital Work Space

Depending on your industry, most of your work and materials may be digital, not physical. So even if your work area is super neat, you may still have a lot of organizing to do with your virtual desktop. Think back to the last time a manager requested a document from you, and you scrambled to find it on your computer desktop or shared drive. Chances are, poor folder organization was the time-sucking culprit. Get a handle on the issue once and for all by carving out some time (perhaps a Friday afternoon) to reorganize and rename folders, and delete or archive any inactive documents – just make sure to communicate your process to anyone who may be impacted to mitigate confusion.

 

4. Make Time For Your Calendar

Organize your calendar! One way to keep your work life organized is by thoughtfully scheduling your tasks each day and week. Be mindful of your energy and creative levels: if you’re someone who is sharp and alert in the morning, plan your toughest tasks in the AM. Think about the natural rhythm of work in your department: if Wednesdays are always crazy, schedule a buffer to help you handle the pandemonium (e.g. a 30 minute block of time in the AM and PM). And always have a list of back-up tasks (in order of priority) on the off-chance that the day is quieter than expected. At all costs, avoid multi-tasking like the plague. Focusing on one task at a time will help you get things done faster, will increase your sense of accomplishment, and will demonstrate to others that you indeed have the laser-like focus and determination that are so characteristic of successful people.

Career Fair Preparation and Tips

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Career Fair Preparation and Tips

 

As the school year begins, career fair season is upon us. Regardless of what academic year you’re in, the first and most important tip is to take advantage of these fairs. In today’s market, employers are eager to find their next candidates and attending a career fair is a great way to get your foot in the door. Follow these guidelines to prepare and get the most out of any career fair you attend to this year!

 

 

Career Fair Preparation

Do your homework- Before attending a career fair, look through the list of companies in attendance and highlight those that you’re interested in the most. Be sure to do some background research on these companies to prepare relevant questions ahead of time. Do NOT ask questions that could easily be answered with a quick google search. The great thing about career fairs, is that you get to have a one-on-one conversation with that company, so make the best out of it!

 

Update your resume– Always, always, always have an updated resume ready. If possible, have others review it and make necessary changes as well. Print enough copies to give to your list of employers and a couple of extras just in case.

 

Elevator Pitch– Although a career fair is more conversational, be sure to know what key points you’d like to talk about. Have a strong introduction and share what skills or expertise makes you different.

 

LinkedIn- If all goes well, an employer may be interested to know a little bit more about you. In this case, they’re likely to look you up on LinkedIn or other social media for that matter. Make sure your profile is updated with the most relevant information similar to your resume.

 

Dress well– If you don’t already have a professional wardrobe, it’s time to go shopping. Although first impressions aren’t everything, they are very powerful and it’s important for you to show the best version of yourself.

 

 

Career Fair Tips

Arrive early- It shows that you are serious and professional– simple as that! Not to mention you’ll get to skip the long lines on the most popular employers.

 

Be open minded- While it’s recommended that you plan ahead to what companies you’re interested in, this is also a perfect time to get to know other companies too. Be flexible and willing to talk to anyone!

 

Listen/Take notes- Although it’s tempting to tell them everything about yourself and why they should hire you, listening is sometimes the best thing to do. You’ll gain much more valuable information, and it’ll surely set you apart from others. Also, don’t be afraid to take notes as they speak. It shows you’re interested in what they have to say, and it’ll help you remember any important details after the career fair.

 

Be concise and clear- Again, sometimes less is more. According to what company it is, build on skills that are relevant to them. Quality is much better than quantity and they’re likely to remember more of your conversation.

 

Be courteous- Simple morals go a long way! Show respect not only to employers but everyone around you.

 

Be confident-Even if you’re nervous, act confident and enthusiastic. Shake off any bad conversation, and remain positive.

 

Keep in touch– One of the most important aspects of attending a career fair, is following up. Ask for their business cards or a way of contact to keep the conversation going. After the career fair, take some time to submit your resume on their websites, send out thank you emails, or follow them on social media. The key to having a successful career fair, is to stay in touch.

