First, I want to apologize for bringing up this topic as it has already been discussed several times in previous threads. However, I decided to start a new one given the unique circumstances that define my problem and what my approach has been.
I am just completing a MSc in Electrical and Control Engineering. I currently work as a Technical Analyst at a big IT firm in town, a position I have held since completing my undergraduate degree.
I am now looking for jobs in Instrumentation and Control and unsurprisingly to lack the experience needed. I have realized that most jobs in I&C require some degree of PLC programming so I decided to start reading books on the subject. I also though of buying a cheap plc and setting up a little 'factory' in my house as suggested in one post but budgetary constraints is setting me back.
I'll admit though leaving Regina to a place like Calgary, AB would increase my chances of getting an interview. However, i have a family to feed and do not want to run the risk of relocating only to find myself unable to cater to the needs of my little one when savings run dry given that it does take a while to get a job.
My job search strategy has been as follows:
- Sent my resume to friends to distribute when they see an opportunity.
- Visited a gov't website ( that list all companies, visiting these company websites and sending my resume for any open positions listed. Problem I face again though is my lack of immediate experience.
- Seriously considering taking the bull by the horn and relocating to Calgary AB, next year.
- Listing my MSc on my resume for how do I account for the 2.5 years if it deliberately ommitted?
I have also read comments on tailoring one's resume and cover letter to the job requirements but what does one do with such limited experience? I HAVE to find a way of circumventing the famous catch 22. I have to find a way of telling the people making these decisions that I am willing to take on any challenge? I know the HR person must have heard or read this one before. Nonetheless, how do I snag the attention of these hiring managers with a limited work experience? After putting myself on the otherside of the fence I realize that something out of the ordinary must be done for a candidate with my profile to get that interview.
I have also considered making my cover letters in point form. First line telling them what position I am applying for, second paragraph in point form listing what I can offer in relation to the job and last paragraph for contact. The downside of this is that I do not potray my communication skills but the upside is the short and concise form of the letter. Is this a good strategy?
What else can I do to get this first interview? Adding to my arsenal will be a strategy on calling as many companies as possible to make appointments with those who make the decision but again there is the task of bypassing the receptionist to get these contacts. They always ask if one has an appointment so I have to come up with a strategy. Any recommendations?
Most of my friends got their first jobs through networking. Unfortunately, I do not have the kinds of network resources they have for I also did not go through co-op. Nevertheless, I'm starting to make a list of all my friends, classmates, etc and tracking these guys (girls) down for leads. They say it is whom you know especially for that first job and with limited experience.
If is definitely obvious that I have to do something dramatic to get that interview. Relocating is a good start but there must be something else I can do in the meantime. To make this process fun, I am treating it as an engineering problem that needs a cheap and fast solution!
What recommendations do you have? Thanks for reading and again I apologize for the long rambling.
TIA.
Klaus
I am just completing a MSc in Electrical and Control Engineering. I currently work as a Technical Analyst at a big IT firm in town, a position I have held since completing my undergraduate degree.
I am now looking for jobs in Instrumentation and Control and unsurprisingly to lack the experience needed. I have realized that most jobs in I&C require some degree of PLC programming so I decided to start reading books on the subject. I also though of buying a cheap plc and setting up a little 'factory' in my house as suggested in one post but budgetary constraints is setting me back.
I'll admit though leaving Regina to a place like Calgary, AB would increase my chances of getting an interview. However, i have a family to feed and do not want to run the risk of relocating only to find myself unable to cater to the needs of my little one when savings run dry given that it does take a while to get a job.
My job search strategy has been as follows:
- Sent my resume to friends to distribute when they see an opportunity.
- Visited a gov't website ( that list all companies, visiting these company websites and sending my resume for any open positions listed. Problem I face again though is my lack of immediate experience.
- Seriously considering taking the bull by the horn and relocating to Calgary AB, next year.
- Listing my MSc on my resume for how do I account for the 2.5 years if it deliberately ommitted?
I have also read comments on tailoring one's resume and cover letter to the job requirements but what does one do with such limited experience? I HAVE to find a way of circumventing the famous catch 22. I have to find a way of telling the people making these decisions that I am willing to take on any challenge? I know the HR person must have heard or read this one before. Nonetheless, how do I snag the attention of these hiring managers with a limited work experience? After putting myself on the otherside of the fence I realize that something out of the ordinary must be done for a candidate with my profile to get that interview.
I have also considered making my cover letters in point form. First line telling them what position I am applying for, second paragraph in point form listing what I can offer in relation to the job and last paragraph for contact. The downside of this is that I do not potray my communication skills but the upside is the short and concise form of the letter. Is this a good strategy?
What else can I do to get this first interview? Adding to my arsenal will be a strategy on calling as many companies as possible to make appointments with those who make the decision but again there is the task of bypassing the receptionist to get these contacts. They always ask if one has an appointment so I have to come up with a strategy. Any recommendations?
Most of my friends got their first jobs through networking. Unfortunately, I do not have the kinds of network resources they have for I also did not go through co-op. Nevertheless, I'm starting to make a list of all my friends, classmates, etc and tracking these guys (girls) down for leads. They say it is whom you know especially for that first job and with limited experience.
If is definitely obvious that I have to do something dramatic to get that interview. Relocating is a good start but there must be something else I can do in the meantime. To make this process fun, I am treating it as an engineering problem that needs a cheap and fast solution!
What recommendations do you have? Thanks for reading and again I apologize for the long rambling.
TIA.
Klaus
