Are you struggling to land your first job as a software developer?

When you’re looking for your first job as a developer, you hear and see a lot of different tips, especially on LinkedIn. When you are applying, not getting calls, and not getting offers, you might find yourself turning to these gurus for a magic bullet. The problem is, the magic bullet is different for each person.

“It’s a numbers game"

This is misleading. If you are randomly submitting resumes to hundreds of places, it becomes a numbers game by default. Everyone has different motivations for getting into this field. For the most part, it’s a ticket to a better life, and a lot of new developers don’t care who they work for or with. This is an additional problem that contributes to people treating the process like a numbers game. Investigate companies. Talk to potential co-workers. Look for a culture that is conducive for learning and growing. No matter how good you are or how well you understand, being exposed to a huge codebase that’s constantly changing will be intimidating, and will take you a while to acclimate to. Make finding a good environment your priority, and narrow your focus to these companies.

“You need to cater your resume"

This depends on the company. Not always important, especially if automated systems aren’t being used to filter resumes. This can’t hurt but it is one of those things that can go either way. I personally used the same resume for every position I applied for, so it’s definitely not always a deal breaker. In my mind, if it is, I would wonder why.

“Don’t forget the cover letter"

This goes along with the resume. I think this is just an opportunity to set yourself apart from other applicants. Sometimes though, cover letters tend to be verbose. I wouldn’t say to ignore this step if given the opportunity. I would say that authenticity will serve you better than the same ol' “hard worker" lines. A lot of hiring managers have been burned before and they are looking for specific things to ensure that doesn’t happen again. Pleading with someone to believe you are a “hard worker", is usually a huge red flag.

“Recruiters don’t work for entry level developers"

I would say there is some truth to this. If you are applying to genuine “entry-level" positions that are paying 50k, there is not any room for recruiters to make money. What level of developer you are qualified to be paid as, really depends on how you present yourself. Not only your knowledge, but your problem solving ability, experiences, and your mentality. This could be your first job as a developer, but that doesn’t actually mean you are “entry level". Deployed applications, collaborative projects, continuous integration, tech knowledge, and life experiences can set you apart from the average “entry level" candidate.

“So what is the magic bullet?”

Honestly, it’s treating the job hunt like you treat development. Problem solve and adjust accordingly. If you are applying and not getting calls, then you aren’t making networking connections, and probably haven’t had numerous eyes on your resume for feedback. There could be typos, flow problems, loud structure, or a multitude of other things that could be tweaked. You could be applying to jobs that have been open for weeks and have already closed their process. So if you aren’t getting calls, examine what you’re doing in that process, and change it.

If you are getting calls(screens), but no interviews, what are you saying in those calls that can be taken the wrong way? Write down the questions you were asked and responses, and run them by others. Get feedback.

If you are getting interviews and not getting offers, where are you struggling there? How you answer questions? The answers themselves? Are you uncomfortable? Does it show? Lots of recruiters give tips on how to improve here. Again, authenticity can help make sure you find the right fit.

In summary, just problem solve. If you are getting lots of calls, then leave your resume and application process alone. If you are getting lots of interviews but no offers, direct your attention there. Be a problem solver.