When your job search appears to be stuck and you are not getting the contacts from employers you were expecting, it is even more significant than usual to make certain that you stand out from the job searching crowd. You’ll require showing the hiring manager—at a glance—that you are compelling applicants who definitely should be opted for an interview.
How to Be Compelling Applicants?
What can you do to get noticed?
It is not as tough as you might think. Your application materials, have to be ideal, of course, and you will require using your connections to help get an “in” at the company. You’ll also need to actively market your candidacy and yourself, rather than waiting for a new job to find you.
Write a Targeted Resume
I know this is tougher than just having one resume that you use to apply for every job. Although, it works. Taking the time to edit or rewrite your resume so it matches the qualifications for the job you are applying for will show the hiring manager that you have the credentials for the job and should be considered for an interview.
Write a Targeted Cover Letter
Write a cover letter that indicates, at a glance, why you are a powerful match for the job. Do not repeat your resume, rather link (list or use bullets) your relevant skills to the skills the employer is seeking. Mention your professional qualifications that match the hiring requirements.
You merely have seconds to catch the hiring manager’s attention, so use them wisely.
Build Your Professional Brand
Sometimes, recruiters Google candidates even before they schedule an interview. You will want to make sure that everything they find when they search and everything related to you on the professional and networking sites (like LinkedIn and Facebook) is information that is presentable to the public.
Also, be definite to edit your profile on LinkedIn so your connections know you’re available for career and/or job opportunities.
Use Your Connections
Do you’ve connections at the company you merely sent your resume to? If so, use them. They may be capable to give your resume a boost and help you get an interview. You can also use your connections to find out more about the company. I know one job seeker, for instance, who was able to connect with a worker at the company he was interviewing and get the inside scoop on the job and the company – before he set foot in the door.
Be Proactive
Remember that old saying “He who hesitates is lost” – it’s true. Employers do not wait forever for compelling applicants to submit their resume (I know more than a few people who have waited too long to apply and lost out on what could have been a great job), so when you seek a job listing that’s a good match, apply immediately. Set up job search agents on the job search engines and/or job banks so you get new positions via email as soon as they are posted online. Again, don’t wait to apply.
Unstick Your Job Search
If your job search appears to be stuck, try some new initiatives to get it initiated, so you can get back on track to find a new job, sooner rather than later.
Practice Makes Perfect
Practice before you go for an interview. Review typical interview questions and research the company so you are well-prepared to interview. Have interview clothes ready (dry cleaned, shoes polished, etc.) so you’re ready to interview professionally at a moment’s notice. That way, your first impression will be positive and that’s the impression you want to make on everyone you meet when you’re job searching.
Send a Thank You Note
Do not forget to follow up with a thank you note reiterating your interest in the job. Most compelling applicants don’t bother, but those that do are more likely to get hired.