 

Southeast Michigan Ranks Among Best for Tech Jobs [Infographic]

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Employment for tech jobs in Southeast Michigan has skyrocketed in the last 4 years. From engineering to science technologies, Metro Detroit ranks among the best. The growing technology hub has even been compared to Silicon Valley in recent months.

 

Many of the vast opportunities in Southeast Michigan stem from its booming tech economy. That being said, most of these opportunities include high-tech, high-wage jobs. It’s not too surprising that Metro Detroit ranks first in advanced automotive industry jobs, but it also ranks first in number of engineering degrees earned, and second in overall growth in all technology occupations.


What does this mean for Southeast Michigan?

Simply put, growth. Along with other technology hubs such as Dallas and San Jose, Southeast Michigan is on the map as one of the fastest emerging regions for new innovations and tech jobs. Some companies that have been part of the Metro-Detroit tech boom include Chrysler Automotive  and the Tweddle Group.

 

What happens next?

We keep going. Detroit and its surrounding cities are slowly working to reinvent its reputation. The opportunities for startups and business development have never been better. The numbers speak for themselves. How has the emergent tech industry effected your career or business? Leave a comment below.

 

tech jobs michigan

How to Negotiate a Job Offer

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How to Negotiate a Job Offer

 

Negotiating a job offer begins the moment you start your job search. The key is to be prepared by researching similar positions in the industry. Doing your homework will help you make smarter, more reasonable decisions and establish a negotiation strategy. The most important factor in negotiating a job offer is confidence – confidence in your skills, talents, experience, and education. The way you hold yourself and present your capabilities will help convince the hiring manager that you will be a valuable asset to the organization. Learn the dos and don’ts on how to successfully negotiate a job offer with these three articles:

 

How to Negotiate A Job Offer

Learn great tips and strategies from Forbes on “How To Negotiate A Job Offer“. This article will guide you on every step of the process from the beginning stages of your job search, to the final negotiating stages. Not sure what to actually say during the negotiation? This article also provides a word-for-word example on what to say and what responses to expect from the hiring manager.

 

 

Don’t Make These 8 Mistakes When Negotiating Salary

Preparation is key to negotiate a job offer. Avoid these “8 Mistakes When Negotiating Salary“, as discussed in U.S. News. From lying about your last salary, to playing games, find out what may be causing you to loose the job offer completely. Don’t let these mistakes become experiences you are forced to learn from! They may cost you a great job offer and a great position.

 

 

How To Negotiate Salary: 37 Tips You Need To Know

According to The Muse, most people avoid negotiating their salary out of fear. Overcome this fear, and become a better negotiator with their article “How To Negotiate Salary: 37 Tips You Need To Know“. The article gives tips on every stage of the process including:

 

  • Getting Prepared
  • Starting The Conversation
  • Making the Ask
  • Getting An Answer (and Dealing With the Aftermath)

Are You Too Loyal to Your Employer?

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Are You Too Loyal to Your Employer

 

Employee Loyalty: Value vs. Obligation

What? Is there such a thing as being too loyal to your employer? Yes, there is: when it interferes with your professional development. In general, employee loyalty is a valuable quality; there’s nothing wrong with owning your role and enjoying your job. However, when employee loyalty evolves from a mutual value-add for employer and employee into a feeling of obligation, opportunities are missed and careers become stagnant.

 

Keep Employee Loyalty in Check

Regardless of your degree, chances are there are various opportunities available that you haven’t considered. Of course we all love a stable job where we know the people, the company, and what to expect from day-to-day. However, being too loyal or too comfortable may prevent you from pursuing new opportunities.

 

Forbes published a great article, Five Ways Your Loyalty To Your Job Can Hurt Your Career, that offers advice for keeping your employee loyalty in perspective. For example, the article recommends taking time once or twice a year to ask yourself:

 

  • What do I want from my career?
  • Is this job taking me in the right direction?
  • Have I learned anything important and marketable over the past 12 months?
  • Am I paid what I am worth here? Do I know what my skills are worth?
  • What is the next career step for me? Can I take that step in this company, or do I have to move on?

