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Uncommon Strategies that Maximized my Job Search

For first time job seekers and career switchers – I was in your shoes too

Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash
Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash

As someone who recently left the job search process, I understand how crazy and frustrating it can really be. In my case, I was looking to break into the tech industry. But, the issue was that I had no prior professional tech experience whatsoever. So, I attended a coding bootcamp’s Data Science program and received some needed experience. With their assistance, I was able to launch a new career as a Data Scientist! (You can learn more about that process below):

From Coding Bootcamp to Coding Job

After completing the bootcamp program, I learned a few job searching techniques not as widely known as they should be. These techniques are not exclusive to the tech industry and can be applied in nearly any industry. Hopefully, you might be able to use some of these unique tips to jumpstart your own career!

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Resumes and Cover Letters

First, I have to mention these two things – Resumes and Cover Letters. These are probably the two most important items needed for a job search. I know it can be annoying to fill up a job application then attach your resume with the same info you just entered seconds ago. I’ve done it probably dozens or more times in a week. But, what kind of advice can I give about resumes and cover letters that you haven’t heard already?

Tip #1: Optional = Required

A lot of times when you are applying for a job, you are given a section to upload your resume and cover letter. Many times in this section it is stated that it is optional to include them. No matter what, always include your resume and cover letter even if it says it is optional.

Including these documents affords you the opportunity to stand out from other applicants who haven’t uploaded their resume/cover letter. But how do these documents help you stand out? Well…

Tip #2: Customize Resume & Cover Letter

This is where you can exercise you creative skills. Make your resume and cover letter look unique, cool, and professional. Make it stand out from the other ordinary, uniform documents out there.

From what I’ve seen, a lot of data science resumes are very cookie cutter. In order for mine to stand out, I looked up resume templates online that were tech based and were quite unique looking.

It might seem shallow but having a distinct looking resume and cover letter may help catch the eye of a hiring manager. Just make sure the resumes and cover letter’s style themes coordinate well.

Tip #3: Tailor Resume and Cover Letter

Photo by Scott Graham on Unsplash
Photo by Scott Graham on Unsplash

This is probably the most import tip in regards to the resume and cover letter – Tailor them to the job. For Data Scientists, many companies require different responsibilities and skills from them. A generic resume and cover letter that don’t specifically mention items within the job post will probably go unnoticed. Use the job description as a guide to tailor your resume and cover letter so it shows you are the perfect fit for the role.

Regarding the cover letter, usually when writing one, you describe yourself, skillset, and why you should be hired. However, an alternative (and potentially more effective) approach would be to write about how you would perform the job and its tasks instead. The hiring manager already knows about you and your skillset from your resume. So why not describe how you would do the job?

For Example

For a data science job post, let’s say the position requires you to predict stock values from a time series dataset by using deep learning. Below are two options for how you can address this task:

A. I have several years of experience in Python, Deep Learning, and am capable of using data science tools for data visualization.

B. I will use Tensor Flow and Neural Networks to forecast stock prices and use Pandas and Plotly to organize and visualize the data for easy accessibility.

Now there is nothing wrong with Option A. However, Option B may be more appealing to a hiring manager because it describes the application of your skillset for the company by mentioning specific Data Science tools. This may lead to quicker responses from hiring managers and recruiters.

All in all

Make sure your resume and cover letter accurately respresent you. Don’t be afraid to brag about your accomplishments. Be confident in what you can do and make sure it shows in your resume and cover letter.


Network Online

After sending a job application, you might think you can just sit and wait for a response. But there is still much more you can do. For me, there were a lot of data scientists online I could reach out to and network with.

Photo by Chris Montgomery on Unsplash
Photo by Chris Montgomery on Unsplash

The next step should be to network with your potential coworkers and manager. You can do this by researching the company and searching for those who might be involved with the position you just applied for. It might seem like a daunting process, but it may help get your application viewed much faster than usual.

Here are some tips that can help you get started:

Tip #1: Use LinkedIn to Find Contacts

If you don’t have a LinkedIn account, I suggest you make one. Make it look really good because people like to see a full, clean profile!

With LinkedIn, you can search for the company you just applied to, then search the employees working there. Find your potential coworkers and managers. Also, it doesn’t hurt to reach out to their recruiters as well.

Personally, I’ve found LinkedIn as a great resource to discover veteran data scientists as well as newcomers such as myself. I’ve connected with so many that my LinkedIn feed is filled with machine learning and AI. My feed soon became a great resource for data science knowledge and new contacts!

