Top 10 Effective Job Hunting Strategies for Virginia Beach Tech Professionals

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: August 23rd 2024

Tech professionals in Virginia Beach attending a job fair and networking event.

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Tech professionals in Virginia Beach can elevate their job search by exploring Dominion Enterprises' career opportunities, tailoring resumes, and leveraging LinkedIn for networking. Engage with Virginia Tech alumni and participate in local tech meetups to boost connections. Utilize job boards like Indeed and Glassdoor, target the Norfolk Naval Shipyard for engineering roles, and consider internships at Ferguson Enterprises. Engage staffing agencies, attend career fairs like the Virginia Beach Job Fair, and expand skills with courses from ECPI University to stand out in the competitive tech industry.

Tech pros in Virginia Beach - if you're hunting for your next big move, don't sleep on Dominion Enterprises.

This marketing powerhouse has been in the game since 1991 and rocks a squad of over 1,000 employees across locations. To scope out open roles:

  1. Explore Dominion's career page: Hit up their Careers page and peep the "View Job Openings" button.
  2. Filter your job search: Filter by category (like Engineering or Product) and location to find your perfect fit.
  3. Personalize your resume: Customize that resume for each role by flexing the skills and experience they're looking for in the job description.

If you're applying for a Software Engineer position, make sure to highlight your coding chops with languages and frameworks they use, like JavaScript, React, or AWS. An insider at Dominion Enterprises dropped this:

"Tailoring your resume for each application can seriously set you apart."

With the right strategy, you could be joining their innovative crew in no time! For more job hunt tips, check out Nucamp's guide to landing that first remote tech gig.

Table of Contents

  • Utilizing LinkedIn for Networking
  • Virginia Tech Alumni Connections
  • Participating in Tech Meetups and Hackathons
  • Job Boards like Indeed and Glassdoor
  • Targeting Norfolk Naval Shipyard for Engineering Roles
  • Engaging with Staffing Agencies in Virginia Beach
  • Pursuing Internships with Ferguson Enterprises
  • Attending Career Fairs like the Virginia Beach Job Fair
  • Expanding Skills with Courses from ECPI University
  • Frequently Asked Questions

Check out next:

  • Chart an exciting tech career path in Virginia Beach with the right guidance and resources.

Utilizing LinkedIn for Networking

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In this wild 2024 career jungle, LinkedIn is straight-up the hottest spot for job hunters and career climbers. We're talking 87% of recruiters using LinkedIn to scope out candidates.

Having a killer profile on this platform is an absolute must if you wanna get noticed by those hiring peeps in Virginia Beach.

First things first, your profile needs to be on point.

Craft a headline that grabs attention and shows off your skills. Then, let your summary shine by highlighting major achievements and career goals. The pros at Teal HQ say "An attention-grabbing headline and compelling summary can make your profile stand out." Once you're looking fresh, it's time to network like a boss.

"Active participation on LinkedIn is essential for visibility, especially in competitive markets like tech." — LinkedIn expert Andrew McCaskill

  • Connect with influencers and companies: Joining local tech groups and engaging in discussions helps you stay updated on openings and trends.

Don't sleep on LinkedIn's search game either.

Use it to find and connect with recruiters specializing in Virginia Beach's tech scene. Shoot them a personalized message expressing your interest and asking about opportunities.

Share relevant content to showcase your skills and ask for insider info on companies you're eyeing. According to the Future of Recruiting report, networking and showcasing relevant skills are key for landing quality gigs in 2024.

If you want to level up your career in Virginia Beach's tech world, you gotta bring your A-game to LinkedIn.

Build that network, share that knowledge, and get ready to slay your next opportunity!

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

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Virginia Tech Alumni Connections

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Tapping into the Virginia Tech alumni network can be a real game-changer for us techies hunting jobs in Virginia Beach. With over 240,000 alumni worldwide, Virginia Tech's got a massive network of pros across all kinds of industries, including a strong presence in our local tech scene.

Attending Virginia Tech alumni events is a prime way to make connections and uncover job leads.