 

Balance Employee Loyalty and Your Career Path

It’s a fact– A manager’s priority is to maximize profit; Hence, to grow their own business. Likewise, while it’s good to be loyal, your priority should be to grow your career. Even the best of employers cannot offer you endless opportunities to help you reach your highest potential. Even if they wanted to, it’s not realistic. Employee loyalty is overrated and you can’t let it determine your career path. Define where you want to go, what you want to do, and take the steps necessary to get there. After all, your career is your responsibility and you have to be loyal to this first.

5 Interpersonal Skills Every Engineer Should Have

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This may be the understatement of the year: right now there is an incredible need for engineers. All skill sets and experience levels are in high demand from start ups to giant corporations, but that doesn’t mean that every engineer will be employed or successful.

 

interpersonal skillsIn the thriving STEM fields, interpersonal skills are becoming increasingly important in career advancement. They are just as important as the technical skills, as they help create personal branding and a well-rounded network of professionals, opening opportunities and creating relationships with peers. Following are the five key interpersonal skills that engineers and other STEM professionals should develop for career success:

 

1. Communication

Engineers and other STEM professions place higher value on technical skills than communication. However, effective communication is equally as important. In order to succeed and be innovative in their position, they must be able to communicate their ideas.

 

2. Creativity

The technical skills to find and fix system issues is just as valuable as the creativity to find new ways to solve problems. People who continually push the envelope to find and develop new products, processes etc, get the recognition from peers and management.

 

3. Adaptability

Like creativity, the ability to continually push and change is invaluable. Challenges arise daily and as an employee and job seeker, you must be able to adapt, be creative, and communicate the issues to work towards a solution.

 

4. Collaboration

Product creation, service execution, and system innovation do not happen by one person. Steve Jobs may have been an incredible driving force behind Apple’s success, but there were countless engineers, developers, and other professionals working to create, market and sell their products. Collaborating in a team setting is not only necessary for a job seeker and employee, but is absolutely essential.

 

5. Leadership

We all know what a leader is, however becoming one takes thought. If you aspire to make a difference in your company/ city/ the world in any profession, leadership skills have to come into play. Developing these skills over time as you build relationships will help you achieve success beyond your career.

How to Perfect Your Elevator Pitch

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Mastering your elevator pitch can land you the job you’ve been looking for! Whether you’re at a networking event, hanging-out with friends or actually run into someone in an elevator, your elevator pitch must grab people’s attention.

 

What is an elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch is a 30-second speech used to summarize who you are, your job history, and your career goals. Although 30-seconds may not seem like enough, the point is to leave a great impression, or to spark a conversation. With a short-amount of time, make your speech as rich and clear as possible.

 

Follow these steps to craft your elevator pitch:

1. Define a goal

elevator pitchThe most important step is to identify what you want to accomplish with your elevator pitch. Some examples include to:

Get a job

Make a sale

Promote your business

 

2. Define a target audience

When developing your elevator pitch, consider the various audience types you may encounter. Though the speech is about you, it’s for them. For example, if you are looking for an engineering position, use keywords that would attract other engineers. Use relevant language, attributes, and examples to keep them engaged.

 

4. Call to action

You just had a drop-the-mike moment and presented yourself impeccably. Now what? End your pitch with a question, or a request that will keep the conversation going.

 

5. Practice it

Review your elevator pitch and practice out loud to catch anything that may sound off or irrelevant. Practice with friends or family to get a second opinion on what you could improve. Make sure that over time, your elevator pitch comes naturally and you don’t sound like a robot while delivering it. Once you feel comfortable with it, don’t be afraid to start using it. Even if you mess it up the first time, practice does make perfect.

