7 tips for Young Civil Engineers before applying to PM company

You’ve just finished school or not yet, you do not really have work experience, and are somewhat confused which direction to choose. Therefore, the question is “what to do to be a little bit more secure about own future.” That is why I present here couple of things you should consider doing or knowing before starting your job hunt:

1. Language – this is the most important skill for the international companies. Not only you have to communicate with your peers in foreign divisions, but also you have to be able to communicate with international clients …and they are not the minority, believe me! The most useful languages in the industry are English and German. Of course, if you know other ones, it is a plus. Your English should be at least advanced.
2. Software - if it comes to MS Office suite, it should be obligatory to know intermediate Excel & Word, and advanced MS Project. Do not leave home without that! Additionally, you should have a good knowledge of AutoCAD & Norma PRO. It’s a huge plus if you know Sigma, Revit, Nova Point or Primavera.
3. Just a little bit of experience – it’s good to be present at the building sight at least once, this might be very important for the PM companies. 
4. Personal Projects – showing your personal project allows an employee to assess your academic knowledge, organization skills and competencies. Make sure you put effort to your schoolwork!
5. Extra knowledge – always show off with your additional knowledge. Who knows, maybe your future boss is also a battleships fan. ;)
6. Building Licence – if you don’t have it – get it! This is crucial for good companies, it gives them extra confirmation of your knowledge and skills. 
7. CV – make it better:

• Keep the principle of reverse chronology in listing dates and events – start from what happened last;
• PDF – always send CV in PDF form. Being honest, I don’t even look at CV’s that are sent in .doc format;
• Picture – it is nice to see you, but it is not necessary. However, for an HR person it is easier to remember your CV, if it is associated with a face;
• Building licence – if you have it, make sure you put the number of your BL or attach it to the CV;
• Keep it simple, clean and organized;
• Write about your additional work in organizations and/or associations. No matter if you are an athlete or not, a membership in any group is important, it shows skills such as teamwork and time management.

Hope you find these tips useful. Do not hesitate to comment or ask questions – maybe, you have your own advices and remarks about the topic. And remember that the positive attitude is the most important component of successful job search, so stay in high spirits no matter what.