Jeff Martin ⋅ Ashburn, VA The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System ⋅ 25 years experience

I would switch your focus from applications to networking. Companies get hundreds of applications for open roles and most resumes barely get a glance, but a referral from a current employee can make all the difference in the world. I suggest making a list of target companies and then use LinkedIn to try and network with people already at those companies. You could ask current employees to help you understand the hiring process at their company or you could ask them the process they used to land their job and eventually you might get someone to submit you as a referral and get your resume to the top of the list for an open job. Hope this helps.

Bernard Agrest ⋅ Tulsa, OK Teach for America ⋅ 5 years experience

Hi Cordney,

I hope you're doing well and that you and your family are all doing well and staying safe during these uncertain times.

I would echo the comments made here already:

1) Make sure that your resume is tailored to each job. Look for the most prominent keywords that are on the job description and make sure you can have them be applied meaningfully on your resume.

2) Make sure that your cover letter is also tailored, well written and shows not just your skill set but the intangibles that you bring to the table.

3) Reach out and network where you can - get a free year of LinkedIn premium, and utilize it. Connect with recruiters, use the search function to target former service members who are working at companies you are interested in working at and ask them to make referrals where appropriate.

4) Lastly, and unfortunately, the economy is shifting pretty significantly at the moment. You're faced with a lot more competition than you were even 2 months ago.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if I can be of any help!

Best,

-Bernard.

Jay Mehta ⋅ Aurora, OH Raytheon ⋅ 14 years experience

Mr. Harris, Thank you for your service.
When you do apply for a job, if possible, please tailor your experience in accordance with the job requirements. This way, you will come out as a better fit. Also, try to include a cover letter when you apply. This will show an effort on your part and you will stand out. Last but not least, research the company as much as you can ahead of the interview. This way, you could ask questions that one would only know if they had researched the company.
If you have a resume, I will be happy to review it for you. Jay

Cordney Harris ⋅ Charlotte, NC U.S. Navy, Chief Petty Officer ⋅ 20 years served

Hi Mary,

Thank you for your response and support. Yes. I've had a few interviews but no one ever responds when I request feedback. I'll email you my LinkedIn link and resume when I settle down this afternoon. Thank you very much!!

Sincerely,
Cordney

Mary Sheridan ⋅ Park Ridge, IL Intuit ⋅ 20 years experience

Thank you for your service, Cordney! That’s frustrating and the transition can be daunting. Have you been getting any interviews? If So, are you asking for feedback and getting any? I would be happy to review your resume. Have you created a LinkedIn page yet? If so, please send that my way. marytsheridan@yahoo.com.