 

Checkout some examples below on how it all comes together

 

“I’m currently studying education at [college]. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to make the conceptual practical and I’m interested in securing an entry-level role at a nonprofit that allows me to teach and develop curriculum. Because nonprofit programs and fellowships were a key part of my development, it’s important for me to pay it forward and help students develop to their highest potential. ” -Retrieved from Idealist Careers

 

“My name is Josh Paul. I am a graduating senior from [x] University. I am looking for an internship in a law firm this summer. I have had a strong interest in the law since I first enrolled in college and have participated in several seminars of constitutional and corporate law. Although those seminars were ungraded, I have maintained a 3.4 GPA while also participating in several extra curricular activities including the Pre-law society. If your firm offers internships, I would appreciate an introduction to the people in charge of that program. Alternatively, I would appreciate the opportunity to give you a call and/or meet with you in person to discuss your career path and how I might find opportunities within the legal profession.” – Retrieved from Salisbury University

 

“If you are looking for the best accounting firm in the city, look no further. My accounting firm has a solid track record of balancing books in about half the time of our competitors. If you examine our records, you will notice that we are virtually error-free. Furthermore, I have hired the best and the brightest to represent my firm and we have introduced ideas to our clients that have saved them thousands of dollars. We have outstanding references, all of whom would testify that our firm has worked incredible wonders for their company. In six years, we have not lost a single client. I am sure that we can raise the bar for your company.” -Retrieved from YourPersonalBrand

 

“I like to shine from behind the scenes. I am an office support professional with experience managing Marketing Programs and Initiatives for the manufactured consumer products industry. Being the people person that I am, I enjoy being hands-on in getting to know what the customer wants/needs and then working within company guidelines to make it happen. If you have the time, I’d be thrilled to share more about my background.” – Retrieved from YourPersonalBrand

 

 

Professional Networking Tips

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Professional NetworkingWe’ve said it before and we’ll say it again– Professional Networking is essential for your career. From the grocery store to a professional networking event, you should always be prepared. With the right guide, you can strengthen your networking skills and improve on your weaknesses. Follow these tips to make a greater impression while networking:

 

1. Be Prepared

Preparation is key when attending a networking event. Research the companies or specific people you want to speak with and prepare questions ahead of time. This is a great way to ensure a smooth conversation and excellent use of time.

 

2. Elevator Pitch

Have a pitch prepared and rehearsed! An elevator pitch is a 30-second speech that can be used to summarize your personal bio, job history, goals, etc. Preparing– and rehearsing, an elevator pitch is a great way to be ready for every situation and networking opportunity.

 

3. Business Cards

Always be prepared with business cards! Having all your information ready and available is the best way to stay in-touch. Especially if you happen to meet someone outside of a professional networking event, business cards are easy and effective.

 

4. Resume

Follow resume writing best practices and carry hard copies to professional networking events. Be prepared with an electronic version of the resume to share via email.

 

5. Listen

Listening is a powerful tool in networking. After all, networking is about connecting with others– it’s not all about you! Pay attention to what others have to say and the details they mention so you can respond accordingly. Developing good listening skills will help in networking and throughout your career.

 

6. Be confident

If you don’t believe in yourself, you can’t expect others to believe in you. Carry yourself with confidence by emphasizing your strengths while working on your weaknesses. This confidence will translate into a great first impression and help you earn trust and respect throughout your career.

 

7. Follow Up

Follow up a great conversation with a phone call, e-mail, or LinkedIn. The key here: less is more. Don’t call until they answer, just reach out to show you enjoyed the conversation and would like to continue the relationship. After that, the ball is on their court.

 

8. Dress for success

Make your first impression count by dressing professionally! Don’t let your clothing or grooming be the reason why you didn’t get a call back.

 

9. The Firm Handshake

In every situation, a firm  handshake demonstrates confidence and professionalism. A firm handshake makes a great first impression!

 

10. Do not be afraid to network

Take advantage of every networking opportunity! Professional Networking is extremely powerful and beneficial for your career. Don’t let fear stand in your way! Practice, learn from your mistakes, and take advantage of every networking opportunity!

 

Professional Networking: Expanding Connections

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Networking is one of the most beneficial career advancement techniques. Developing and implementing a professional networking strategy is a great way to promote your personal brand, build new business relationships, and discover new opportunities throughout your career.

