As an Associate Career Services Director for the University of Michigan and the CEO of Break into Tech, I’ve had the privilege to work with hundreds of students during the job search while trying to launch their careers. And it’s an area I’m particularly proud to support, having leveraged my own student experience to land roles at Apple, LinkedIn, and startups.
But the one thing that shocks me time and again is that 95% of students make the same mistake when it comes to landing a job. And no, it’s not a bad resume, or a poorly written cover letter or even weak interview skills. Instead, it’s that most basic trait:
Humility.
Yes, humility.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Huh? How hard could it be to act humble?”
But here’s the real deal. That same confidence is a handicap. Because it blinds students to just how hard it is to stay humble in a world where everyone always has to be on, to constantly present their best self.
As evidence, allow me to submit my experience as a Michigan alum working at LinkedIn:
On the other hand, about 2-3 times a year, the sequence would go very differently:
And sure enough, about 2-3 times a year, I’d write an internal recommendation for a student, basically guaranteeing them an interview.
Now, any guesses which students I went to bat for?
Hopefully that illuminates two things about the job search:
BUT
Which means no:
So consider yourself warned. Yes, humility is critical to your job search success. But don’t assume it’s going to be easy. Instead, make it a priority and work hard at it. And then you can avoid the biggest mistake that’s trapped so many others!
Jeremy Schifeling, CEO of Break Into Tech
Need more help networking and figuring out how to build great relationships on your way to finding a great entry-level job? College Recruiter can help. Keep reading our blog and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
Jeremy Schifeling is the Founder + Chief Nerd at Break into Tech, a site for anyone who wants to land an awesome tech job, no matter their background. Get a free guide to the seven ultimate secrets that took Jeremy from school to Silicon Valley!
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