How to Find a Job in Chicago: A Survival Guide (Kinda)
So, you want to conquer the Windy City, huh? Not with your charm and wit (although, those will definitely help), but by actually getting a job here. Welcome to the jungle! Or, more accurately, the concrete jungle where dreams are made (or crushed, depending on your resume).
Step 1: Become a Networking Ninja
Networking is like speed dating, but less awkward and with higher stakes. The goal? Meet as many people as possible, preferably while casually sipping a craft beer. Remember, it's not what you know, it's who you know. So, start going to industry events, join professional organizations, and become the life of every office party (even if you're not invited).
Step 2: Master the Art of the Chicago Resume
Your resume is your personal brand, so make it shine (but not so much that it blinds recruiters). Keywords, keywords, keywords! Sprinkle them like confetti throughout your document. And for the love of all things holy, proofread! A typo can be a deal-breaker, especially if it's something like "proficient in Micrsoft Word."
Step 3: Embrace the Deep Dish Culture
Chicagoans love their deep dish pizza. Similarly, they love people who understand their city. Show some interest in local sports teams (even if you don't care), know your neighborhoods, and be prepared to discuss the best hot dog places. It's a cultural thing.
Step 4: Develop a Thick Skin
Rejection is part of the job hunt, especially in a competitive city like Chicago. Don't take it personally. Remember, every "no" brings you one step closer to a "yes." And if all else fails, there's always the option of becoming a deep-dish pizza delivery person.
Step 5: Leverage the Power of Reddit (Obviously)
You're already here, so you're on the right track! Subreddits like r/chicago and r/jobs can be goldmines for job leads and insider tips. Just remember, not everything you read on the internet is true, so take everything with a grain of salt.
Bonus Tip: Learn to love the cold. Seriously.
How to... Questions
- How to network effectively? Start by attending industry events, join professional organizations, and leverage online platforms like LinkedIn.
- How to write a Chicago-style resume? Tailor your resume to specific Chicago-based companies, highlight relevant keywords, and proofread carefully.
- How to prepare for a Chicago job interview? Research the company and the city, practice common interview questions, and dress professionally.
- How to handle rejection? Don't take it personally, learn from the experience, and keep applying.
- How to find the best deep-dish pizza? Ask a local! There's no definitive answer, but many Chicagoans have strong opinions.