So you have your eye on a job that you feel is right for you. Whether it’s the salary, benefits, nature of work, or all of the above, you are determined to earn that offer letter.
Maneuvering the world of job searches and interviewing can be a bit daunting, especially when you consider you are at times competing with hundreds of other viable applicants for the gig.
How do you make yourself stand out from all the rest?
Here, we are covering must-know tips to earn the job of your dreams. Incorporate these pointers into your job search and watch as the interview requests and offers start pouring in.
1. Utilize Your Connections
Networking is integral to any professional path. Oftentimes, it really is about who you know. This is why it is important to build your network and stay in touch with people in high places. If you happen to know someone who works at a company you want to be a part of, reach out and ask if you can forward your resume.
Many times, an internal referral helps bring you to the top of the stack of applicants and earns you special consideration during the interview process. Other times, job applications ask you to name any individuals you know who work at the company. This is another instance where having connections works in your benefit.
2. Cast a Wide Net
If you don’t know anybody working in your field that can you can name or reach out to, fret not. The process of submitting a resume can sometimes take 2 minutes or 2 hours depending on company protocol. We suggest applying to as many jobs as possible – ideally, 5-10 a day. The reason is simple: the more jobs you apply to, the higher the probability of hearing back from a few.
Of course, you won’t hear back from anyone if you don’t seem like a strong applicant. This is where your resume comes in.
3. Spruce Up Your Resume
Your resume is a tangible representation of who you are on a professional level. It is the first impression to potential employers and it sits among a pile of others very similar to it. In other words, your resume is highly important.
Ensure your educational background is prominent. If you need inspiration to help motivate you, diploma makers could help. Other points to include on your resume:
- Most relevant experiences
- List of skills
- Short bio
- Education
- References
Your resume should only be one page and should have a unique touch that calls to your personality or interests. This will help you stand out!
Not sure where to start? Check out these resume tips and tricks to help guide your resume writing process.
4. Research the Company
Conducting a bit of research before applying to a company can save you some time if you decide the job posting is not as good a fit as it seems. Scan the company’s website and get a feel for what they can offer you as an employee.
If you are selected for an interview, the more you know about the company, the better. Employers like to see that you looked into their company because it shows interest and dedication. It also helps with answering certain questions. Take a look at the company’s social media for a more intimate, behind-the-scenes look into what the company culture is like.
Can you picture yourself working there?
5. Always Follow-Up
Whether you have submitted an application and are awaiting an invitation to interview, or you already interviewed and are awaiting the next steps, following up is integral to scoring your dream job.
Why?
Following up indicates that you are highly interested in the position – and you can even say such in the email. Many applicants fail to follow up, so this is one way to stand out above the others and earn those brownie points.
In addition, employers are sometimes very busy and need that extra nudge to get the ball rolling. It helps speed up the process and ultimately puts you at the surface of their candidate pool.
6. Use Social Media to Your Advantage
Social media is more than just a fun activity to plug into. It is a powerful tool in marketing and networking. Websites like LinkedIn put you on the map for recruiters. Optimize your profile with a clean headshot, enticing bio, and an extensive list of relevant experiences.
LinkedIn is a great way to build your network and stay in touch professionally. Tap into alumni groups and join other relevant groups. You can even change your settings so that you are open to job opportunities. This will make your profile a prime target for potential employers.
Be sure that your personal social media profiles are professional and clean as oftentimes employers will research you back!
