When searching for a new job, it can be easy to get lost in the latest and greatest job search tips and tricks. But the fact is that the basics can be applied to the modern job search. And they are what will get you past the first round of an application. Here’s how the basics of a strong application strategy make sense for your 2022 job search.
Tip #1. Make Yourself the Obvious Choice
When a hiring manager reviews hundreds of resumes, you can be sure they are quick to throw out any who don’t fit the bill right from the start. It might be evident to you that you would be capable of meeting the needs of a role, but that doesn’t matter in the end. You need to convince the manager (or, more likely, the applicant tracking system) that you are the obvious choice for the role on the other side of your resume. This is based on keywords that you will find written into the job description that you are hiring for. Those keywords are also what recruiters or recruiting software programs are scanning for. If you are not clearly laying out the skills and experience required of a qualified applicant, you might as well be throwing your resume in the bin yourself. Make sure you study the job description and any available information on the position, then write your resume specifically to fit that job.
Tip #2. Think Outside of the Box (the computer box that is)
When applying for new roles, of course, you’ll want to spend a good deal of time filling out online applications during your job search. These online databases are a powerful tool for employers to find and weed out the qualified candidates for their open positions. But to really make a personal impression, don’t limit yourself to just online applications. To do so is doing yourself quite a disservice. If you really want to get your foot in the door, you need to get out and do it in person. Schedule informational interviews with would-be peers. Approach an internal recruiter and learn a thing or two. Find out who the people you need to connect with would be, then get out there and do some networking.
Tip #3. Every Job Opportunity Requires a Fresh Perspective
Similar to Tip #1 above, Tip #3 is all about being flexible. You need to continuously update your resume (and your LinkedIn profile) to stay relevant to each job you are applying to. While there are ways to make each a good general recommendation for the variety of jobs you are interested in, it’s much more powerful to make them a custom fit for those jobs that you really think will be the next best step in your career path.
Tip #4. Don’t Be Boring
Boring people don’t get hired. They get overlooked. Try to find what it is that differentiates you as a person, and incorporate that into your professional branding. The things that make you most memorable are the things that will make you the most hirable.
Tip #5. Your Social Media Profile Matters
Whatever you may think about social and professional networking online, the fact is that recruiters (and even managers) will be looking you up and developing an opinion of you based on your profile, whether you like it or not. With that in mind, make sure they see what you want them to see and that you are presenting yourself in your best, professional light.
Tip #6. Thank You Matters Too
There are few things more powerful than a handwritten and thoughtful thank you note. By putting in that little extra effort, you show that you are committed to the role in ways that others probably are not. Make the thank you and your follow-up just as impressive as your application, and you’ll be sure to shine. Even if you think such courtesies feel outdated, it’s the thoughtfulness that counts.
Get Your Career On Track
For more help getting your career strategy on track this coming year, connect with the team at Williams today.
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