Originally posted by calbears84
I have sent out at least 50 resumes and have received NO interviews.
It seems that you are using the right resources for employment in your area. Have you considered doing a visiting fellowship with the CDC or NIH? Check out their websites and you can find lots of info for training opportunities.
I had a similar problem with getting no interviews after I finished my master's degree. I thought an advanced degree would hold a little more weight... As it turns out, after no interview invites for a couple of months, I worked on revising my resume'. A resume' writer helped me polish my structure and syntax. She also helped to revise my cover letter. You may have a service at your alma mater that can help you with this. There are also many pro's out there in the phone book.
Remember that your potential employer will spend the most time reading the cover letter; it should make them so interested in your enthusiasm about the job that they'll want to carefully read over your resume' to see how you can contribute to their lab. Hint: do a little background research on the docs you would be working for. In your letter drop subtle hints on your interest in their line of work (cardiology, endocrinology, diabetes, etc...).
Gentle reminders by email prove very effective in letting your app stand out... "Dr. X, I am writing to inquire whether you received my CV for the advertised position, etc..." This demonstrates your enthusiasm and the employer is forced to rummage through the pile to see if yours is there.
Always use high quality paper. I go to Kinko's and use their E1 100% cotton. I know this seems trivial but many interviewers complimented how "polished" everything looked.
These strategies worked for me; I typically got about 3-4 interviews for every 10 CV's/cover letters I sent out.
