Searching for a job in these tough economic conditions can be a daunting task.
With many companies downsizing their workforce and competition being at its peak, it has never been more important for job candidates to stand out in a crowd.
To help job seekers out there, here are a few tips to help you find that job: 1.
Send a Distinct Resume.
Anyone can send a one page word document with the traditional run-down of experience, education, skills, etc.
But when the competition is high, take steps to make sure your resume jumps off the page.
Here's an example: recently a HR manager at a marketing agency showed me the resume a potential job candidate had sent to her office.
Rather than send the traditional word document referenced above, the candidate had constructed an aesthetically pleasing, professional-looking HTML email "resume" that visually conveyed her relevant work experience, education, references, etc.
According to the hiring HR manager, "I contacted her immediately!" As you can see, when done right, making your resume stand out can pay dividends.
2.
Tap Into Your Base.
This is a common saying when it comes to running for political office, but the principal of the phrase applies here too.
As with many things in life, it's not what you know, but who you know.
So before you begin scouring Monster.
com or Careerbuilder.
com, go through your contact book.
When hitting the job market, networking with people who already know you may be more beneficial than "selling" yourself to an entirely new contact.
3.
Show What You Can Bring To The Table.
Find out as much as you can about the company and the job.
Even if you have done similar jobs at other companies try and find out how this company does the job and what they are likely to be looking for in terms of technical knowledge, experience and other skills such as team skills, and competencies such as building relationships, communication, planning, etc.
Try and get information on the organizations culture - are they hard driving and results orientated or more laid back and people oriented.
This will help you to present yourself in the best way at an interview, should you get one.
It might also tell you about whether you would enjoy working for the company given their culture and values.
4.
Master Your Stories.
If you are successful in getting to the interview stage, you will more than likely be asked pretty predictable questions such as your relevant past experience, why you want this job, and your career goals for the future.
You should prepare and practice your answers to these questions in advance - don't wing it! The more prepared, confident, and self assured you appear at the interview the more you will stand out from other applicants.
It may seem awkward, but practice role playing interview questions with a friend or significant other.
All the better if you can do it with someone who is an experienced interviewer themselves.