Looking for a job can be tough, especially in a crowded candidate market where everyone seems to be vying for the same roles.
As an active job seeker, you need to stand out from the competition and get noticed by recruiters and hiring managers. But how do you do that - how will you be seen as the BEST option? In this post, I'll provide you with 5 top tips to set yourself apart in the job market and put you on the way to landing your dream position...So, let's dive in:
Highlight your achievements:
Don't just list your responsibilities as a copy and paste of your job specification, but also include examples of how you've made a positive difference in your roles. This could be in the form of performance metrics or success stories, e.g., as a Service Desk professional, you could highlight ticket volumes, your response times, and your resolution rate. Alternatively, if you're a Sales professional, what targets have you had, and how did you perform against them? If you've smashed your monthly, quarterly, and annual goals - by what percentage did you exceed them? You should also reference how your performance compares to your peers to demonstrate that you're a high performer. Context is important.
'Build your brand' and use LinkedIn to your advantage:
For anyone seeking work, the social channel of choice has got to be LinkedIn! With 1 BILLION+ users and 67 MILLION+ companies using the site, it's the best platform to showcase your skills, network with professionals, and even apply for new jobs. According to a 2018 report by Career Builder, 70% of businesses use social media to screen candidates during their hiring process, so you have to prioritise keeping your profile up-to-date and tip-top. You should also consider posting some content or contributing to conversations in your network. BONUS TIP: Don't overthink it! If you're talking about something with your clients/colleagues/target customers etc, share this as a LinkedIn post, and hey presto...you're a thought leader!
Tailor your CV to each application:
Recruiters and hiring managers receive A LOT of applications, so make sure yours stands out by showing how your skills and experience match the requirements of the role. Many Talent Acquisition teams also use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter through candidate CVs which will spell the end of your application if your profile isn't aligned with the job description. It's important to include as many specific keywords that the ATS will recognise. You might also want to avoid using images and tables as ATS will rarely be able to read them, and this information will be lost.
Upskill yourself:
With technology advancing at an unprecedented pace, industries are constantly evolving, and employers are looking for individuals who can quickly adapt and learn new skills. Demonstrating commitment to your career by investing in yourself and continuously learning is essential. One way to achieve this is by taking courses or certifications to improve your skills and knowledge - with many available online and free. Not only will this make you a more valuable asset to your employer, but it will also enhance your career prospects and future earning potential. Upskilling also provides a sense of personal satisfaction and fulfilment, allowing you to take ownership of your professional development and career growth.
Make friends with recruiters 👋
Networking with recruiters who focus on supplying clients in your area of expertise is essential to improving your employment prospects and discovering new opportunities. Building relationships with recruiters can help you access exclusive job openings, gain insight into hiring trends, and receive personalised guidance on your search. Some will even help you develop your interview skills, provide in-depth advice particular to their clients, and give you first-hand feedback regarding your CV. I am slightly biased...but here goes...RECRUITERS HAVE GOT YOUR BACK! They are an invaluable resource, and investing time and effort into building relationships will often pay off.
By committing to these proactive steps you'll significantly increase your chances of standing out...and who knows...the next Recruiter or Hiring Manager may think you're the ROCKSTAR they're looking for!
I'd love to hear how these tips help in the comments below, or if you have any other useful points to share 👇👇👇 Thank you for reading and GOOD LUCK with your job search!
