It is time to change your job search approach. For 2012, the key is to beat your
competition. Here are some new strategies, written by experts, that will help you
to achieve victory over your competitors.
1. Make Your Resume Match
Many people use the same resume to apply to all job openings – big mistake! A Hiring
Manager is looking for candidates that meet specific qualifications. That means
that your resume needs to highlight the same qualifications that are mentioned in
the ad.
It's simple. All you have to do is jot down a list of the skills mentioned in the
ad. Then, update your resume, making sure you include all these skills in your resume.
Of course, include only the skills that you actually have. If you don't have a majority
of the skills listed in the ad, you're probably not a good fit and you should think
twice about applying.
2. Resume by Numbers
Compare the following examples:
Example 1: Great customer service
Vs.
Example 2: Improved Customer satisfaction ratings by 20%
Which one would you choose for the job? Adding 3-4 numerical results to your experience
section will win over a laundry list of basic tasks and duties any day.
3. Write a Cover Letter
Hiring managers are more likely to select candidates with a cover letter than those
without. Yet, you'd be surprised to find out that a majority of job seekers don't
bother writing one.
Beat your competition simply by taking a little bit of extra time and writing a
cover letter that describes why you're a great candidate for the job.
4. Don't Just Apply – Post Your Resume
It seems obvious, but even with a perfect resume, you won't get a job if your resume
is not seen by employers. The fastest, easiest way to increase your resume's visibility
is to post your resume on job boards—both large sites as well as smaller, industry
sites. This is different from applying to a specific job.
Even if you're not applying to a specific job, post your resume anyways. Posting
your resume makes it searchable by recruiters, staffing agencies and anyone who
is looking for your unique qualifications.
5. Let People Know You're Looking
There's no reason to by shy. Go ahead and let people know that you're looking for
work. Take advantage of your alumni association or online networking sites like
LinkedIn, to help you leverage your professional network. Increase your network
by attending professional conferences, talks/seminars, and other places where you
can meet more people to expand your network.
6. Actively Follow Up
Don't passively play the waiting game! Following up with a phone call, email or
even a personal note will set you apart from the rest of the applicants. It shows
initiative and gives you another chance to express your interest in the position.
It takes additional effort to win at the high-stakes job search game and beat the
competition, but in the end, it is definitely worth it.
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Dominate your job search with a resume written by a professional resume writer.
Email our resume writers at resumewriting@livecareer.com
for more information.