Check out these upcoming events:

  • Networking Opportunities: Virginia Tech Alumni Association Hampton Roads Chapter Summer Networking Mixer (August 18, 2024)
  • Expert Panel Discussions: Virginia Tech Alumni in Technology Panel Discussion (September 22, 2024)
  • Community Engagement: Virginia Tech Hokies in Hampton Roads Annual Gala (November 9, 2024)

Like Harvey Mackay said,

"Dig your well before you're thirsty."

Reaching out to Virginia Tech alumni proactively can lead to some job opportunities.

Here are some solid strategies to consider:

  1. Leverage LinkedIn: Join the official Virginia Tech Alumni group and connect with alumni in your desired field or companies.
  2. Attend Industry Events: Virginia Tech alumni often gather at local tech meetups and conferences. Mingle and exchange contacts.
  3. Request Informational Interviews: Reach out to alumni working at your target companies for insights and potential introductions.

Remember, the shared Virginia Tech connection can open doors, but it's crucial to approach networking with authenticity, gratitude, and a willingness to give back to the community that has nurtured your professional journey.

Participating in Tech Meetups and Hackathons

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If you're serious about snagging your dream job, you gotta get your butt out there and immerse yourself in the local meetup and hackathon scene. These events are a total goldmine for making connections and showing off your skills to potential employers.

Hackathons, in particular, are like a coding Olympics where you can flex your problem-solving muscles and catch the eye of companies on the hunt for fresh talent.

Studies show that a whopping 65% of hackathon participants scored job interviews or offers after participating.

A solid 72% of people credit meetup groups for giving their careers a serious boost, with nearly 60% landing new gigs through these events. Talk about a win-win situation!

To stay in the loop about upcoming meetups and hackathons in our area, you'll want to keep an eye on platforms like Meetup.com, Eventbrite (search for "tech," "coding," or "hackathon" in Virginia Beach), and local Facebook groups like "VBTech" and "Virginia Beach Tech Community." These are your go-to sources for finding the hottest events and getting your networking game on point.

Consistently showing your face at these gatherings can work wonders for your job prospects.

Just look at the numbers – tech meetups have led to job opportunities for 32% of attendees and networking connections for a whopping 74%. And when it comes to hackathons? A mind-blowing 65% scored job interviews or offers, while 81% expanded their professional network.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

*By checking "I Agree", you are opting-in to receive information, including text messages from Nucamp. You also agree to the following Terms of use, SMS Terms of use & Privacy Policy. Reply STOP to stop receiving text messages.

Job Boards like Indeed and Glassdoor

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In the competitive Virginia Beach tech landscape, leveraging popular job boards like Indeed and Glassdoor can be a game-changer for ambitious professionals. With a wealth of opportunities listed across these platforms, adopting an efficient strategy is crucial.

Start by setting up personalized job alerts on both Indeed and Glassdoor tailored to your desired roles, skills, and location preferences. This way, you'll receive real-time notifications as soon as relevant openings emerge, giving you a head start over other applicants.

Beyond job listings, these sites offer invaluable insights into company cultures and compensation through employee reviews and salary data.

On Glassdoor, for instance, 74% of reviews for Dominion Enterprises in Virginia Beach are positive, with employees commending the collaborative environment and growth opportunities.

The average software engineer salary at the company is reported to be $92,000 annually, according to Glassdoor's proprietary data.

To make the most of these platforms, consider these expert tips:

  1. Optimize your profiles with relevant keywords to improve visibility in search results.
  2. Leverage the advanced search filters to narrow down listings based on criteria like job type, experience level, and commute preferences.
  3. Set up email alerts not only for job openings but also for company reviews and salary reports, staying informed about industry trends.
  4. Contribute your own anonymous reviews and insights, positioning yourself as an engaged professional in the community.

With diligence and strategic use of these powerful job boards, you can unlock a wealth of opportunities and insider knowledge, propelling your tech career in Virginia Beach to new heights.

Targeting Norfolk Naval Shipyard for Engineering Roles

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Check this out! The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is an absolute powerhouse when it comes to engineering gigs.

