Senior Struggling to find Job
I'm wondering if anyone has any advice for me or is in the same situation. I am a senior studying mechanical engineering at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. I am near the top of my class, had two internships with major companies, I have leadership experience, I've been involved with student organizations, I am an Eagle Scout, etc. Despite the fact that most people tell me my resume and experience looks great, I am having a very difficult time finding a job. As far as I can tell, the job prospects for mechanical engineering isn't taking a dive, so I'm not sure why I am having such a difficult time. I've had a few interviews, but no offers. Most jobs I apply for I get rejected before receiving an interview.
Any thoughts or advice?
Hey Paul,
Don't be discouraged! I have a BS in Mech-E as well, and I've been turned down after interviews too and often before. Fight against the inner monologue that tells you that you aren't good enough. What that monologue should be saying is it must not have been a good fit - and over the long-term fit will be what matters. While I am serious about staying confident and optimistic, some practical advice probably helps too.
Technical Chops: You need to make sure the employer knows that you can do the job at every step of the application process. That means during the resume screen, your resume should list the classes you've taken and highlight that stellar GPA. If during a resume, you struggle on a static equilibrium (or mass transfer, or whatever) question, then definitely brush up there.
Be the one they can't pass up on. This one is trickier, but start from here: would you rather work surrounded by people who love the company mission or those that don't? I'm guessing people who love the mission. That means before a cover letter (and before an interview), you should make sure you know the mission and can relate to it. If you're interviewing for a car company, then a story about how a car represents adulthood and freedom to a 16 year-old or a story about how it feels to be behind the wheel of a new sports car will make you the "One They Can't Pass On". An HVAC company will appreciate you that being from Minnesota, you know know the misery of a malfunctioning HVAC unit. Aligning yourself to the company mission will make you the "One they can't pass on"
Hope this helps, and I hope you talk about FIRST Robotics a lot in both your cover letter and interview. Your resume shows that you are passionate about it. Happy to share more advice, but I think Technical Capability + Mission alignment is the way to go!
Sounds like you might not be delivering enough of a knockout blow on the interview to seal the deal. Get in touch with some of your contact where you interned and them to do mock interviews with you. That’s a good method to get industry role specific feedback on your interview responses and overall presentation. Your profile highlights functions, tasks, and responsibilities but could use more results. Think about adding details on how your work impacted the company during your intern tours.
I don't have a background in engineering Paul but the most common obstacle for new grads seeking employment is experience. Most companies don't consider interning to be "related work experience" and ofter look over recent grads for more experienced candidates. Right now your best venue to network for a job would be at a college job fair. Been to any of those in the Twin Cities this season? Recruiters at those events are better prepared to speak about employment opportunities that match your work background. Wish I could offer you more engineering related career seeking suggestions but I'm sure others members on this site will provide you with some gems. Best of luck in all you career endeavors Paul.
Ever think that you might look outside your home state, there could be more prospects in other states that are looking for some with your expertise.