The job market is becoming increasingly competitive, and it's not uncommon for hiring managers to receive hundreds of applications for a single position. To stand out from the crowd, it's essential to make your job application super fresh and attention-grabbing. Here are 10 ways to do just that:
1. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
Before you start applying for jobs, make sure your resume and cover letter are tailored to the specific position you're applying for. Study the job description and requirements, and make sure your resume and cover letter highlight the skills and experience that match the job. Use keywords from the job description to help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS).
How to Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
- Use keywords from the job description
- Emphasize relevant skills and experience
- Customize your objective statement to match the job
- Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and experience
2. Use a Professional Online Presence
In today's digital age, having a professional online presence is crucial. Make sure your social media profiles, LinkedIn profile, and personal website (if you have one) are professional and consistent with your personal brand. Employers often search for candidates online, so make sure you're presenting yourself in the best possible light.
How to Create a Professional Online Presence
- Use a professional profile picture and header image
- Write a compelling and professional bio
- Connect with industry leaders and professionals
- Share relevant and informative content
3. Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
If you're in a creative field, having a portfolio is essential. Even if you're not in a creative field, having a portfolio can still be beneficial. Create a portfolio that showcases your skills and experience, and make sure it's easy to access and view.
How to Create a Portfolio
- Choose a platform to host your portfolio (e.g. Behance, Wix, WordPress)
- Select your best work to showcase
- Write a brief description of each project
- Make sure it's easy to navigate and view
4. Network and Make Connections
Networking is key to finding job opportunities and getting hired. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn. Building relationships with people in your industry can lead to job opportunities and valuable advice.
How to Network and Make Connections
- Attend industry events and conferences
- Join professional organizations and networking groups
- Connect with people on LinkedIn
- Reach out to people in your industry for advice and guidance
5. Use Keywords and Phrases
Using keywords and phrases from the job description can help your application pass through ATS and catch the eye of the hiring manager. Use keywords and phrases throughout your resume, cover letter, and online profiles.
How to Use Keywords and Phrases
- Use keywords from the job description
- Use phrases from the job description
- Use keywords and phrases throughout your application materials
- Use keywords and phrases in your online profiles
6. Show Enthusiasm and Passion
Showing enthusiasm and passion for the industry and company can make you a more attractive candidate. Research the company and industry, and show your passion and enthusiasm in your application materials and during interviews.
How to Show Enthusiasm and Passion
- Research the company and industry
- Show your passion and enthusiasm in your application materials
- Share your ideas and thoughts about the industry and company
- Ask thoughtful and insightful questions during interviews
7. Use Action Verbs and Quantifiable Results
Using action verbs and quantifiable results can make your application materials more effective. Use action verbs like "managed," "created," and "developed" to describe your experience and skills. Use quantifiable results like "increased sales by 25%," "reduced costs by 30%," and "improved efficiency by 40%."
How to Use Action Verbs and Quantifiable Results
- Use action verbs like "managed," "created," and "developed"
- Use quantifiable results like "increased sales by 25%," "reduced costs by 30%," and "improved efficiency by 40%"
- Use specific numbers and statistics to demonstrate your skills and experience
8. Get Referrals
Getting referrals from current or former employees can increase your chances of getting hired. Ask your network if they know anyone who works at the company, and ask for a referral.
How to Get Referrals
- Ask your network if they know anyone who works at the company
- Ask for a referral
- Use the referral to get an inside look at the company
- Use the referral to get an introduction to the hiring manager
9. Use a Professional Email Address
Using a professional email address can make you appear more professional and serious about your job search. Create a new email address that is professional and easy to remember.
How to Use a Professional Email Address
- Create a new email address that is professional and easy to remember
- Use a professional email address as your primary email address
- Use a professional email address in your application materials and online profiles
10. Follow Up
Following up after applying can show your enthusiasm and interest in the position. Send a follow-up email or make a follow-up phone call to inquire about the status of your application.
How to Follow Up
- Send a follow-up email or make a follow-up phone call
- Inquire about the status of your application
- Show your enthusiasm and interest in the position
- Ask if there's any additional information you can provide
What is the most important thing to include in a job application?
+The most important thing to include in a job application is relevant skills and experience that match the job description.
How can I make my job application stand out?
+You can make your job application stand out by tailoring your resume and cover letter to the specific job, using keywords and phrases from the job description, and showcasing your skills and experience through a portfolio or online profiles.
What is the best way to follow up after applying for a job?
+The best way to follow up after applying for a job is to send a follow-up email or make a follow-up phone call to inquire about the status of your application.