If you are looking to get the attention of a STEM recruiter, here are some useful resources you can use to maximise your chances.
In the modern age, virtually every job requires a CV or résumé that covers much of the same information, such as educational background, work history and skills. But that doesn’t mean that your job application should follow a one-size-fits-all format.
If you are looking for a new job in the STEM sector, but your current documentation doesn’t reflect your past experiences or future goals, what resources might come in handy?
Niche template
There are countless templates available online to help you draft a CV, but rather than clicking on the first ‘professional’ looking one you find, make sure that you source a CV that is geared towards the STEM space.
Useful resources, for example Template.net, Novorésumé and Indeed can show you the difference between a standard CV and one that will incorporate the elements of a STEM application, so you can target the companies and sectors that most appeal to you.
A typical CV will likely cover your contact information, educational background, skills and achievements. But a STEM-based application should also have room for any research projects you undertook, work that you published or were involved in, areas of certification and the labs, academics and professionals you worked with.
If you are looking for a research position, many universities will often include a template for how they would like you to apply. So make sure you use them.
Powered by AI
Artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies have been heavily criticised for their potential to take over and minimise the abilities of the workforce. Not only are people fearful that they could lose their job to AI, but issues such as plagiarism, the death of creativity and a lack of critical thinking, are also on the rise.
But the existence of technology is not a strong reason to fear it. Rather, we should fear unregulated technologies and the dangers of becoming overly reliant on non-human assistance. For many, especially those with additional needs, AI is a lifeline that can bridge the gap when it comes to job hunting, by making the process easier and more accessible.
So, if you feel that you need a little extra help, or if you are over burdened, AI is an ideal resource to give you an edge and make the job of job hunting run more smoothly.
ChatGPT for example can point you towards examples of a strong STEM template, it can give you a rough draft for an accompanying cover letter, that you could then amend to showcase your own style and goals and it can even generate a list of STEM organisations in your location, that you may want to apply to.
AI-powered grammar platforms, such as Grammarly, can help you spot spelling mistakes, correct punctuation errors and refine or enhance your style. Just make sure you use AI as a guide and an aid, not as a replacement for your own work or point of view.
Leverage ATS
Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are widely used models that let an organisation streamline the hiring process by applying a range of advanced tools and using analytics to achieve a desired outcome. One way this is used by organisations is by implementing an ATS device to scan for specific words that determine if the author of a CV is worth interviewing.
Platforms, such as Rezi, Resume Worded and Jobscan are sites where you can upload your CV, set your criteria and have it scan for suitability against an ATS model. Many sites will score your level of ATS compliance and offer feedback about how your CV reads, as well as the likelihood of the application being quickly discarded.
It can be a great confidence boost to know that your STEM CV checks all the boxes and that you have done all you can to ensure that your application ends up in front of the right people. If you score poorly, on the other hand, it is also a great opportunity to take a second look and make a few tweaks, rather than sending in an application that won’t go anywhere.
Writing a compelling STEM CV, with the goal of securing a new job, may seem like a high-pressure and high-stakes endeavour, where rejection is more common than success. But really it is your chance to make good use of a range of resources, better acquaint yourself with productivity tools and improve your own digital literacy. The job is the icing on the cake.
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