Unemployment rates have hit historical levels. Never before has the competition become so fierce for career seekers. Employees no longer stay at the same company for their entire lives. Now we are able to move around and leverage our experience in various environments.
So it’s not just the unemployed that are looking for jobs, it’s those that are currently employed and looking for better opportunities as well.
There are ways to make yourself stand out from the sea of resumes that many companies are drowning in. You can become a remarkable candidate by following some simple steps.
- Have a good resume. Brevity of content and a simple layout are very important. Human resources professionals do not have the time to read pages of your employment history. Include your greatest accomplishments first. Communicate achievements and deliverables in short sentences and phrases. Personal objectives and goals sections are not necessary. Use crisp, easy language and avoid jargon.
- Be more specific in a cover letter. This is the arena in which you can expand on your specific capabilities. Be original in your statements and communicate clearly.
- Ask for a list of job requirements. You can explain how you can execute those within a cover letter or interview. Employers want to know that you understand the position.
- Do your research. Know the company’s background, latest news and important achievements.
- Have a good knowledge of the industry. Not only stay current on the specific company, but the industry as well. Make sure you know their competitors, and how the company stacks up against them.
- Follow all applicable instructions. If they ask for three references, give them three references. If they want a writing sample, provide it.
- Try to find someone in your network that works at said company or has a connection. It’s always nice to have a character reference and easier to have an “in” at a company.
- 8. Update your online reputation. If your social media channels have questionable material, make sure it is privatized. Spruce up your LinkedIn profile. Make sure all applicable areas are filled out and current.
- 9. Show them something that makes you stand out. Can you speak fluent Spanish? Did you chair the annual block party? Items like this may not seem important to you when seeking a job, but extracurriculars can show employers your character and true colors.
Morgan Hunter Corporate Search can help you to attain the right position. Give them a call today!