Finding a job is still a high priority, but most challenging, venture this year even as we work on migrating out of the COVID era. One of the biggest struggles job searchers have is standing out among the competition. Hiring managers get upwards of 200 applications daily and any job seeker would want to be heard over the noise. We’re here to help improve your job search strategy so that you can land the next big opportunity you’re passionate about.
Add Emotion to Your Cover Letter
Your cover letter should be about why you want them, your resume should be why they want you. Yes, your cover letter should include details on why you’re a good fit, but why are they a good fit for you? Why them above anyone else? Put your passion and emotion into the cover letter. Show them how much you want to be a part of their team. Why is that important to you? Tell them! Emotions hit hard and they’ll set you apart from the facts and data of your resume, as well as other resumes and cover letters.
Build an Insider Connection
The best way to get your foot in the door is through networking. Build a connection with someone already working for the company, to get one step further than the competition. Give them a face and conversation with your name, so your name stands out when they’re flipping through resumes. Reach out to someone who works there, preferably someone involved in the hiring process, via a LinkedIn message and schedule a call to chat with them. Not only will you stand out, but you could make a friend at work before you even get hired.
Include a Pre-Interview Project with Your Application
Show them your value by doing the job before you even get the job. Blow them out of the water! Do a pre-interview project to present to them with your resume during the application process or bring with you during the interview. You could also send your portfolio, only including projects particular to that job description. Not many job seekers do this, and this will put you miles ahead of the competition.
Do Your Research – And Include it in Your Communication
Every job seeker and candidate should research the company they’re applying for; that’s just good sense. But you should be researching more than just their team, their values, and the job itself. Research the company’s pain points and consider what you will do in your first 90 days to help them. Never underestimate the power of showing up with a 30-, 60-, and 90-day plan. Telling them that you’ll solve their biggest problem(s) in your first quarter, and how, will immediately make you stand out above the rest.
Follow Up
Really. In an earlier podcast episode on The Hiring Process, From The Recruiter’s POV, we were surprised to learn that only one-third of applicants, and candidates further along in the interview process, follow up with the hiring manager. Do you want a simple, quick way to stand out? FOLLOW UP! You’re already ahead of two-thirds of the competition. Don’t miss out on an opportunity by not following up!
Good luck with getting the hiring manager’s attention! We know you’ll nail it. For more job search success tips, follow our blog and catch new episodes of our podcast.
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