Searching for a job (C++ programmer): what can you recommend?

Question

What is the effective way of searching for a job for C++ programmer?

Well. it's not too C++ question, but it is really important, I think.

I'm trying to find a job in Europe and I use XING and Monster sites with their opportunities.

I filled CV and put it there, I constantly skim through offers, but it seems to be just wrong approach: nothing works.

I have more than 10 years of experience in C++ and different technologies, so it seems that my CV is not the main problem (I followed many rules about CV writing).

So again, the question is: what is the effective way of searching for a job?

(P.S. For example, most of my friends received offers for their current job from some people they know or their friends. So nobody used any search engines.)

Answer 1

I would recommend adding your profile to LinkedIn, then look at the companies your direct and indirect contacts are working at. And send your resume, even if they don't seem to be looking for people, lots of companies do a very bad job at advertising their recruitment needs.

Answer 2

I would never use Monster or similar. In the UK there are many development-specific recruiters who will take your CV, phone you for a chat to go over it, and then start informing you of relevant jobs in your area. I think the massive sites like Monster are just too full of unskilled people; look for a specialist.

Answer 3

Try looking on Jobserve. For the UK at least this would be the most widely used job-search site.

Answer 4

In the netherlands both nationale vacaturebank and intermediair will produce a lot of results.

You can also use google to find job offers that are on company websites but not on the job sites.

And beware with recruiting agencies. Some of them are great, but most of them want to know everything about you and never see you again.

Good luck finding the job!

How did i found my jobs:

1. the yellow pages
2. a recruiting agency
3. a job find site
4. An internet search
5. A friend
6. A job find site and a recruiting agency (and i'm still here)

Answer 5

Recruitment sites will list available jobs for you to enquire about, rather than waiting for people to come to you.

Answer 6

From my point of view:

a. Friends and people you know, as you have said.

b. Search for companys you like to work with. Send them your CV and a letter explaining why you like their company and what can you do for them. Motivation is as important as skill set.

As a bonus, I think searching for a C++ job could be closing some doors to you. There are companies that switches from languages (or technologies) every now and then. They could be waiting for people that can do the same.

Answer 7

If you want a job in the Netherlands and are interested in scientific programming, have an exact science degree (masters in CS, physics, something like that) and are strong on math, the best way is to send me your resume ;) roel dot vanhout at gmail dot com

You didn't mention where you are from - if you're in the US looking for a job in Europe, your strategy is going to be very different from already being in Europe.