I was watching the Today show a few days ago and Meredith Vieira (not that I watch the show as a habit or am a huge fan of Meredith, but I digress) had an interesting segment discussing the college application process.    

She actually interviewed Rachel Korn author of “How to Survive Getting into College” who provided some excellent information on what admissions officers look for in a candidate, what applicants can do to improve their chances and mistakes to avoid.

I feel like I could change the title of the book to “How to Survive Searching for (and Getting) the Technical Job of Your Dreams”, alter a few words and chapters and the information would be completely applicable to technical job seekers.

One tidbit Korn mentioned hit a really strong note with me.  She said something to the effect that a big mistake many students make is that they apply to “big name” schools even though they may not have a program they want or are passionate about attending that school.  Admissions officers are seeing right through this ploy and rejecting many applicants based on the fact that they aren’t the right match for the institution.  Korn feels strongly that finding the right fit is the key to getting accepted into college.  For instance, if you are particularly interested in Russian History, research and find the top programs in the country in this area and apply to those schools.   You’ll have a much higher likelihood of getting into the university as well as getting the education you want.

Take this thought and apply it to your own job search.  Are you truly passionate about the company you are applying to or are you using it as a “resume booster”?  Are there other companies out there that would be a better match for your skills and interests even if they are smaller?  Microsoft, Google, Yahoo! – these may all be “hot” commodities, but they may not necessarily be the right environment for you or provide you with the experience you need.

In conducting your job search, spend time thinking about the specific technologies that you want to develop partnered with your career goals.  What companies are pioneering in these areas?  Would you be willing to relocate to their base of operations?  What value could you add to the organization given your experience?  Do they offer you the career path you are seeking?

Just as Korn indicates, I also feel strongly that finding a company that is the right match is the key to career happiness.  Additionally, recruiters and hiring authorities will be able to sense your passion and interest and you will have a higher chance of landing your dream job. 

Interesting how life history seems to repeat itself, huh?