Should finding a job really be that difficult? Will I ever land a job?
I graduate with my BS (in Computer Graphics Technology- 3D Animation) in about a week (December 17th). I have applied to 15 jobs as of writing this, have my resume up on about about 10 sites (a couple of staffing sites, general resume search sites, as well as creative/graphics-themed search sites). I have also emailed about 5-6 companies that did not have a specific link or form for applying. I’ve had maybe 3-4 rejections so far, one reply but it had no info on opportunities. I started applying in August and I’ve been looking in the Chicago region. After graduation, I’m hoping to go downtown and try to stop by in person at some of these places. Are my troubles pretty typical? Am I just not being patient enough? Am I doing something wrong? It’s a little frustrating not having a job yet. I’m trying to network with people and professors I know, but nothing’s come of it yet. Is it usually this hard to find a job after college?
Thanks for you help. I did already look at where previous graduates went, and I looked at some of those opportunities and even applied to a few of those companies.
More info… unfortunately, I can’t relocate… yet. I plan on being able to relocate in a few years, though. It’s complicated, but I have to stay near Chicago for now. Also, I’m specialized in 3D animation, but I can do- traditional sketching, traditional painting, digital painting, graphic design/layout, Flash animation, 3D modeling, rigging, and animation
April 9th, 2010 at 11:44 pm
You don’t need a job.
You need an income.
April 10th, 2010 at 12:01 am
Dude, I have a master’s degree, and in my two periods of unemployment, I applied for over 100 jobs. I got only about four interviews.
I have one now, but it happens. The job market is unpredictable. Just keep plugging away.
April 10th, 2010 at 12:36 am
yes its hard to find a job after college, usually jobs want people with hands on experience. In the computer industry it is reall hard to find a job because u have so much compeition n ur degree isnt that flexible.
April 10th, 2010 at 1:35 am
… find out where the other graduates in your program went after graduation … your school should have this info … if there are no jobs for the school to refer you to, then get a lawyer and get your money back from the school …
April 10th, 2010 at 1:39 am
The title of your degree suggests a VERY narrow skill set. That and the narrowness of your search (Chicago) are the reasons you are not finding anything.
What can you do with your skill set? Games? Everyone wants to work on games. Add that factor in – you have tons of competition for very few jobs.
The jobs you are looking for are in Silicon Valley. And there is very little relo in this economy. None that I know of for fresh outs. I think you will have to look for jobs in Silicon Valley, and be willing to move yourself there at your own expense. You may even have to get to your interviews at your own expense.
In short, expand your search. Good luck.
April 10th, 2010 at 1:52 am
i feel your pain. most people know how difficult job hunting can be. make good use of your school’s career center. their job is to help you find a job!!
also be sure that during your search, you include internships (paid of course). for some companies, the entry-level position is listed as an internship. its semantics but during the internet searches, the words you use make a world of difference.
GOOD LUCK!!!
April 10th, 2010 at 1:53 am
this is typical. Basically, you will need to apply to 15 – 20 positions for every 1 interview request. It’s challenging. But, don’t be shy about following up with those who decided not to hire you to ask for feedback on your interview and resume. If you do so professionally, it will really help position you for success moving forward.
April 10th, 2010 at 2:11 am
STOP thinking about getting a job. START thinking about being in business for yourself- because you already are. Everyone is, but few know it. Your product is you; your knowledge, skills, personality, attitude. When someone “buys” your product, (hires you) they are your customer. Customers are shopping for more than your diploma. They want a package deal.
Put yourself in their position. Would you want the best product you could get? Something reliable, with little maintenance and high productivity? Trouble free? Would you want to get fair value for your money? Of course you would.
Be sure of your product… then re-write your resume, your product’s “brochure”. Present it with pride and confidence, showing your prospective customer why you are the best choice for their needs.
Don’t narrow your field to much, be open to associated positions in the industry that relates to your primary skills. That puts your product in view of those who will need what you have, if not today- in the near future.
Research each potential “customer”. When you fill out the application, add a concise (1/2 page max) statement in addition to your resume. This should be a summary to present your product as it relates to the particular customer you are sending it to. Show them you know who they are, what they do, and how you can help.