Whether you’re breaking into a new industry or seeking a fresh start, the right approach can make all the difference, which is especially important at the start of a new year when the jobs market is flooded with applicants.
To help you stand out, we’re pulling back the curtain on what recruiters really look for.
These 10 expert tips are designed to give you an edge and position yourself as the top talent companies are seeking.
1. Write a Proposal, Not a Job Description
Rather than treating your resume as a summary of past experience, craft it like a proposal highlighting the value and skills you bring. Tailor it to address specific challenges the potential employer faces and back up your claims with examples of relevant successes from prior roles. This demonstrates your understanding of the company’s needs and positions you as a problem solver.
2. Treat Your Resume Like a Website and Optimize Its SEO
Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for keywords matching job qualifications. Use company and role-specific keywords pulled from job descriptions and the organization’s website and place the most relevant keywords in the top one-third of your resume to maximize visibility.
3. Slow Down and Personalize Applications
Submitting your resume to as many openings as possible may seem productive, but quality trumps quantity. Research each industry and company, personalize your resume and cover letter for each application, and follow up with recruiters. This thoughtful approach helps you stand out from the crowd.
4. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
With less face-to-face interaction, your online presence is more important than ever. Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect relevant experience, and study profiles of industry leaders to gain inspiration. Use your profile as a polished portfolio for hiring managers. Consider joining LinkedIn groups and using the Alumni tool to grow your network.
5. Attend Virtual Networking Events
Many trade organizations, alumni groups, and professional associations host webinars and virtual meetups, and regular participation in these events can help expand your network and provide valuable insights for interviews.
6. Find Opportunities Before They Hit the Job Boards
Tap into your network to discover hidden opportunities. Think of all the connections you have to people working in targeted industries whether it be peers in academic circles, friends of family members, former coworkers, or any other individuals you have a personal connection with.
Reach out to each person to catch up and be sure to mention you are job searching. They may know of opportunities or have insight into industries that are hiring. Also, partnering with staffing and recruiting firms also can help unveil roles not yet posted.
7. Focus on the Company, Not Just the Job
While roles are important, consider the leadership, mission, and culture of a company to ensure it aligns with your goals and values, which can lead to better retention for both you and the organization.
You could ask questions like, “How does the company’s mission influence its daily operations?” or “What are some examples of how the company supports its employees?”
Research how your values and skills align with the organization’s goals and highlight ways you can contribute to the company’s success. This broader focus helps you stand out as a well-rounded candidate.
8. Look for Growth Industries
Be open to industries outside your immediate experience. Growth sectors often present new opportunities and paths for advancement. Flexibility can increase your chances of finding stable roles and building transferable skills. Also, research hiring trends in different industries to better position yourself as a strong candidate.
9. Be Willing to Pivot
Flexibility is key in today’s job market. This might mean taking a part-time or contract role, exploring a different career path, or relocating. These moves can provide valuable experience, develop transferable skills, and demonstrate resilience and adaptability to future employers.
10. Stay Encouraged and Track Your Progress
Job searching is challenging, so to avoid discouragement, track both big milestones and small wins. Use tools like spreadsheets or job-search tracking apps to log your progress and visualize the effort you’re putting in. Count phone calls made, networking events attended, applications submitted, and hours spent researching. Seeing your efforts laid out can boost morale and keep you motivated.
Let us help you on your journey to your next role. Visit our job board here to explore open opportunities.
