By Anna Harrison; graphic by Karina Delgado Fernandez
1. “For early career roles, it’s really important to read the job description.” -Mariah Ramirez, Paramount
This may sound self-explanatory, but it’s good to read, re-read, and re-read the job description so you know exactly what skills a company is looking for—be sure to get specifics. When you arrive, be prepared with specific examples from your own life that are applicable to this job. Are they looking for someone with Excel experience? Mention all the times you have specifically worked with Excel—don’t just say a blanket, “Yes, I’ve worked with Excel.”
2. “Apply to as many jobs as possible just to get your resume seen.” -Michelle Liu, Roku
When you’re early in your career, it’s important to get your name out there. Even if you don’t have all the skills or experience necessary, it never hurts to apply, and someone may file your name away for future reference.
3. “Look for how [your] current skill set can apply to the roles.” -Mariah Ramirez, Paramount
Once you read the job description, look to your own skills to see which ones carry over to this new role. If something isn’t a one-to-one match, can you still apply it in some way? Just because you don’t currently have the exact same skillset doesn’t mean you don’t have any transferable skills to bring to the table.
Do you know anyone at the company you’re applying to? Ask them to take a look at your resume. Ask a friend of a friend if they know anyone.
4. “Separate yourself from the crowd.” -Jim Molloy, Spectrum Reach
There’s good standing out and there’s bad standing out—be sure to do the former. Put effort and passion into your application, let the company know how interested you are, and follow up.
5. “Stay in touch.” -Michelle Liu, Roku
Even if you aren’t chosen for a job, stay in contact with anyone you talked to. Don’t nag, but check in every so often to see if there’s something new. Eventually, the wrong place, wrong time can become the right place, right time.
6. “It’s about being proactive.” -Jim Molloy, Spectrum Reach
If you know someone who works for a company, ask if they can look over your resume. Ask a friend of a friend if they know anyone—you might be surprised at how big your network is if you reach out.
