Hey folks, in my last post I talked about how weather forecasts should be trade actionable. Today, I want to discuss what I believe entry level meteorologists should be doing while searching for new job opportunities.
First, we can all agree it’s an extremely tough and highly competitive market out there for entry level meteorologists searching for new employment. Even for seasoned meteorologists, it’s no easy task. The market is flooded with meteorologists looking for work, and there are very few job openings. It’s a case of supply of demand. And the outlook doesn’t look any better. So what can new graduates in meteorology do today to not only help them stand out from the competition, but also keep their feet wet within meteorology?
My advice…start your own website/blog/weather consulting company. Let me tell you the reason why I think this is a good idea. First, it keeps your feet wet in the meteorology space. Second, it shows your employer you are passionate, entrepreneurial, and can put together and manage a product. Even if you have little success in your venture, I think it is something tangible to put on your resume.
Now, there are some caveats. Everyone’s financial situation is different. Most of you probably have bills, loans, and other expenses to pay. So, in my opinion, if you have to take a part time job outside of meteorology to help with that burden…go for it. Although I would not list your part time job (outside of meteorology) on your resume if you are applying to full time meteorology positions. List only what is relevant to the job you are applying to. And hopefully this part time job is only temporary and will help put a dent in some of your expenses.
Secondly, yes it does take money to start a consulting company but these days you can build a website, product with a very limited budget. Also, if you have a meteorologist friend or classmate that has programming experience that you can bring on as a partner (or consultant) in your company, then you’ve eliminated most of your expenses right there.
Now, let’s get back to the consulting company idea. If you know a couple of meteorology classmates from your school that are all in the same boat and looking for employment….I think ya’ll should get together and build something (while you continue to apply and make new contacts for new opportunities as they arise).
Before you start putting together a product, start analyzing your local market and evaluate how companies utilize weather forecasts for their operations. How do you evaluate them? Go to their store, talk to their manager. Or call. Most will probably give you a cold shoulder, others might talk to you depending on the day. But I think it’s better to go there in person…or perhaps make an appointment. Remember to speak to them about a) saving money or b) making money and c) free for them ( at least temporarily).
I would start with the “smaller fish” (farmers, retail stores, golf courses, car washes, construction companies, etc). I think your target should be companies in and around your local area that you can see face to face, at least for the short term.
I think you should offer your service for free for at least 30-60 days. And then a small monthly fee thereafter if they like it. Figure out if there is a niche market that you can take advantage of. Is there a problem that you can solve? Perhaps these companies are getting their weather from the internet for free? How can you make it better for them? Remember, make it trade actionable. Provide stellar customer service.
None of this is easy, folks. It’s difficult for even seasoned meteorologists to cold call, build new clients. Budgets are tight across the board. But I think if you can find a couple of clients to sign on…it will help make your case to future clients and will also be a good story to tell any future employers during the interview process. Most of you guys are young and hungry and very passionate about meteorology, so make it happen!! And remember, continue to apply and network while you do this. And even better, you get to add this experience
to your resume and stand out amongst the crowd.
Good luck! In the mean time, I’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have. (Photo credit: quite-rightly.blogspot.com)
