Feel free to make a copy of this template and customize it. In the right corner, click to duplicate

A proactive job search begins with identifying companies you may be interested in. Make networking your first step and your resume your second.

  1. Review Turing's Finding Companies and Contacts document for a list of companies that have hired junior developers. Use job boards, LinkedIn, and other sources to create a good list of companies that interest you.
  2. Engage your network as a developer in the industry**.** Who can you connect with at the company?
  3. Research the type of roles the company hires for that may be posted online. If a role isn't posted, you can continue to network. Your contact may be able to offer a referral link for roles not posted publicly.
  4. Install the Huntr or another job tracker to organize your job search and interviews.
  5. Add up to three open roles to your job tracker.

The Job Description

  1. Prioritize your job applications. Choosing the one that excites you most can be helpful.
  2. Cut and paste each job description into a Google Doc so you can refer to it later. There is a possibility that the link will expire.

Perform a SWOT analysis of the Job Description

  1. Review the job description and perform a SWOT analysis. The analysis will visually help you capitalize on your strengths and overcome weaknesses.
  2. S=Start by highlighting your strengths. These are all words, terms, and statements you relate to, have knowledge of or have experience with. They are programming languages, leadership, customer service, teamwork, and location.
  3. W=Everything not highlighted is perceived as a weakness. Make all perceived weaknesses into opportunities. How can I meet the specific qualifications required for the job? When I have no experience with technology, how can I learn it?
  4. O = Overcome perceived weaknesses with accomplishment examples and statements highlighting your unique knowledge, skills, and abilities.
    1. For example, sharing how quickly you learned a new technology for a recent project.
    2. Or share a life experience or volunteer work that shaped your values and connects to the company's target market.
  5. T=Threats come from the field and are beyond your control. Another candidate may bring education and experience to the table.

Customize and apply