Today’s job market is competitive. Expect it to be even more so as we continue to see massive layoffs in the oil sector, plus a Canadian dollar that continues to weaken. So, as a job seeker how can you improve your chances of getting your resumes seen, let alone reviewed by a recruiter?
Below are some tips that you no doubt have already heard but nonetheless continue to be valuable even more so in today’s job market.
Below are some tips that you no doubt have already heard but nonetheless continue to be valuable even more so in today’s job market.
- Target your resume & cover letter: as tempting as it may be to use the same resume and cover letter for each job application – don’t, especially if you are applying to different types of roles. For example, if you are applying for a Sales role but your cover letter says you are seeking a career in Accounting, expect your resume to go to the reject pile. Be specific. The recruiter should know just by browsing through your resume what types of role you are seeking. Ensure that your cover letter is addressed to the hiring manager or recruiter. That might require you doing a bit of research but it will be worth the effort. Remember to include the key words/skills listed in the job posting.
- Do some research on the company: recruiters can tell when a candidate has done their homework; which means they want the job. Review the company profile, vision, mission statement, values and other notable accomplishments. Find a way to tie this back into your cover letter.
- What’s in it for them? When you are applying for a job, it is important to show what the company will gain by hiring you. Many job applicants miss that part. Instead most are focused on why they want the job. You can demonstrate your value by showcasing your successes in current or past roles and applying it to the role you are applying for.
- Spell check: spelling errors are a no no and will only get your resume sent to the reject pile. Your best bet is to use spell check or have someone review before you submit.
- Creativity: can be your best friend; sometimes. If everyone is doing the same thing, very few are standing out. It’s 2015 – a little creativity does not hurt. That being said, if the job posting asked for applications to be submitted in a certain format, please follow their guidelines.
- Avoid personal information: no need to include personal data such as your date of birth, marital status, gender, religion etc. The hiring manager/recruiter does not need to know this.
- Keep it brief: recruiters are busy. Your resume should not exceed 2 pages. There should be no need to include every single summer job that you had from high school. However, be prepared to explain any gaps in your resume.
- Follow-up: while recruiters dislike phone calls, if you have the contact information of the hiring manager or recruiter, follow-up to let them know of your interest in the role. Majority of applicants don’t, so this may give you an edge.
- Send as many as you can: remember the more applications you submit, the greater your chances of success. That being quality is still important.