Job Search Tips

 

We are blessed to have a thriving economy and with the current market of a 2.5% unemployment rate, there are more jobs that work. How do you make your resume stand out among the crowd so that you will get noticed and called in for the interview?

  1. Have an Up-to-Date Resume Always.

Even if you are not currently looking for a new position, always have an up-to-date resume and LinkedIn profile. You never know when an opportunity can come along.

For example, years ago I applied for a job, was called in for an interview and afterward I was called back, however, instead of offering me the position I was interviewed for, the company felt my skill set was above the position, but they wanted the skills and experience I had for a future project, so to not lose me to another company they created a job for me so that when they were ready I was already on staff. You just never know what opportunities will come along.

  1. Customize

Customize your resume and cover letter to mirror the words and phrases used in the job description. Focus on the skills you have to offer. When creating the generic resume on LinkedIn be sure to use the current buzz words and jargon of today. There are all sorts of tips you can find online, Pinterest and if you have a few dollars to spend you can hire a consultant from LinkedIn to assist you to polish your resume.

  1. Network

Network and meet people working at the company you are interested in. According to themuse.com, by lining up with the people and sharing the ideas of the companies you want to work, you will instantly set yourself apart.

  1. Prepare for the Interview

Prepare for the interview by researching the company and be prepared to ask the interview questions.

If you get nervous, ask for assistance from friends/family to practice with you. Interviews look for candidates who are prepared, however, do not make your answers too polished. In a previous Chamber blog post we discussed some of the questions employers might ask:

      • What have you done? Tell me something you have done, a project you have initiated.
      • If you were a superhero, what superpower would you have and why?
  1. “Thank You” Matters

Be sure to send a thoughtful “Thank You” note to each person who interviewed you within two hours of leaving his/her office. If you send an email thank you be sure to follow up with a handwritten note. This will help put your name in front of the interviewer and will make an impression.

Cheryl Viola, MBA, Executive Director

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