When you apply for a position, standing out in the applicant pool is important. Some positions get hundreds of applicants. Here are some tips to help your application get noticed!
1. Start with the basics (resume, cover letter, references)
The first step to a stellar application is making sure there are no typos or grammatical errors in your resume, cover letter or references. Ask as many people as possible to look over your resume before you send it. Our peer advisors would be a great way to get an extra opinion on your resume.
2. Keywords
Keywords are words that describe important elements of the position. Many online applications use keyword searches to find the best matches for a position. A good way to find keywords for a specific position is to use the words used in the job description. Once you have some keywords, make sure to put them in your cover letter and resume when explaining your skills. Doing this will make your cover letter and resume more appealing to the person looking through your application.
3. Send your application early
Getting your application in early is a great way to stand out to your employer. You look like someone that gets their work done quickly, and you also give the employer extra time to review your qualifications. This can be especially important if you use tip number six.
4. Save everything in one file
When you send your application over email, make sure to save your cover letter, resume and references (in that order) in one pdf file together. Save the file as” lastname, firstname – position title” to help the employer when he or she have to save and remember multiple applications. You should also paste your cover letter into the email because putting your cover letter in the email body increases readership.
5. Get company employees to endorse you
Obtaining an endorsement from a company employee is actually very important because it is an indicator for the recruiter that you would be a good employee. You can obtain endorsements using LinkedIn. Simply reach out to employees that work in the organization to which you are applying. Interacting and sharing ideas with them could lead to endorsements. If you are able to obtain an endorsement from someone for a position, you can mention this in the first paragraph of your cover letter.
6. Social media
Social media is a tool that can be used to make your application look more appealing. Starting a blog about your industry is a great way to begin. It tells employers that you know about the industry and what you are talking about. You can use LinkedIn and Twitter to promote your blog and connect with others in the industry. Directing your content to the employer is a great way to get noticed. When using social media for this purpose, it is important to review all of the content extensively for mistakes. Putting your social media information on your resume is also a unique way to direct employers to this content.
Job applications are very important and shape an employer’s first impression of you. With attention to details and a few of our recommended tricks – you are sure to make your first impression count!
By Jordan Simonson
CALS Career Services Peer Advisor
