While skilled trades jobs each have their own sets of unique skills and circumstances, the process of finding a job remains the same by and large. You still have to find job postings, apply, interview, and only if you get selected do you then start working the job. Here are some tips to make it easier for you take advantage of the plentiful opportunities in trade jobs.
Spruce up your resume
First things first. Before you even start your job search for a skilled trade position, you need to be sure your resume is up to snuff. It should be up to date and feature your relevant work experience, skills and education. If you need help, there are sample resumes available on the internet to use for reference. Simply search for a sample resume for the field you’re in. You don’t need to go overboard on adding flashy graphics and fancy formatting; as long as your experience and credentials are listed neatly in a way that employers can read, you will be fine.
Utilize job boards
A lot of trade schools have job boards that employers pay money to post on. The companies that do that are obviously interested in students from that school, which gives you a leg up when you apply for those jobs. There are also some job boards that are specifically for skilled trade workers. You can also see what’s available on Indeed, LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter and other popular online job boards. Searching the internet is a great way to find job boards. Word of mouth is a good way to hear about jobs as well, which takes us to the next tip.
Network, network, network
You may have heard the saying “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” when it comes to finding a job. That’s partly true. Knowing someone who works at a company can help you get your foot in the door for an interview. Once you get to an interview, however, what you know is pretty important as well. Networking with other people in your field (and not in your field) allows you to build relationships that can lead to other and better opportunities down the line. It also gives you the opportunity to pay it forward once you’re in a position to help someone else.
Take advantage of trade school career preparation services
Many trade schools offer some degree of assistance to their graduates when they are seeking employment. Trade schools also frequently host recruiters from companies looking to hire that school’s graduates. Working with a trade school’s career services department will also allow you to tap into the alumni network and make contacts at companies you otherwise wouldn’t were it not for that connection. Trade schools also typically offer help with other aspects of the job search, such as resume critiques and mock interviews.
Prepare for interviews
Practice makes perfect and interviewing for a job is no exception. Make sure you are prepared to answer common interview questions and have some questions of your own to ask the interviewer. Interviews are as much about the employer finding out if you’re a good fit for them as you finding out if they’re a good fit for you. It’s a two-way street. Rehearse your answers with a friend or family member. Even talking into a mirror can be helpful. Also make sure to dress appropriately based on the job for which you are applying. It’s still natural to have some nerves, but preparedness will help you feel more confident and make it easier for your personality to shine through in the interview.
Work as an apprentice
There are many skilled trades in which entry-level workers are taken under the wings of established journeymen in the form of apprenticeships. Apprenticeships allow those who are just starting out to gain practical real-world experience and learn even more skills. Apprentices also get paid for their on-the-job training. Working as an apprentice will allow you to increase your marketability by expanding your skillset, as well as make connections that can last your whole career.
Some of the best-paying trades are skilled trades, and the vacancies that are out there are yours for the taking with these tips. Before you can enter the workforce, it’s a good idea to have some skills and knowledge under your belt.
For that, Coyne College in Chicago can help you.
Find your skilled trade career at Coyne College
Coyne College is one of Chicago’s premier trade schools, offering skilled trade education programs for students in Chicagoland. Coyne College has something for everyone, offering comprehensive programs in the following occupations and trades:
• HVAC Refrigeration
• Electrical Construction and Planning
• Electrical Construction and Maintenance
• Medical Assistant
• Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
• Pharmacy Technician
Each of Coyne’s programs provides you with a healthy blend of textbook and hands-on learning to thoroughly prepare you for life in the field. Coyne’s highly knowledgeable instructors have years of professional experience in the field and will pass their in-depth knowledge on to you.
Coyne College offers day and night options in order to best accommodate students’ busy schedules. Our programs are taught at our campus in the heart of the Chicago Loop at the intersection of State and Madison Streets (aka “the world’s busiest corner”).
With more than 110 years of experience in helping aspiring skilled trade professionals build the foundation of their careers, Coyne College has a well-developed network of resources to help students gain employment after graduation, including mock interviews, externships and resume help.
To schedule a campus visit, talk with an advisor or request more information about our programs, call 800-720-3990 or visit https://www.coynecollege.edu/contact.