This place has been cranking out top-notch naval vessels since way back in 1767, so they know their stuff. Right now, they're on a hiring spree for all kinds of engineering roles, and we're talking some seriously cool jobs.

They need certified Naval Architecture Engineers to design and plan out complex projects for ships and subs.

Or how about being a Nuclear Engineer and working on those sick nuclear propulsion systems? That's some next-level tech right there.

They're also hiring Electrical Engineers to handle the power systems, Mechanical Engineers for designing mechanical components, and Computer Engineers to integrate cutting-edge computer systems into these vessels.

It's like a playground for tech geeks, but with way cooler toys.

Now, landing one of these gigs isn't a walk in the park. You gotta play by Uncle Sam's rules and follow the federal job application process.

Start by creating a profile on USAJOBS – that's the official job board for government positions. Craft a stellar resume that showcases your skills and experience, and be ready to tackle assessments and interviews.

But trust me, it'll be worth it.

Imagine being part of the team that keeps the U.S. Navy's fleet in top shape. You'll be working on some of the most advanced maritime technology out there, and contributing to the nation's defense in a major way.

So, what are you waiting for? Start polishing up that resume and get ready to join the engineering dream team at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard!

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

*By checking "I Agree", you are opting-in to receive information, including text messages from Nucamp. You also agree to the following Terms of use, SMS Terms of use & Privacy Policy. Reply STOP to stop receiving text messages.

Engaging with Staffing Agencies in Virginia Beach

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If you're trying to make that next big move in the Virginia Beach tech scene, staffing agencies should totally be on your radar. These places are like matchmakers for job seekers and companies, and a whopping 87% of firms around here use them to find tech talent, according to the American Staffing Association.

A few names that are killing it right now are IT Resources Corp, Insight Global, and DAVRON.

These agencies have serious street cred when it comes to connecting techies with opportunities. They understand the local scene inside and out, and have connections with major players in the game.

Just handing over your resume won't cut it.

You gotta make it pop and show off those transferable tech skills. Richard Thompson from Randstad Technologies says it's all about showcasing your ability to adapt and keep learning.

When it's interview time, be ready to talk tech with confidence, give examples of how you've tackled challenges, and prove you'd fit right in with the company's culture.

Remember, these agencies want you to succeed because it makes them look good too. So bring your A-game, and who knows, you might just land your dream tech gig through one of these staffing legends.

Pursuing Internships with Ferguson Enterprises

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For all the tech-savvy dudes and dudettes out there in Virginia Beach, scoring an internship at Ferguson Enterprises is an absolute game-changer. These guys are the real deal, offering you the chance to get your hands dirty with cutting-edge tech like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

Their 2024 program was no joke – they had over 3,000 applications for just 120 spots, so you know the competition is fierce.

To stand out from the pack, here's the 411 straight from the experts:

  • Tailor your resume like a boss, highlighting projects and skills that align with Ferguson's tech domains.
  • Show them you're hungry to learn with a killer cover letter.
  • Flex those coding skills on GitHub and let your work do the talking.
  • Sharpen those problem-solving abilities by crushing it at hackathons or coding challenges.

A whopping 72% of Ferguson's 2022 interns scored full-time job offers.

Talk about a win-win situation!

Long-term, a Ferguson internship sets you up for success with:

  1. Accelerated career growth through hands-on training.
  2. A stacked professional network within Ferguson's tech ecosystem.
  3. A major competitive edge with those industry skills and Ferguson experience on your resume.

To make it happen, keep an eye on Ferguson's careers site and get your application in during the January-March window for Summer 2025 internships.

Attending Career Fairs like the Virginia Beach Job Fair

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Landing that dream job in Virginia Beach is all about getting face time with the right people, and career fairs are where it's at. Mark your calendar for August 26th, because the Virginia Beach Job Fair is gonna be great! This virtual shindig is your chance to connect with some of the hottest companies in town, all from the comfort of your couch.

Tip: Proper preparation is crucial for success at job fairs.

But don't just show up unprepared.

Do your homework and research the companies that'll be there. Check out sites like JobFairX to see who's hiring and what they're looking for.

Craft that elevator pitch and make sure your resume is on point. Oh, and dress to impress, even if it's just from the waist up!

