Job hunting can be very daunting and frustrating especially when every strategy you use fails. This is why it’s important to ensure that not just your strategy is right, but the tools, mindset, and persons you utilize in your job search are all relevant to ensure success.
For every job vacancy advertised, there are hundreds of job seekers applying to it. The question then becomes, “What increases your chances of getting that job?”
Heed to these tips to boost your chances of getting a job offer:
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Make sure your resume is updated: Having a sound and updated resume is one of the most crucial parts of securing a job because it’s an employer’s first impression of you. Make sure that all your information is current and valid. Don’t forget to double-check for any grammar or formatting errors. It also pays to have another person look it over, too. They may be able to see the faults you may not see.
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Ensure your resume and cover letter are tailored to the job you’re applying to: Your resume and cover letter should always be tailored to the job you’re applying to. You can do this by saving a generalized copy of each and then tweaking them to satisfactorily fit the exact responsibilities and requirements of the job you are applying to. For increased success, search for keywords in the job vacancy that you can add to your resume. This helps you get past any applicant tracking systems.
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Always be prepared for anything. Throughout your job search, it’s important to prepare for the unexpected as you may be surprised by what can happen. For example, a company may ask for an interview right away if they are urgently hiring. In the same way, it can take months for a company to get back to you with a job offer. Being flexible and prepared for the unexpected can help you enhance your chances of getting a job.
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Be courteous and kind to everyone: When entering a company, be courteous and kind to everyone you meet. You may never know if they will have any input on the employer’s hiring decision.
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Also apply to jobs you are under-qualified for: We’ve all been told to direct our focus on jobs we’re qualified for, still feel free to apply to jobs where you may not be a fit for every single prerequisite. You may never know, the employer may decide to give you an opportunity.
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Always send follow-up emails: After your interview or having a conversation with a recruiter, it is wise to send a follow-up thank-you email the next day. The email should show that you enjoyed speaking with them and that you are still interested in the role. This shows how courteous and professional you are.
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Track the jobs you apply to: It’s normal to apply to lots of jobs when you’re actively job hunting. To avoid applying to the same job more than once, track them in an Excel sheet. This also helps you to remember when to follow up with an employer – preferably a few weeks past the application deadline if you don’t hear back from them.
- Recognize job keywords: Keywords are used by search engines and career websites. These search terms aid in job discovery. You should therefore learn the keywords used in the job description as well as the ones that apply to the type of work you want. It enables you to customize your resume and uncover additional opportunities that fit the keywords.
- Request Informational Interviews: Contacting the hiring firm and requesting informational interviews is a terrific method to learn more about the organization while also expressing interest in the position. If you create a good impression during these meetings, they may remember you if a position opens up.
- Be mindful of your online presence: Nowadays, the majority of hiring supervisors review an applicant’s social media handle. This is in a bid to know more about your personality, outlook on things and the world, and belief system. It’s important to remove and/or avoid putting out things that don’t speak well of you or things that may hinder you from getting a job.
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