Hacker News new | ask | show | jobs
by mindctrl-org 588 days ago
This is why so many SWE on the internet are saying things like "I've applied to 300 jobs in the last two weeks and have gotten no interviews". Because it's shotgun blasting applications instead of catering and customizing to the job and company.
2 comments

Hi thanks for your comment.

I think your strategy for applications depends a lot on what companies you're applying to and your experience. If you are applying to a smaller company that is likely to read your application then it might be worthwhile to tailor your application.

For very competitive jobs I didn't find tailoring my applications to be worthwhile. I spent many hours writing cover letters and tailoring my resume for companies that I ultimately never heard back from. I found that time was better spent applying to more jobs

That said, I don't think mass applications are the only strategy job seekers should employ. I think a combination of mass applications, cold outreach via email + linkedin, warm outreach to your network, and maybe a few tailored applications to roles you really want is best to maximize your odds

It’s hard for me to decide if I think this is exasperating the issue or simply leaning into the new reality or both.