Every job (and every job application) is different.
Applying for a contract job in the trades will always be different than applying for a permanent accounting role at the bank.
But whether you’re lined up for 5 consecutive interviews at a global megacorp, or heading for a quick chat and handshake at a local business, there’s always something you can learn to get a leg up on the applicants you’re competing with.
Here’s a few tips and tricks that we’ve learned from successful applicants over the years:
1) Keep your resume, references, and certifications up to date
This sounds like an easy one, but you’d be surprised how many candidates stumble on the basics of having current/complete information on their applications.
For example: everyone wants to keep their resume concise, but make sure you’re not cutting something that might matter! Years of experience is one of the top things that employers look at when deciding to move forward with a candidate.
Certifications are a big deal too—if you’re applying for a job where you’d need to recertify or update a qualification, get them updated before you go on the job market—the last thing you want to run into is an employer who needs to hire now and you need 2 weeks to get your paperwork together.
Same thing with references—as much as possible, try to make sure you have people ready to speak on your behalf. Significant delays on your references could put a job out of reach.
2) Networking is still a big deal (really)
There’s a reason companies like to promote internally—because they know exactly how good a person’s work is, and how they’re likely to perform in the new role. They also know that person is a culture fit without having to ask a single question.
So networking is a big deal, because it makes employers feel like they are taking less of a risk on you. While it’s hard to get good data, estimates suggest networking is a factor in somewhere between 40% and 70% of hires (especially true for jobs that aren’t advertised).
And while you might not always be able to be BFFs with the folks interviewing you, any chance to get your name in their heads is good for you.
If you’ve got someone at the company who can put in a good word, or if you can introduce yourself to the hiring manager before the interview, it will make you that little bit more memorable and hopefully, help you make a better impression. Networking might also get you in front of opportunities that might not be publicly available.
3) Avoid cliches in the interview
Ever notice how you tune out immediately when you get called by a telemarketer? That’s because you know exactly what they are going to say next, because telemarketers usually say the same sorts of things.
The same thing can happen in interviews—if you ask the same, obvious questions (“what is it like working here”), or provide the same, obvious answers that hiring managers always hear (“my biggest weakness is I work too much”), you’ll find yourself fading into the crowd.
The best way to stand out? Be honest, well informed, and engaged—do some research on the company and think about the projects you’d be most excited to work on. Instead of thinking up answers to hypothetical questions, focus on stories and situations that showcase your talents—situations you’ve learned from and how you’d apply that in your new role.
4) Understand what makes you special
In a competitive job market, there’s probably going to be a few other applicants whose experience is as good or better than yours—but that doesn’t mean you can’t still get the job.
Despite looking the same on paper, you and other applicants will have vastly different experiences—situations where you applied your skills to solve problems, interpersonal conflicts and disagreements you’ve managed, and projects where you’ve made a major impact.
If you can apply those experiences, skills, and successes to the job you’re interviewing for, it’ll really make you stand out.
Have tons of relevant job experience but hate networking? Not sure what does or doesn’t matter on your resume? Work with an established and experienced recruitment firm.
Raise has 65+ years of experience connecting talent with great work opportunities. We have a huge network of employers who are hiring right now, and skilled recruiters who can make your application shine. Find a job and apply today!
