How to Get Hired at [a place like] Viget Labs
Web business is booming again -- and, as a result, new staffing requirements emerge every day. Like many of my colleagues at fellow web consulting firms, however, I find it frustrating to sift through the [virtual] mound of resumes to identify those perfect job candidates. I've been with Viget Labs since we started (in my basement no less!) and have been at the forefront of our recruiting activities since Day 1.
Over the years, I've read thousands of resumes and cover letters and have interviewed hundreds of candidates. If you're interested in applying for one of our job openings, I'd like to share 5 tips on what we look for and how to grab my attention and distinguish your application from the rest of the pack.
1. Include a customized cover letter or introduction in your email selling yourself, your capabilities, and the contribution you hope to make here. Highlight the skills you have that match the skills identified in our job description. So few people take the time to do this that those who do really stand out and make a great impression.
2. Carefully proofread your resume and cover letter. Every job here may not require writing as a core job function; but, every job here does require attention to detail and a commitment to quality -- and an error-ridden resume or email speaks volumes.
3. Designers, update (and trim) your online portfolios. We're extremely picky and are looking for the best of the best. We want to see your most current work and we want URLs so we can take a peek at your code. We'd rather see a limited number of examples of your best work than many examples of outdated or mediocre work.
4. Developers, have code samples at the ready. If your introduction and resume pique my interest, I'm going to be asking to see a code sample as the next step.
5. Prepare for our initial phone interview -- and relax! I'm really a very nice person and enjoy talking to people about their previous experience, their passion for technology, and how they can help us continue to do kick-ass work. Keep those resumes coming -- and good luck!
