How do I get a job interview?
<div class="user-question">I need help getting through the system for job applications. I feel that if I could just get my foot in the door, I could do it. But getting through to the interview stages is very difficult right now. What do I do?</div>
Hey everyone! My name is Kristina and I'm a part of the Frich team as a personal finance expert. Today I'll walk you through my Guide on Navigating the Job Application Process for entry level jobs.
Many students are bright-eyed about getting jobs and will apply last minute to roles or to a handful of roles. I’m here to burst your bubble (sadly); You need to be sending out at least 5-10 applications a week a full semester before jobs open up. So, follow along the checklist below for some practical advice on how to approach job applications, utilize tools like spreadsheets for organization, and set realistic expectations to streamline your job search.
Timing your applications
The earlier the better is a rule to follow when applying for jobs, especially for highly competitive roles. Start by researching the hiring cycles specific to your industry.
For example, finance and consulting often recruit in the early fall or even a year in advance, while other sectors might hire on a rolling basis. Applying ASAP allows ample time for interviews, follow-ups, and potentially multiple rounds of negotiations.
I remember getting my full-time job offer at Goldman Sachs a FULL YEAR before I was going to start work because I applied the week applications opened up. I truly enjoyed my senior year because my future career was already locked in.
Organizing with a spreadsheet
To keep track of multiple applications, create a detailed spreadsheet. This sheet should include:
💼 Company Name: Where you’re applying.
💼 Position Title: The role you’re interested in.
💼 Application Date: When you submitted your application.
💼 Follow-Up Dates: Set reminders to follow up if you haven’t heard back.
💼 Interview Dates: Keep track of when and where your interviews are scheduled.
💼 Status: Such as applied, interviewing, offer received, or rejected.
💼 Notes: Any specific details about the company or the role that you want to remember.
<div class="frich-tip">Frich tip: This spreadsheet will not only help you manage deadlines and follow-ups, but also allow you to see your progress at a glance, helping maintain motivation throughout the job search process. Remember, you need to be applying to 5-10 places a week and follow up at least twice if you do not hear back.</div>
Setting realistic expectations
Understand that not every application will lead to an interview and not every interview will result in a job offer. Set realistic expectations and prepare to face rejections. It's part of the process. Aim to apply to a mix of 'reach' and 'safety' positions.
Reach positions are those that may be a bit beyond your current experience level, while safety positions are those you are confident you have the qualifications for.
Additionally, realize that you may have to apply to over 50-100 jobs to get a handful of responses back. I remember sending over 200 applications for at least 6 months to get my ideal job offer at Goldman Sachs.
The importance of follow-ups
Following up is a key step that many applicants overlook. After submitting an application or interview, if you haven’t heard back within two weeks, it’s appropriate to send a polite follow-up email. Express your continued interest and inquire about the timeline for the hiring process. Similarly, always send a thank-you email after interviews. This not only shows your appreciation but also reinforces your enthusiasm for the role. It may feel like overkill, but sometimes I would finally hear back after my first or second follow-up. Don’t know what to say? Follow this template:
Also don’t forget to write a thank you note! These can go a LONG way in interviews. Feel free to also follow the template below:
Leverage networking
While applying online is standard, don’t underestimate the power of networking. Reach out to alumni, attend industry conferences, and participate in relevant webinars to make connections. Sometimes, a recommendation from a connection, especially at the company you want to work at, can give you a significant edge.
Another way is to apply to pre-internships. A pre-internship, often called an internship prep program or exploratory internship, is a preliminary program designed by corporations to prepare students or early career individuals for future internships or full-time roles.
These programs are typically shorter and less intensive than full internships, aimed at providing participants with foundational skills, industry insights, and a basic understanding of the company's culture and operations. I, myself, attended two pre-internships, one with Bank of America and one for Goldman Sachs that both lead to internships and full-time offers.
By effectively managing your job applications using these strategies, you will enhance your ability to secure a desirable position in a competitive job market.
Found this valuable? Here are some more deep dives from the Frich team 🤝
✅ Is finding my dream job unrealistic?
✅ How are people getting entry level jobs rn??
✅ Strategies for getting a raise
Remember, consistency and perseverance are your best allies in this journey. Download the spreadsheet and start tracking your progress and remember - it’s a numbers game so keep on applying!
Kristina