 

Although it may seem difficult at times, networking can be very simple and enjoyable. Best part? There is always an opportunity to network. Learn a variety of easy ways to integrate networking into your daily activities:

 

networking through volunteering

1. Volunteer at your favorite organization!

Not only are you contributing to a good cause, but you will meet people with similar interests. This is a great time to connect to those in your community as well. Since volunteering usually involves a variety of companies, this is a great place to meet others from various professional fields. Worst comes to worst, you are not able to network. No problem! Volunteering also adds value to your resume.

 

2. Attend a variety of events

Networking is a huge part of every event hosted by any company, school or organization. Luckily, there is always a variety of events! Although it may seem intimidating, it’s essential to put yourself out there. This is the time to freely talk about who you are as a professional, and where you want to go with your career. Be confident and do your research prior to attending these events to make it easier for you to network. You can find these events through University websites, or sites such as Eventbrite and Meetup. Do a quick search in the fields you’re interested in, and you will find many opportunities available around your community. If you know of a specific company you’d like to interact with, visit their website regularly to check for their upcoming events as well.

 

3. Networking with those around you

networking with those around youNetworking can be as easy or as complicated as you make it. Sometimes the people you interact with on a day-to-day basis, are the best to network with. Whether it’s at school or at your current job, make an effort to get to know your peers. Great opportunities and friendships may come from it. Especially as a student, networking is very simple and beneficial during classes. This is the perfect place to get to know a variety of future professionals.

 

4. Get involved

Get involved in clubs or organizations that interest you! Tap into your community resources and see what associations or groups are present. This allows you to make great connections while enjoying a certain activity. Since these memberships are usually long-term, it relieves the pressure from trying to make a connection in a five minute conversation. Instead, it’s about getting to know others who may be able to help you in your career down the road.

 

5. Social Media

Finally, a great way to stay connected to those you met volunteering, at your old job, or at a recent event, is by connecting through social media. Depending on the person, you can find the appropriate network to connect with them. For example, if it’s a professional you’ve only met once, LinkedIn may be your best option. Facebook on the other hand, can allow you to stay connected with your past co-workers or classmates. With the help of social media, you can keep and grow your connections without having to interact with them on a day-to-day basis. Use it to your advantage to expand your network by also strengthening your personal brand.

How to Find Your Dream Job

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“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life”

 

Dream Job

Many have heard this quote once or twice before; It’s refreshing, inspirational and it sounds easy enough. Yet, to do what you love seems to be a little more complicated than expected. Why is it that millions of people continue to go to a job they hate year after year? Why don’t we go after what we’re truly passionate about? Regardless of what point in  your career you’re at, life is too short to not go after your dream job (as cheesy as it might sound).

 

You may be satisfied with a job that pays well to build your resume or gain experience. Although it may give you just that, it is also taking you away from going after opportunities that may be more fitting. Unless it’s a stepping stone to where you want to go, avoid it, or it may cost you several months or even years of dreadfulness. Identify your goals, set standards and find a job that you’ll love to go to on Monday morning.

 

Step 1: Re-Evaluate! Finding your dream job means finding yourself

As much as I would love to tell you exactly what your dream job would be and how to get there, nobody knows you better than you know yourself. Once you know what you’re looking for, it’ll be much easier to find it. If you already know what that is, great! You are one of the few, but it means you are half way there. Stick to it, work hard for it and build your career around it. If you are unsure (like most), ask yourself the following questions to get you thinking on what is truly important to you and how to connect your career to your passions.

         What are the things that make you excited to get up in the morning?

         What do you value most?

         What experiences have you enjoyed the most?

         Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

         Who inspires you?

         Why are you in the career that you’re in?

         What do I want to be known for?

         What are your strengths?

         If you could be anything in the world what would it be?

 

After you’ve answered these questions (and more if you need to), take some time to create a vision statement. This will serve as a guide to steer you towards the right path. I have to admit, this may be the hardest and most time-consuming step. Don’t make it a stressful one. Simply ponder on these questions and on what you want to accomplish through your career. It’s not about defining a set career plan. It’s about identifying what factors form your dream job.

