There are many job openings out there and a shortage of workers. However, that doesn’t mean landing your dream job will be a breeze. You still need to put in the effort to get noticed by busy hiring managers, who only spend a few seconds reviewing each resume they receive. Where do you begin? Follow these tips:
Personalize your resume for every job opening.
Don’t send the same exact resume every time you apply. You need to review the details of the specific job posting and tailor your resume around that employer’s requirements. Also, do some research on the company, so you can best customize a winning resume and cover letter.
Use facts and figures.
When you’re putting together a cover letter and resume, make sure you bring your background to life with facts and figures. These include any numbers, statistics, percentages, time saved and other areas where you can quantify your background and expertise. This will not only make the case that you’re a strong contender for the job, but also help you stand out in the mind of the hiring manager.
Add personality to your cover letter.
Don’t copy and paste the same generic cover letter many other candidates will send in. Instead, take some time to infuse some personality into yours. Include an anecdote about your background, achievements, or why you want to work for the company. The more the hiring manager sees you as a unique professional, not just another cover letter, the better your chance of getting a call for an interview.
Do some extra credit work.
For instance, add samples of your work to your LinkedIn profile or talk about a specific idea you have for helping the company. This gives the hiring manager a taste for what you can do and the value you can add. At the same time, it will make you more memorable and more likely to get an interview.
Send in your resume on a Monday.
Some studies show that applying for a job on a Monday increases your chances of standing out. In fact, according to one study by Bright.com, 30% of candidates who applied on a Monday made it into the next round of the hiring process.
In addition to following the tips above, don’t forget about the basics, such as formatting your resume properly with a professional font and a readable point size. Also, make the resume as easy-to-read as possible for busy hiring managers who quickly scan them. You can do this by bolding the names of past employers and job titles and using bullet points to describe your tasks and accomplishments.
Need more help getting the attention of hiring managers?
Provisional Recruiting is here for you. As one of Spokane’s top employment agencies, we’re hard at work matching talented professionals with rewarding jobs – and we can help you too! Contact us today or search our jobs now.