I am a pretty positive person but I think I am starting to lose perspective.
This summer I have interviewed at:
1) Mainstreet.com
2) VOGUE
3) Harper’s Bazaar
4) W
5) Glamour
6) National Geographic
7) One of NY’s biggest PR firms
8) I got hired at one particular publication that can’t afford to print the fall issue.
I am 0 for 8. I am on a first name basis with check in at Conde Nast and Hearst.
I can’t think of anything I say during the interview that implies, “unabomber.” I trust my references (if they even check em) to say nice things. For someone two months out of college I have a number of internships/ experience and jobs. Getting college credit isn’t a problem. I have to be a better worker then the girls on the Hills?
I think my problem is that I’m interested in all of it: writing, graphic design, photography, advertising, fashion and culture. So my resume reflects a person who has done a lot of different things. Is this normal?
I do apparently write an excellent cover letter.
sara, dont loose hope.
sara, dont loose hope. sometimes it just takes time, that’s called luck. you will get the desired opportunity soon.
Sticker Design | Interactive banner design | Certificates Design
Agree with writermonkey
Agree with writermonkey below … even tho it may not feel like it, you really are doing great only 2 months out of school with that many interviews at that caliber of publications, so feel positive about that at least! It likely will take time.
BUT yes, one thing that MAY be hindering you a bit is that you haven’t narrowed down what you want to do. Generally the art and edit side of things are pretty separate in terms of hiring. Of course they collaborate, but they’re looking for very different terms on the resume. Don’t know if you format your letters/resume for each different type of job (for example, downplaying the writing if you’re applying for an art job), but you should definitely do that. Yes, in theory it’s awesome that you have such a well-rounded background and it WILL greatly help you, but that can easily be viewed as though you don’t know what you want and therefore might not be a stable hire. So even if it’s not true, act like all you want to do is edit or design or whatever it is you’re applying for. And if you can help yourself narrow down your goals, that would also help.
wow
You are only two months out of college and have interviewed at all those places? I would say that’s actually pretty great. Yes, it might seem like all you’re hearing right now is “no” but keep your head up; it’s an extremely tough market right now and if you’re getting in the door so quickly at that many places it’s only a matter of time before one of them hires you.
And P.S. feel free to pass along your excellent cover letter tips! That’s really great you are getting good feedback on that since it’s something many of us struggle with! Keep your head up!
definately share some tips on the cover letter!
Would be appreciated!