Applying for a job & work experience
Few companies have application forms for work experience or graduate positions. This is because most engineering companies in Adelaide are small and do not recruit many people. To find a position you will need a good application (CV and covering letter) and be prepared to arrange meetings with employers to discuss opportunities.
If you chose to write a letter as an initial way to make contact - you will also need to provide a resume.
It is important to make sure your spelling and grammar are correct. If you speak English as a second language please find an Australian friend to read and edit you application.
Covering Letter
You should always write a covering letter when you are applying for a job or work experience. Covering letters act as an enthusiastic introduction to your resume and/or application form and show you that you can do the job.
A covering letter should be no longer than one page in length (examples of covering letters). Ensure you write the letter formally with the addresses in the appropriate places, the correct title for the addressee and ensure your application is written with words suitable for business.
Here are some suggestions for the structure of your work experience covering letter:
In the first paragraph
Explain that you are required to do 12 weeks work experience as part of your degree.
In the second paragraph
Explain why you are interested in working for this employer. This is your chance to show the employer that you have researched the company and have a genuine interest in working there.
In the third paragraph
Explain what you can contribute to the employer - which of your skills would benefit the employer and why. Remember to give examples of your skills. i.e. 'Your organisation values initiative. I was one of the founding members of Network Mawson Lakes - a community group which...' or 'From your website I understand that you program in C++ and Java. I have used these languages to program...'
In the fourth paragraph
Explain that you have attached your resume. End with a polite statement such as 'I look forward to hearing from you' or 'I will call in the next few days to arrange a meeting to discuss this further'.
Resumes (CV) for Engineers - specific tips for
engineers writing resumes
- Research the employer's requirements
Your resume is a chance for you to sell yourself to the employer. Have a look at the employer's requirements (technical skills, qualities, etc.) and clearly address these on your resume by using appropriate headings and changing the order of items to reflect the employer's priorities.
- Describe your degree
When describing your degree remember that engineering employers are looking for people who have good interpersonal skills and project management skills. Makes sure you write bullet-pointed specific examples when describing your degree. Mention the aims of your project, the number of people in your project group and the outcome.
- Write about technical skills
Include any computer programming languages and your ability to use MATLAB
- Mention your interests
Include voluntary work, technical interests, sports, in fact anything that shows you are logical, can solve problems, work well in a team and can communicate well. Examples would include building model cars, playing football or an instrument in an orchestra. Write enough detail about these to show your commitment to the activity. i.e. Play tennis on a weekly basis and have represented the state in a competition.
- More tips on writing resumes
Networking
Many engineers will find work/work experience through people they know. Although it is an advantage to have ready-made network contacts, it is possible for students from interstate, or overseas, to develop productive relationships while at university. More tips on networking
Choosing Contacts
It is best to speak to people who can make decisions. This may be the CEO, a line manager of the department you wish to work in or Human Resources.
It is always easier to contact someone you know personally, or a friend of a friend.
If you are unable to identify a suitable individual after asking around, you could find a company and then identify your contact. Try searching the company website or phoning the receptionist to identify the right person to speak to.
Preparation
You are much more likely to make a good impression if you are prepared by thinking through the questions you want to ask employers. Consider whether you want to prepare a resume prior to the networking meeting.
Dress
This is not an interview so you are not expected to wear a suit. However, your appearance will create an impression. It is therefore sensible to dress in a similar fashion to other employees at the organisation. It is better to be too smart than too casual.
Contacting the employer
Your initial communication may be by telephone but face-to-face meetings tend to be more successful.
- Confidently introduce yourself by giving your name and possibly your degree title, area of interest, and/or other career aims.
- Explain that you are looking for work experience which is a requirement of your degree
- Tell the employer why you have contacted them (maybe you are interested in the product that they make or you have heard that they work with innovative technology, etc.)
- In one sentence explain what you could offer the employer (i.e. Java programming skills, problem solving, etc.)
- Ask if they have any vacancies
- If the answer is 'no' then ask if they can recommend a company who may have work experience. This is a way of extending your contacts and will give you more ideas of people to phone.