The fact that the economy is tight right now is no surprise to anyone anymore. But there are jobs still available. I found my job at the end of the year when the economy was going south. I have several friends that have found jobs recently and I have several that are look. I’ve compiled a list of the things that I’ve seen, experienced and heard from others about finding jobs in this market.

Employers want to see experience
There are not as many jobs as there were a few years ago. Because of that, employers can be more selective. One friend of mine told me that several companies weren’t interested in talking to her until she told them about her experience. This is why internships in college are so important. If you don’t have work experience then talk about the projects you worked on in school that relate to the job you are applying for.

Find out where the customers are
People are still spending money. Find out who is still spending money on engineering services and apply to the companies that work in that field. For example, city and county budgets are set at the beginning of the year. In part it’s based on tax money they have already received. They will spend that money on projects. Engineering companies that cater to municipal clients are still doing well in this economy.

Learn people skills
This is an area that engineers typically don’t do well. Engineers work in teams and work with many different types of clients. The ability to talk to people is a valuable skill. When you talk to hiring managers and recruiters talk to them. Don’t just give them your resume and run away.

Do your homework
Know something about the company that you are applying to. Ask questions that directly relate to what they are doing. Use your answers to show how your skills relate to what they are doing.

Focus your resume
Make adjustments to your resume based on the job you are applying for. Each company has their own unique needs. Make sure that your resume shows that you meet those needs. You can find out those needs by reading the job description or by spending a few minutes on their website.

Differentiate
Use your resume, cover letter and face time to show how you are different. If you have more education than the next person, show it. If you have experience that the prospective employer could use, tell them about it. Make sure the employer knows why you are the perfect person for the job.

The basics matter even more
Since there are fewer jobs right now it is more important than ever to follow the basic rules when applying for a job. Make sure there are no typos in your resume or cover letter. Dress properly for an interview. Talk to your references so they aren’t surprised when they get a call. Be positive. Send thank you cards after an interview.

I could go on and on, but this covers the basics. What are some other important things you’ve found?

Whether you are interviewing for a full time job or an internship the basics are the same.  Here’s a few notes, tips and things to keep in mind for interviews.

BEFORE THE INTERVIEW

Everybody Has The Internet

Clear off anything that you posted on the internet that you wouldn’t want the interviewer to see.  Many companies regularly do a Google search before an interview.

Dress The Way The Boss Would

Guys, you should wear a suit and tie.  If it’s a hot environment or in the summer you can probably get away without a coat, but wear the tie.  Ladies, dress equivalently.  The civil engineering world is fairly conservative.  Dress professionally and at least one level higher than you think the job would generally require.

Prepare Answers for Questions

I’m planning an entire post on interview questions.  But have answers to typical questions ready.  Know a few strengths, at least one weakness, some goals, how you’ve handled difficult work situations in the past, etc.

DURING THE INTERVIEW

Qualifications

The interviewer knows that you are probably qualified or they wouldn’t take the time to interview you.  So during the interview, when they ask you about your qualifications, give them examples of specific things you have done in the past.

The Interview is Not About You.  It’s About How You Can Help the Company.

The interviewer wants to find out how you can help them.  The questions they ask will be geared toward this.  Tell them about your accomplishments and how you can use your accomplishments and skills to help them.

Part Of It Is A Personality Test

Whether or not they give you a written test interviewers will try to find out if you will fit in with the team.  The civil engineering field is very team oriented.  Engineers aren’t stereotypically know for there interpersonal skills.  Being able to work well with people is very important.  That is true for your coworkers as well as internal and external clients.

Ask When You’ll Here From Them

When the interview is winding down ask when you can expect to hear from them or when you should call them.  This will set your expectation.  Some places will take months to get back to you.  Some, just a few days.

Don’t Lie

Just like on your resume, don’t lie.  Tell the truth.  If you don’t know the answer then say so.  If the answers looks negative on you, then say what you’ve learned from the experience.

AFTER THE INTERVIEW

Say Thank You

Send a thank you note, or call the interviewer and thank them.   Not a text message or email.  Write the note by hand, or call them.  As old as this advice is it is amazing how few people do this and how effective it is.

Follow Up

If you say you’ll follow up with them at a certain time, then do it.

That’s a few key points.  What are some that you’ve run into that others should know?