Tip #2: Speak with your Contacts

When you have found the person you want to network with, connect with them. LinkedIn allows you to send a connect request with a message that you can use to explain who you are and what you want.

Alternatively, you might also find their email address on their profile. Some contacts might not check their profile often so an email might be a better approach.

Once you are connected, message them and politely ask for when they are available for a quick phone call. Use this call as an opportunity to learn more about them and to share a little about yourself. Do not go into the call expecting to ask them about a job.

When you have establish good rapport with them, then it might be appropriate to ask about your job application or even a job referral. However, don’t be dissapointed if they choose not to. The point of the call was to establish a professional relationship, not to get a job (although it may lead to a job down the line).

Tip #3: Network before Applying

Sometimes it might be better to focus on networking instead of sending job applications. Your conversations with other professionals can lead you to an introduction with a manager or another company that can use your skillset.

Professionals might even give you a referral link from their company which you can use to apply to their company. The referral job application might get you a quicker response than just applying to the standard job post.

If you end up speaking with a manager, you might be called up directly for a job Interview without even applying. Or they might know someone from another company and set you up with them!

In my experience, I was able to get in touch with a few data science directors who gave me a variety of advice. Most of the time I wouldn’t even mention a job but if I did they were able to refer me to a contact within another company or within their own company.

Overall, these outcomes may be a better alternative than just sending job applications.

Tip #4: Follow Up with and Keep Track of Your Contacts

Don’t be worried if your contacts don’t reply promptly as they could be very busy. It is extremely helpful to keep track of your contacts and when you contacted them.

I suggest giving a contact 3–5 days to respond to a message. If they haven’t responded by then, kindly follow up saying you are still eager to have a conversation with them.

If they still haven’t responded after the third try, relinquish communication and move on. It’s important to remember to not take it personally if a contact just does not respond at all.

To sum up

Networking is super helpful when it comes to finding your next job. A lot of people would rather hire someone they know than a stranger. Just make sure you have competent communication skills.


Create Content

If there is any way to demonstrate your skills, then find a way to showcase them online. This can lead to many different opportunities based on the people who see your content. Here are a few options to get you started:

Tip #1: Write Articles Online

If your desired profession can be displayed through writing, then write some articles on Medium or through your own blog. All you need to get started is an internet connection and a laptop or phone.

With my data science articles, I was able to gain the attention of several recruiters who needed a technical writer with a data science background.

Tip #2: Record Videos for YouTube

Maybe you want something more than just writing or you like video editing. Then, perhaps you can record videos for YouTube. You can use these videos to appropriately demonstrate whatever skillset you have.

Personally, I’ve viewed numerous data science focused videos. I knew of one Python programmer who mentioned in their video that they would receive job offers from FAANG companies because of his videos.

Your potential videos might be a greater representation of your skillset than writing. And, they might even lead to job offers too.

Tip #3: Create a Podcast

If a video is too much and you’d rather have your audience listen – why not create a podcast?

Recording a podcast would be a great way to share your own thoughts, ideas, and knowledge. Discuss topics related to your desired profession. Let your listeners know that you are knowledgeable in your subject matter.

Tip #4: Post on Social Media for Promotion

Posting on social media can be a quick way to share your content. Instagram may be good for your pictures if you’re a photographer. Twitter can be good to promote your videos or articles. Facebook can be used to create pages for your content as well.

In any case, social media can be used as a great marketing tool for your own content. Promote your content in any way you can. Build your audience and maybe one of them will reach out to you with a job opportunity!

In Summary

Content creation is an often forgotten asset for the job search. Many times it can also lead to self-employment opportunities because of how lucrative it can be. Mostly, your content will demonstrate your skillset better than a statement on a resume or email.


Closing Thoughts

I followed the tips above every day while Job Hunting. I wrote articles. I networked online. I messaged contacts and mentioned my articles constantly. Eventually, someone reached out and offered me a Data Scientist position because of my articles! (If you’re wondering, the article in question was):

I Made a Dating Algorithm with Machine Learning and AI

If there is one thing from the strategies above that I believe is the most important – it would be creating online content. My articles are the reason I have a job today. And I think the opportunities born from your content are more advantageous than you might expect.

I hope at least one of these approaches was something new to you and I wish you good luck on your own job search!


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