When you are in a job search, it is easy to focus so much on getting the job (and your need for it) that you end up neglecting simple but highly important tips. Do not overlook the following – they can be key to obtaining the job of your dreams.
1. Make Yourself an Obvious Fit for a Position
Make sure your resume clearly matches the job description. Otherwise, even if you are extremely qualified, you can be overlooked. Nearly all resumes today are screened by an application tracking system (ATS). ATS are designed to match keywords from the job posting with incoming resumes. So if the posting says “supply chain proficiency,” your resume needs to say this as well. Otherwise, it will not be a match, even if you say “worked in supply chain manufacturing for five years.”
Go over the job posting and highlight the keywords. Then, revise your resume to make sure you are matching the wording. Note that this is not an exercise is saying you have qualifications you don’t. It is all about talking about the qualifications you have, using the right language for the posting.
2. Do not Limit Yourself to Online Applications
Yes, we know that many applications in today’s world are online. Never skip the online process, because it’s key to many jobs.
On the other hand, do not limit yourself only to online applications. Personal networking is one of the best ways to find a job. If you know of anyone in a company you would like to work for, set up a lunch or coffee get-together with them. Ask them the best ways of breaking into the company.
Another tried-and-true way of networking is an informational interview. Contact someone who works at the company and ask them some questions. Limit it to fifteen minutes (and offer to buy them coffee, too). Ask how they found a place in the industry or company. Ask what skills are needed. Use their advice to get a job moving forward.
3. Be Sure You’re on LinkedIn
Approximately 90 percent of human resources people, both in companies and in staffing agencies, use LinkedIn. If a company gets your resume or application, they are very likely going to look for you on LinkedIn.
Therefore, you must be on LinkedIn. In general, LinkedIn follows your resume, but that doesn’t mean companies that have your resume do not need it. First, to recruiters, not being on LinkedIn is like not being on the planet – you are invisible. Second, LinkedIn can be a great way to show elements that resumes don’t show, such as hobbies and community activities. For some employers, these could be key selling points because they indicate a fit with their company or current employees.
4. Always Send Thank-You Notes
It is a very good practice to send a thank-you note (by email is fine) after an interview thanking the interviewer for their time. Say, “It was a pleasure learning about Company X’s plans to Y” (whatever was discussed). If you can, state your top two qualifications again, briefly.
Why? Because people who send thank-you notes stick in the interviewers’ minds. It also comes across that you know proper behavior in an interview, and are likely to know proper behavior about showing up at work and doing a good job. It can get you the job over competitors who don’t send thank-you notes.
Work for a Company That Appreciates You
Are you looking to work for a company that will appreciate you? If you are, Nesco Resource can help you find employment with such a company.
Contact us today to speak to a staffing professional about our available jobs.
