If only job seekers had a magic ball that allowed them to see into the future, surely they would use that magic ball to see how they could get hired faster. Unfortunately, there's no magic ball to predict the outcome of the job search.
There are a few tricks that can be done to ensure that your resume will get the push it needs to get you through the door.
Have a Connection
Never underestimate your friends. Many candidates are those that were referred by another employee within the company. Your buddies could be your salvation in finding a job. They know who in their company is hiring and what they're hiring for. Check your baggage about never doing business with friends with the valet because they're your VIP ticket into being part of the work force.
By already being associated with a company employee, you've already gone part of the way toward proving that you're a strong fit for the company.
Come Prepared
All the connections in the world couldn't save a botched up interview session. Should you get that call to interview, ask as many questions as you can about the company and job itself. Then go the extra mile and do some research on your own. Look at the company's future plans and their direction then vision how you see yourself in that plan.
When it comes to interview time, present these ideas to the interviewer and you can see yourself as part of the company. For more advice on interviewing, check out LiveCareer's Interview Tips section.
Dazzle Them
The resume speaks of your qualifications or credentials. It speaks nothing of your work ethics, personality, or abilities. Hard skills can be taught and showed through work performance. Soft skills aren't as easy. This is the true purpose of the interview session. If you've come to the interview prepared, you've accomplished half of the battle.
Now present your newly found information in a way that not only shows you as a valuable member of the company but as a person of interest to be part of it. Be assertive and impressive. Be tactful and knowledgeable. Above all else, come in with a positive attitude.
Seal the Deal
When the interview is over, you've now completed the second phase of the hiring process. At this point, the interviewer already has a good idea of whether or not you are advancing. The problem is that in a sea of potential candidates there's always the option for "other candidates to interview."
Upon closing the interview, seal the deal by asking about your interview performance. Tread on careful waters, though. If you come off as arrogant, it can hurt you. Rather imply a carefree attitude and politely ask if you're being considered from this point on. For the interviewer that is waning on your advancement, this assertiveness could be the catalyst that pushes them to their consideration.<
Follow Through
No matter the outcome, follow through with the interview. Some companies may be in need of the position right away. Others may not be in so much of a rush. Nothing sends a more positive message than a thank you message to your interviewer for their time in considering you as a candidate. Even if you weren't shortlisted for the final position, it's a good idea to thank them for their time--you never know where your career path may take you in the future.
The key to getting on the fast track towards being hired is having a positive attitude and knowing how to make your resume stand out from the piles and piles on the headhunter's desk. LiveCareer offers a range of tools and tips that can help you develop a world-class resume that will set you apart from the rest. With these tools on your side, your next job is right around the corner.
