I got an email a few weeks ago from a former student of mine when I taught at North Park University. He wanted to ask for advice on his job hunt. He had a specific question, which made it easier for me to provide a specific answer.
Part of his email said:
All the civilian sector jobs want 1-3 years of experience which I obviously don’t have. I’m not sure if I am psyching myself out or if I should be applying to these jobs still. I’ve been constantly looking on zip recruiter, glass door, LinkedIn, and GIS clearinghouse for jobs and I feel like I don’t fit any of their requirements. I think I’m just overwhelmed but would like some advice from someone who has been in my position at one point. Any advice would help.
The next day I saw someone in my network post a GIS job that sounded perfect for what he needed (entry-level and remote) and so I forwarded it to him. Tagging him on that post took me about 20 seconds to do. I would not have thought to tag him had I not known that he was looking for work.
He got the job. And sent me an email letting me know.
Here are a few lessons you can apply to your GIS Job Hunt:
1) Network and have people in your network with whom you have an ACTUAL relationship. I knew him as a student and so was able to provide advice to him in that manner. Your network can be professors, internship supervisors, or people you meet at events (like my mappy hours!). Connecting with people on LinkedIn who you don’t actually know can be helpful, but nothing beats an actual relationship with a person.
2) Work to stay top of mind with people in your network. Had he not reached out I would not have known that he was looking and wouldn’t have forwarded the job. Don’t go posting every day on LinkedIn that you are looking for work, but if you have been looking for a while you should post again. Also, reach out to your network.
When I changed jobs and was looking I sent an email like the following to a bunch of people in my network.
Hello [x]!
I hope that you are doing well. I wanted to let you know that I am “softly” going on the job market. What that means is that I’m not desperate to find a new job, but would be open to something new. I was wondering if you’d keep me in mind if you see any postings? Here’s some helpful information:
– Chicago, IL based. Not willing to relocated. Would love remote work.
-Research is my passion. Would love to have time to DIVE DEEP.
-Impact. I care about making an impact that will impact people’s lives.
As you hear of job opportunities I’d love it if you kept me in mind. I’m thankful for the work that you do and our friendship [x]. How can I be supporting you?
3) Follow up! When someone gives you a lead or even asks how the job hunt is going it is a great idea to follow back up. I was so elated when my student followed up to tell me that he got the job! It’s also ok to follow back up and say “I’ve taken your advice, it has been a few months but I’m still looking.”
4) Get help! It is totally fine to get help as you go through your GIS Career Journey. Did you know that I offer GIS Career Coaching to help you Map Your Future career? I’d love to be able to walk alongside of you in your career transition!