  1. Research the companies attending the job fair. Identify the key players you want to meet.
  2. Prepare an elevator pitch and update your resume. Tailor your materials for the event.
  3. Dress professionally, even for virtual meetings. First impressions count.
  4. Engage recruiters with insightful questions about the company. Show genuine interest.
  5. Follow-up with a personalized email. Reinforce your enthusiasm for the role discussed.

Once you're in the virtual room, werk it! Engage those recruiters with some killer questions about company culture, growth opportunities, and the kind of projects you'd be working on.

And don't forget to snag their deets for that all-important follow-up. Companies love a persistent candidate, so hit 'em up with a personalized email within a day or two, referencing your convo and letting 'em know you're still hyped about the role.

If you're really trying to level up your job hunt game, keep an eye out for events like the Hire Vets Now Networking and Hiring Fair on July 11th.

These niche fairs are a goldmine for making connections and learning about cool opportunities you might've missed otherwise.

Expanding Skills with Courses from ECPI University

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In this fast-paced world of tech, staying on top of your game is a must. That's where ECPI University's College of Technology comes in clutch, offering sick courses to level up your skills.

A recent study showed that 72% of tech pros say continuous learning is key to career growth.

Some of the hottest tech courses at ECPI in 2024 include:

  • Cybersecurity Fundamentals and Ethical Hacking: Mastering these areas is pivotal for boosting your defense against cyber threats.
  • Full Stack Web Development with React and Node.js: Building comprehensive web applications reinforces your development prowess.
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Bootcamp: Leveraging AI and ML tools keeps you ahead in data-driven solutions.
  • Cloud Computing with Amazon Web Services (AWS): Understanding AWS enhances your ability to manage scalable and secure cloud solutions.

By expanding your skillset with these courses, you're not just boosting your marketability, but showing potential employers you're a real asset.

According to Ivy Exec, 91% of hiring managers are all about candidates with diverse tech skills and certs.

As Dr. Joseph Jackson, Dean of Computer and Information Science at ECPI, puts it,

"Continuous learning is crucial in today's rapidly evolving tech world. Our courses give students hands-on experience and industry-recognized certs, seriously upping their job game."

Highlighting those extra skills and certs on your applications can make a huge difference too.

Glassdoor found that apps showcasing relevant tech skills get 34% more responses from employers. By showing you're committed to continuous learning and have a diverse skillset, you'll stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of landing that dream tech gig in Virginia Beach.

Check out Nucamp's strategies for landing your first remote tech job - it's a must-read!

Frequently Asked Questions

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How can I tailor my resume for tech job applications in Virginia Beach?

To tailor your resume for tech job applications in Virginia Beach, customize it for each role by highlighting relevant skills and experience found in the job description. Specifically, emphasize your proficiency in languages and frameworks like JavaScript, React, or AWS if applying for a Software Engineer position.

What role does LinkedIn play in job hunting for tech professionals in Virginia Beach?

LinkedIn is essential for job hunting, offering a platform for networking and visibility. Tech professionals should optimize their profiles by crafting engaging headlines and summaries, connect with influencers and companies, and actively participate in discussions to stay informed about job openings and trends.

How can Virginia Tech Alumni connections benefit tech job hunters?

Virginia Tech Alumni connections provide a vast network of professionals across various industries. Engaging with alumni through LinkedIn, attending industry events, and requesting informational interviews can open doors to job opportunities, leveraging shared experiences for networking.

What are some benefits of participating in tech meetups and hackathons in Virginia Beach?

Participating in tech meetups and hackathons can significantly boost your career. These events offer the chance to network, showcase skills, and potentially secure job opportunities. Consistent participation leads to building valuable connections and increases visibility to potential employers.

How do job boards like Indeed and Glassdoor help Virginia Beach tech professionals?

Job boards like Indeed and Glassdoor provide real-time job alerts and insights into company cultures and salaries. By using advanced search filters and setting up alerts, tech professionals can efficiently find and apply for relevant job openings, gaining a competitive edge in the market.

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Chevas Balloun

Director of Marketing & Brand

Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.