Getting ready to apply for a new job? It might be really tempting to start firing off applications to anyone and everyone hiring, but there are a few things you should consider before submitting your application.
Taking the time to get a few things before applying for jobs could help you stand out from the competition and land the job of your dreams.
Do Some Soul Searching
Before you start applying for a new career, think about what is important to you. Pick two to three attributes that are essential. You could be hunting for a business with a strong culture, flexible work hours or opportunities to move up the ladder. Take these things into consideration when investigating potential jobs. You should also think about your “core genius.” This is the collection of skills, passions, experiences, education, talents, and abilities you possess. What makes you unique and what do you bring to the table that no one else can?
Update Your Resume
Hiring managers have to sift through dozens if not hundreds of resumes every day, so think about how you can make a lasting impression. Don’t send in a black and white list of everything you’ve ever done and every job you’ve ever held, including your middle school babysitting days. You’ll get put in a stack with everybody else. Keep it short and sweet but also be creative! You don’t have to be a graphic designer to layout something that will catch a hiring manager's’ eye. Need some inspiration? Google it, but please don’t copy or purchase a template; they will know.
Really think about both hard and soft skills related to the job you are applying for. It might seem like a no-brainer, but if you’re applying for a computer programming position, well, computer programming should be a skill you list. Don’t neglect soft skills either. Employers want to see a good balance of both. Adding “Creative Problem Solver” to “Computer Programming” paints a picture for employers that you have everything it takes to complete your job effectively. Lastly, you don’t have to submit the same resume every single time, so tailor it for the job at hand by highlighting your most relevant experience and skills. You should never submit the same cover letter.
Completely Fill Out Your LinkedIn Profile
Make sure your information is up to date. Add skills, projects you’ve worked on, and past experience to your profile. Ask for recommendations from former coworkers and managers.
If that little progress bar doesn’t say you’re profile is at “All-Star” level, you have more things to add! Follow LinkedIn’s suggestions and you should be just fine.
Also, make sure you take a picture. You don’t have to get a professional headshot done, but last night’s selfie from the bar isn’t appropriate for LinkedIn. Find a friend, a pretty bland wall, and say cheese!
Evaluate Your Digital Presence
If it’s online, it can be found. This doesn’t mean you should erase your life, but it might be a good time to peruse social media for all of the posts your jerk friend keeps tagging you in. Keep in mind, the industry you are in will dictate how strict your social presence should be, but this doesn’t mean you can’t let your personality shine. Do a Google search on yourself. If a hiring manager doesn’t find anything, they will probably assume one of two things: either you’re out-of-date or you’re hiding something.
Remember that resume you updated? We live in the digital age. Having a digital version of your resume available, especially if you are applying for a technology-based position, is wise. You don’t have to be a web developer to create a simple website these days. Platforms such as Weebly and WordPress make creating a site at low or no-cost simple! Showcase your skills and make sure you have some sample pieces available.
Get Samples Ready
Before you submit that resume, make sure you have some samples ready. Are you applying for a writing position? Your high school analysis of Lord of the Flies isn’t enough. Have samples of blog posts, magazine articles, newspaper articles, and/or essays ready to submit. Same thing goes for graphic designers, developers, photographers, social media managers, etc. Samples will be expected. Many companies will ask for these things up front while others will ask for them as follow-up. Bonus: Highlight some of your best works on LinkedIn or a personal website.
Research The Company
Spend some time looking at the company you are applying to. Check out their website, see who works there, read some blogs, and try to get a good feel for the company’s culture. You should also think about how you would fit in there and how you can personally better the company.
Job hunting can be a daunting, even defeating task, but taking the time to get a few things in order before you start applying can make the process much easier and more fruitful. It will also help paint an organized and professional picture for your potential employers!
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