3 Easy Ways to Beat the Competition
Sometimes it can feel like a race to find your next job. And if you’ve been laid off (due to the pandemic, for example), it can also feel like everyone else has a head start.
But finding a good job that suits your career goals isn’t a sprint — it’s a marathon. One where you need to plan your approach and optimize your time so you can get there without burning yourself out at the start.
Thankfully, we know some of the best ways to do exactly that!
Today, we’re going to look at 3 ways you can beat the competition and cross that job search finish line to keep your career moving forward! Let’s go!
1. Keep your documents focused
Just like a runner needs to focus on the road ahead, you need to narrow down your efforts when dealing with potential employers.
For starters, make sure that you customize each resume and cover letter you send out to speak to the specific requirements of the job. A way to make this easier for yourself is to make a master resume first — a compilation of all your skills and experience — then take out irrelevant information before you finalize the version you’re going to send out.
Also be sure to tweak your words to match up with the specific requirements on the job posting. Many job seekers make the mistake of using the same cookiecutter language, and send the exact same resume to each employer. But because each employer is looking for something different, it’s important that each of your applications be uniquely fine tuned to their needs.
Not following their expectations is like making a wrong turn in the race!
You should also consider how easy-to-read and scannable your document is. A recruiter should be able to get an idea of you within a few sentences, and you should keep your strongest value statements at the top of the page.
Be sure to focus on ensuring you have clear and correct formatting, spelling, and grammar. We recommend having a third party review your documents to offer input and make suggestions. META offers free resume and cover letter services, so if you’re looking for some help, we’re here to lend a hand!
2. Don’t just seek jobs, seek connections
Many job openings aren’t even posted publicly before someone is hired. It’s important to make sure you already have your foot in the door with businesses and recruiters who can keep you in the loop.
When it comes to your job search, networking is as important as applying and interviewing for jobs.
Friends, family, colleagues old and new, mentors, and industry peers — these are some of the most easily built relationships for growing your network.
By keeping connected to people who know about hiring opportunities, or make hiring decisions, you can finish the race before the competition even knows it’s started!
3. Keep moving forward
Sometimes job seekers will spend a bit of time making a boring resume, and sending out a couple of applications, then sitting back and waiting for an opportunity to come their way.
While slow and steady might win the race, not moving at all definitely won’t.
It’s important to stay proactive and keep working on finding work until you get what you’re looking for. Stay on top of job boards and on the lookout for news from your ideal employers.
Stay active on your professional accounts (such as LinkedIn or portfolio websites) and keep other industry peers engaged.
When you feel like you’re running into a wall, take a step back and try a different approach — just don’t give up! Set a schedule for yourself at a pace you can handle that involves:
- Searching for job postings
- Following up with recruiters
- Improving your skills
- Networking
- Paperwork/applications/interviews
And stick to it. Even if you can only go a certain speed, as long as you’re moving forward eventually you’ll find the right opportunity and give your career its second wind!
Conclusion
Whether it’s collecting your documents, connecting with others, or keeping your momentum — we can help!
META has leading resources, services, and programs (all free!) to help you get ahead of the competition! Book your appointment to get ahead today!
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