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The world of software development is teeming with opportunities, but it's also highly competitive. You need to be armed with the right knowledge and strategies to stand out in this crowded field. Recently, over 3,771 attendees joined an enlightening event titled "How To Write An ATS-Friendly, FAANG-Ready Resume," and today, we're here to share some of the key takeaways that can help you in your job search.
Exaltitude newsletter is packed with advice for navigating your engineering career journey successfully. Sign up to stay tuned!
One of the most common questions received was about including projects on your resume. While your projects are important, they don't always steal the spotlight. Recruiters spend an average of just six seconds per resume, so extensive GitHub exploration is not always going to happen. Instead, focus on making your software projects practical and production ready. If it's an app, put it on the app store; if it's a website, make it public. This will make your projects more visible to potential employers.
You might be wondering if investing a significant amount of time in projects is worth it. While projects are valuable, networking can be an even more effective strategy. Employee referrals account for a substantial portion of all hires, ranging from 30% to 50%. With the odds stacked against you (an average of 250 resumes per job posting), fine-tuning your resume can significantly impact your job search, so consider where you invest your time wisely.
The reality is that most employers do not place a high emphasis on certifications. Unless a specific company mentions required certifications in their job descriptions, they are generally not a game-changer. Your time is better spent on building experience rather than collecting certificates.
The question of whether the same resume strategies apply for international students came up. The answer is that tailoring your resume to each company's specific needs and preferences is crucial. While US and UK resumes share similarities, practices differ in non-US countries. The key is to align your resume with each company's expectations.
For those concerned about constructing a list of technical skills effectively and dealing with the challenge of zero professional experience, the key takeaway is to showcase and quantify your work's impact. It's not just about listing skills but demonstrating why your work matters. For those with no professional experience, volunteering can provide valuable learning experiences and talking points for interviews.
We talk about the ten ways to show your impact in The Ultimate Resume Handbook, so check it out for the comprehensive list.
Your LinkedIn headline is a crucial aspect of your online presence. Start with your job title, such as "Software Engineer," to improve your discoverability. Recruiters use keywords to search for candidates, so include the right ones in your headline to increase your visibility to potential employers.
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) play a significant role in the hiring process. To improve your chances with ATS screening, use the right keywords and follow proper formatting on your resume. Stick with a one-column format to ensure compatibility with ATS systems.
In most cases, aim for a one-page resume, even if you have an impressive educational background. Remember, recruiters and hiring managers have limited time, and they're reviewing numerous resumes for one role. Make your resume concise and easy to skim through.
Many questioned why certain entry-level positions ask for 2-3 years of experience. In some cases, these requirements are legitimate. Certain institutions, like the University of Waterloo, mandate two years of internships as part of their curriculum. If you fulfill these criteria, you can secure such roles better. If you don’t your time may be worth more seeking for better aligned roles.
When it comes to software engineering roles, cover letters aren't typically required. Instead, focus your efforts on perfecting your resume and LinkedIn profile.
These insights are just the tip of the iceberg. The EXA Masterclass provided valuable advice for software engineers looking for job opportunities. The key to success is staying informed, networking effectively, and presenting your skills and experiences in the best light possible.
If you're eager to enhance your job search skills further and increase your chances of landing interviews, check out the Ultimate Resume Handbook for more comprehensive information on how you can optimize your own resume.
The right knowledge and strategies can make all the difference in a competitive job market. We're here to help you navigate the job market with confidence. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to me on LinkedIn. Your dream software engineering job could be just around the corner.
Exaltitude newsletter is packed with advice for navigating your engineering career journey successfully. Sign up to stay tuned!
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