Applying for a job is something most adults have done at some point in their lives. There are many popular tips most people are aware of. Some include using several job-search websites, networking more, and dedicating a lot of time to your job search, among many others. However, most candidates often overlook certain strategies that can help them stand out from the crowd. As a job seeker, it is very important to be different from your competition. In this article, we’ll discuss 4 secret tips most candidates miss when applying for jobs.
1. Curate Your Resume According To Your Job
According to Ladders Inc., the average initial screening time for a candidate’s resume clocks in at just 7.4 seconds. Resumes that succeeded in catching recruiters’ attention featured simple layouts, clear sections and heading titles, while also featuring bold titles and bulleted accomplishments.
Your resume is your first introduction to a potential employer. However, many candidates make the mistake of using a generic resume for every application. You have to curate your resume in a way that makes your potential employer believe that you’re the perfect fit for the job. You have to highlight the exact skills and experience they are looking for.
Why Curating Your Resume Is Important?
Relevance – A tailored resume ensures that your skills and experiences align with the specific requirements of the job. This captures the recruiter’s attention more than the others that use a generic format.
Keyword Optimisation – Tailoring your resume with industry-specific keywords can improve your chances of passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Many recruiters use this software to quickly sort out valid resumes for the job vacancy at hand. Using the right keyword will ensure that your resume passes through the ATS filter.
2. Researching The Company; Beyond Its Webpage and Wikipedia
Researching the company you want to work for is a smart strategy that will make you stand out in an interview. It shows the recruitment team that you’ve taken the time to know about them. Go beyond the company’s webpage and Wikipedia pages. Follow and interact with their social media pages. This will keep you up to date with what they are doing and if there are any vacancies available.
Having extra information about the company helps you curate your resume in a way that matches their values and prepares you with questions or comments for your interview.
Why Researching The Company Matters?
Give Informed Responses – Having in-depth knowledge about the company you’re applying for allows you to give relevant responses to questions during interviews.
Culture Fit – Researching deeply about the company gives you an idea of the company’s work culture. You can determine if you’ll be a good fit before applying. As an employee, there are few things worse than working somewhere you feel uncomfortable.
Ask Informed Questions – In most interviews, candidates are asked if they have any questions to ask. It is highly recommended that you ask questions. This shows how serious you are about the job. Knowing about the company will help you ask relevant questions no other candidate has asked.
3. Bringing Along Several Copies Of Your Resume To The Interview
While this might seem like a minor detail, bringing several copies of your resume to an interview is a gesture that speaks volumes about your professionalism and preparation. As a job applicant, it is always necessary to have a plan B in case you come across an obstacle. A recruiter may not have a copy of your resume at hand during the interview and you may demonstrate your proactiveness by providing them with a copy.
Why Bringing Along Several Copies Of Your Resume Matters?
Preparedness – Having extra copies of your resume with you shows that you are well-prepared for the interview, indicating a high level of professionalism.
Facilitates Discussion – Having extra copies of your resume at hand helps you to have a more organised interview session. All interviewers can have copies and follow your career while asking you questions. This allows you to have a more detailed discussion about your experiences and achievements.
Backup Plan – In case multiple interviewers don’t have copies of your resume, you can give them a copy each. This shows how serious you are.
4. Sending The Hiring Manager a Follow-up Email Expressing Further Interest Post-interview
One secret tip most candidates miss when applying for jobs is sending follow-up messages after their interviews. This differentiates you from your competition since it keeps you in the minds of the interviewer. If you don’t hear back from them after a while you can send an email reminding them about your application. Even if you get a negative reply, thank them for their time and offer to stay in touch in case other opportunities come up.
Why Following-up Is Important?
Showing Gratitude – It allows you to thank the interviewer for the opportunity, expressing gratitude for their time. This demonstrates how well-mannered you are.
Reiterating Interest – Sending a follow-up email reminds them of your interest in the position and the company. Everyone needs a reminder every once in a while.
Addressing Additional Points – If there were questions you couldn’t fully address during the interview, the follow-up email provides an opportunity to elaborate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, even though these secret tips might seem small, they can make a difference in your job application process. Curating a targeted resume, conducting in-depth company research, bringing multiple copies of your resume to interviews, and sending a follow-up email are strategies that can help you stand out in a competitive job market.
Works Cited
guide, step. “35+ Essential Job Search Tips for 2024 [By a Career Expert].” Novoresume, 27 December 2023, https://novoresume.com/career-blog/job-search-tips. Accessed 9 January 2024.
Indeed. “11 Types of Job-Hunting Strategies (With Tips).” Indeed, 7 August 2023, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/job-hunting. Accessed 9 January 2024.
We Work Remotely. “5 Simple Tips to Strengthen Your Remote Job Search.” We Work Remotely, https://weworkremotely.com/5-simple-yet-effective-tips-to-strengthen-your-remote-job-search. Accessed 9 January 2024.