Recruiters’ corner: Getting noticed, the right way
Damon Thomas, from Hasson Associates, reveals how best to get noticed in a competitive job market.
Getting noticed in a competitive job market is never easy and that is never truer than right now. If you are looking for a new job, you have probably noticed that you are not alone. In fact, at times, it can feel like you are just another face in the crowd. Employers are more demanding and therefore you need to stand out. How do you do this?
Let’s start with your CV. Whether the first step to this new role is via a recruiter or potential employer they will want to see your CV. Make sure it is always up to date and ready to send. Any delay in sending your CV sends out the wrong message and questions your commitment. Ensure you review your CV, make sure it is well laid out and highlights the areas that make you unique and relevant to the jobs you wish to apply for. Don’t be afraid to blow your own trumpet; be confident – make a list of the relevant key achievements and highlight where your actions have positively impacted the business. This is your first opportunity to sell yourself but don’t lie or exaggerate, employers can spot a ‘blag’ a mile away.
If you secure an interview, make sure you make the right first impression. Treat all meetings professionally – this is especially true in the current climate where video is your window – dress smartly and ensure your environment is appropriate for the call.
Once at interview stage, find out everything you can about the interviewers and the company. Look them up on LinkedIn, follow them on Twitter etc – this will help you to know what may impress them, annoy them, or where you may share a common interest. In the interview, be yourself, be friendly, honest and open. The more personal the connection you make and the more they like you as a person, the better chance you have at being chosen for the job.
Following the interview, thank the interviewers for their time and express your interest. Again, if going through a recruiter provide feedback as soon as possible; if you are keen don’t be afraid to show it. A well worded email to a prospective boss is always appreciated.
If you are rejected, ask for feedback and use that for the next application.
If you are serious about developing your career and you feel that is best served in a new role you need to be pro-active. Always be aware of the roles on offer at the companies you want to work in, register with a recruiter if you want someone else to do that for you. Build your own profile on social media, making sure you are noticed when the time is right.
And lastly, stay positive, even if the job search takes longer than you had hoped, making a good impression means that you won’t be waiting long.
Damon Thomas
Senior Associate
Hasson Associates