Since I started formally counting, I have submitted 45 non-academic job applications. I thought I would give everyone a breakdown of the statistics regarding number of interviews and job offers. As I am fond of numbers, I will try to provide the technical analysis at a basic level. I truly hope it doesn't water down the results, and I can provide the comprehensive analysis if requested. So here it is:
Number of applications: 45
Number of in-person interviews: 0
Number of phone interviews: 0
Number of phone interviews for jobs I didn't apply for: 1*
So, I think the stats say it quite clearly, and the sample size is not too bad. First off, I should stop applying for jobs. Secondly, if I stop applying for jobs (at least those I believe I am remotely qualified for), then the number of requested interviews increases dramatically. In total, if I do nothing then I am bound to receive more interviews than if I rigorously apply.
One of the 45 jobs I applied for was a perfect match, even given my academic qualifications. At the time of applying, I was confident I would at least be contacted for a follow-up. There was no way that I wouldn't move to the next step. Alas, I received the email (at least a notification, right?) that I wasn't selected. Another job was a bit of a stretch in terms of qualifications, but I wrote a great cover letter explaining how I could do the job well, and it was in an area relevant to my work. It seemed like the perfect transition out of academia. I even alluded to it in a previous post as 'The perfect job'. Well, I guess you know how that turned out. Sure, a few of my applications were far-fetched, but the majority had strong ties to my qualifications. I feel like I am on the black list.
No more applications for me. What ever happened to fate? Fate is my new best friend. If I am supposed to have a job, then it will just all work out. Ahh... wishful thinking, where have you been all my life?
* Ok, an internal recruiter at one of the companies I applied for gave my application to another internal recruiter in a different branch, and I was severely under-qualified (or over-qualified, don't they mean the same thing?) for the position. The 'interview' was a bit awkward as I tried to explain that I didn't apply for this type of position while at the same time I 'begged' to be considered anyway. So much for pride.
