Sponsored by Access Group:
Getting a new job is a challenge especially when you work in a competitive field. Every new opportunity attracts thousands of job seekers. Some of them are more qualified for the position than you are. Employers receive thousands of applications even when they haven’t advertised for new positions. Hence, when you send your application, it’s one among hundreds and sometimes thousands of options for employers.
You must find creative ways to make your application stand out and become visible to employers. Here are some important tips to help you become accessible to recruiters:
1. Build your personal brand
Employers check the online profile and reputation of candidates before short-listing them for interviews, so you should maintain a solid reputation online and offline. Build an online profile with your qualifications, interests, strengths, skills, and experiences. You can go a step further and create a personal website where employers can access your personal information.
Check your online posts before sharing them on any social media platform. Your comments and shares will either build or ruin your reputation. As you change from one job to another, be sure to leave each organization honorably. Your future employers are likely to call your past employers and ask about your reputation.
2. Build Your Social Network
About 40% of all jobs come through referrals. As you build your profile, create time to build your network. If you’re looking for job opportunities in your state, you’ll notice the job fairs that top employers organize. Educational institutions are among the top employers that organize job fairs. You have direct access to potential employers at these fairs. Don’t just consider the organizers but also the attendees. You may meet someone who will refer you to your next employer.
It’s important to include potential employers in your social network. However, you also need to network with other job seekers. Keep in touch with former classmates and old friends. Add people to your social network who can help you meet potential employers.
3. Arrange Physical Meetings
It’s easy to send an application via email or mail it and expect feedback. The reality is that thousands of other potential candidates are doing just that. What are the chances that your email application will be more visible to recruiters than others will? After sending an application, go a step further and organize an informational interview. Some rely on recruitment software to shortlist candidates. A physical meeting increases your visibility.
The goal in this interview is to allow the recruiter to meet you and ask any questions about your qualifications and training. When you get a chance to meet a potential employer, do your best to leave a good impression. Prepare for informational interviews as you would prepare for a normal job interview. Remember that you bear the responsibility of calling the recruiters and organizing the interviews.
4. Follow Up
Whether you submit an application online, by mail, or in person, always follow up with the recruiter. Send a follow-up email first to confirm if the application was received. Ask about the application at least a week after the application deadline passes if you don’t get a call for an interview. In your follow up emails, indicate your willingness and qualifications to fill the open position.
Sometimes recruiters provide a phone number for applicants to call for details about an open position. If you don’t get a response via email, call the recruiter and ask about the application. The idea here is to keep your name and application on the recruiter’s mind at all times. When they’re ready to conduct interviews and hire, your name will be among those shortlisted.
5. Respond to Recruiters’ Emails and Calls Promptly
Recruiters may send emails in response to your application or call you for more details or an interview. Respond to such communication promptly and respond to any questions fully. The rule is to respond to every email within 24 hours. This means that you have to check your email inbox several times each day.
If you miss a call from a recruiter, call back immediately as long as it is within working hours. Employers make a quick decision when filling a position. Your competitor may get the job if you delay in responding to the recruiter.
Always bear in mind that there are thousands of qualified competitors in the job market. Your goal should be to remain visible and accessible to recruiters at all times. Attending their fairs, organizing physical meetings, and following up with calls or emails will keep you visible at all times. Remain professional in your communication even when you receive negative feedback from top recruiters.