 

Step 2: Follow Your Vision

Now that you have a direction, search what other people in those positions have done to get there. It doesn’t mean you have to do exactly as they did, but you can learn from their examples. Stay proactive in your search and constantly evaluate your progress. This is not to discourage you, but to remind you of what your goals are and what areas you can improve on. With a clear vision in mind, you can start to build your career around it:

         Look for jobs that will give you the experience necessary.

         Get involved with companies that hold the same core values as you do.

         Network with people who have similar goals or a similar mindset.

         Ask for help or advice from mentors in the field.

         Acquire additional skills you may need to succeed in the job.

         Think outside the box to reach for beyond your limits.

         Avoid jobs that do not steer you in the right direction.

         Stay positive and be persistent.

 

Step 3: Stay Passionate

By following these steps, you will define and find your dream job. However, the most important thing in your career is to stay passionate. If you can’t find a job that meets your expectations, keep looking. If people tell you to go another (easier) direction, don’t listen. If the process is slower than expected, keep going. Stick to your vision and don’t let situations around you force you into the wrong job. I’m not saying stay at home and watch TV because you haven’t found the right job. I mean that you should filter your job search according to your career goals. Otherwise, you will constantly find yourself in a dead-end job. If you are not happy where you currently are, make a change for yourself! Step out of your comfort zone and reach for the many other opportunities available. When you do find yourself in a good job, continue to work hard to excel in it. Find new ways to learn and overcome any difficulties. Be persistent and don’t lose sight of your career goals until you find your dream job. You can achieve great things when you bet on yourself.

 

Hear how one of our very own bet on herself, and changed her career path to one she loves and excels in everyday.

Resume Writing Best Practices

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Improve your resume writing skills with the advice from our recruiters. With over 45 years of combined experience, they have seen it all! Here are some of their key tips to building a strong resume:

 

Powerful word for winning a resume1. Analyze job descriptions and industry keywords to attract recruiters who are looking for someone with your experience. Don’t overdo it by highlighting or bolding the keywords. (^^see how annoying that is?)

 

2. Make sure that your resume looks clean. Use bullet points, sections, and be concise. Make it easier for the recruiter to read, and fully understand your expertise.

 

3. Although there is no set rule on how long it should be, quality is better than quantity. Make sure that you provide enough detail and examples without going on for 5 pages. It also varies on what point of your career you are at. If you are a recent grad, one page may be enough.

 

4. With employers receiving hundreds of resumes, make sure that your resume hooks an employer’s attention within a 5-second glance. A great way to do this is to use job titles and skill headings that relate to and match the jobs you want.

 

5. Skip the objectives. These tend to be repetitive and quite obvious as we all have the same objective: to get a job in our field. Objective statements are unnecessary and may even limit your opportunities.

 

6. Keep your resume up to date and always have it ready to send in case an opportunity presents itself.

 

7. If there are any gaps in your resume, be prepared to talk about them if necessary. Don’t explain them on your resume unless they are relevant to the job. Were you volunteering? Were you taking a class?

 

8. Remember, resumes are intended to show off the highlights of your career and training, not to be an autobiography. When detailing projects, positions or experience avoid using words like I, my and we.

 

9. When listing your current and past employers, don’t explain what the company specializes in. Simply detail your experience and accomplishments. If the interviewer is interested, they will ask, which can then lead to interesting conversation.

 

10. Under the education section, you can detail your major, courses, and projects if they are relevant to the position or industry. Be sure to write out the name of the course, don’t just say “ACC 200”. This information is vague and useless to the recruiter if they don’t know which course it is.

 

11. Talk numbers! Many times people have great accomplishments, but fail to communicate just how great they were. Instead of saying “Managed budget successfully”, say “Managed a $1 million budget, and reduced costs by 10%”.

 

12. It’s acceptable and encouraged to have several versions of your resume. Resumes are bendable, flexible instruments that you can use to your professional advantage. Make it fit and relate to the job you are applying for.

 

Check out a variety of resume samples according to your industry to guide you in the process. These will help you get started, but don’t forget to make it your own for it to stand out from the rest.