Tag Archive for: applying for a new job

How AI Can Help You Land Your Dream Job

Finding a job that excites you can be a challenging task. For many job seekers in Minnesota, navigating through the job market can feel like an overwhelming task. But with advances in technology, you don’t have to do it alone! Artificial intelligence (AI) can now help job seekers find their dream jobs and make the search process more efficient.

According to a report from TalentWorks, a typical job seeker applies to as many as 27 job postings before landing a job offer. This underscores the need for effective tools and strategies in today’s competitive job market, making the role of AI in your job search even more crucial.

In this blog post, we’ll outline how AI can support your job search, specifically covering job research, editing and revising resume content, and improving communication skills. By following these tips, you’ll be able to place yourself in a better position to secure a meaningful job and connect to your ultimate career goal.

Here are 4 ways AI can help job seekers find their dream job:

1. Easy Job Research

In the digital age, AI tools have become invaluable for job seekers. These innovative tools can streamline the job search process, making it more efficient and targeted.

AI-based tools can help job seekers research the best companies to work for, analyze salary data to understand what they should be expecting in their next position, and even predict which jobs may be best suited to them based on their skillset. All of this information can inform a job seeker’s decisions, helping them determine the most appropriate roles for them before starting the application process. Adopting AI tools in your job search strategy can truly be a game changer, leveling the playing field and giving job seekers the edge they need in a competitive market.

2. Improves Resume Content

For job seekers, generative AI can be a game-changer. It can help optimize their resume content, making it more impactful and tailored to specific roles. For instance, ResyMatch.io uses generative AI to help job seekers customize their resumes to better fit specific job descriptions. It leverages AI technology to match keywords and phrases in job postings with those in the candidate’s resume, significantly increasing the chances of passing through automated screening software. Similarly, SkillSyncer uses AI to evaluate skills and keywords that will help your resume get noticed by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS.) It conducts a comparative analysis of skills, job titles, and other pertinent keywords and provides constructive feedback and recommendations for improving your job application. By using these tools, job seekers can significantly increase their chances of landing an interview and getting the job they want.

3. Automatic Formatting

Utilizing resume builders such as Indeed and Zety can significantly streamline the job search process. These platforms provide strategic enhancements to your resume, improving its overall structure and content. By analyzing similar job roles, they offer tailored suggestions for listing responsibilities, ensuring your resume effectively highlights skills and experiences that align with potential positions. Furthermore, their AI-powered systems can format your resume professionally, making it more appealing to employers and increasing your chances of landing a job. This type of AI is an invaluable tool for job seekers looking to make a great first impression.

However, one thing to avoid is repetitive and dull content. It is crucial to ensure that your copy is captivating, engaging, and unique to capture attention. To get the most out of resume builders, it is essential to craft your resume manually before utilizing the platform’s automatic features. Doing so will ensure that you are represented accurately and uniquely throughout the job search process.

4. Enhances Communication Skills

Most busy HR managers looking for top talent want to engage in meaningful conversations to learn more about candidates and their qualifications. These are opportunities to demonstrate the professional communication skills required for the job. AI can be used to help boost communication skills by helping candidates prepare for job interviews.

AI-driven tools such as virtual interview simulations can provide an effective way of honing the art of conversation—without ever leaving the comfort of one’s home. This type of technology is designed to allow job seekers to practice answering common questions and develop better answers to more complex inquiries. By anticipating questions and scenarios, AI-driven simulations can help job seekers become more confident in their communications with potential employers.

5. Stay Updated on New Trends

Job seekers need to stay updated and informed about the emerging trends in the job market. AI-driven tools can provide job seekers with helpful insights about the latest trends, such as salary data and new jobs in their field of interest. By utilizing these resources on a regular basis, job seekers can gain a better understanding of what employers are looking for and how they can position themselves to be more attractive candidates. Furthermore, this information can assist in crafting resumes specifically. One way of ensuring you stay knowledgeable is by signing up for job alert notifications and joining online talent communities. These communities give you access to valuable information on your particular industry, new job listings, potential hiring managers’ insights, and AI-driven software updates.

Achieving Your Dream

The best way to use AI in your job search is to take a strategic approach. By incorporating AI into job research, resume content optimization, and communication skills, you can increase your potential of landing your dream job. To sum up, AI is not a substitute, but rather a helpful tool for achieving the dream.

As a people-centric company, we understand the importance of a meaningful and rewarding job. At Award Staffing, we help candidates put their best foot forward to secure long-term careers. Our recruiters are skilled at helping job seekers position themselves favorably to attract local businesses. Contact us today or review our recent job opportunities to get started!

5 Reasons How Skills-First Recruiting Can Benefit Your Job Search in Minnesota

Are you tired of being judged on your experience rather than your skills? Then, you may want to use skills-first recruiting to your advantage when searching for a job in Minnesota. This helps job seekers demonstrate the skills needed to be successful and shift the focus away from formal requirements.

Many industries in today’s market are turning to this hiring approach as it targets an individual’s abilities and potential instead of credentials or past experiences. By placing the focus on skills businesses effectively expand their candidate pool to find the talent they need. This means that job seekers now have a greater likelihood of securing a competitive position by playing up their skills in the application process.

Here are 5 reasons how skills-first recruiting benefits your job search:

1. Promotes Equal Opportunity

Skills-based hiring helps level the playing field by emphasizing merit and competency rather than pedigree or background. This creates a fairer and more inclusive job market where candidates from diverse backgrounds, regardless of their educational qualifications or prior work experience, have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their skills and be considered for a role. This approach benefits job seekers because it enables them to overcome barriers and break into industries or positions they might not have traditionally qualified for, thus broadening their horizons. Job seekers should make sure to include adequate information about their skillset when applying for a job in order to take advantage of this approach.

2. Showcases Your Potential

For those who may not have extensive work experience or who are transitioning into a new field, skills-based hiring provides a platform to showcase their potential and abilities. This is a great way to show how your strengths and accomplishments are relevant, regardless of industry or background. It is essential to highlight your skills in a way that resonates with potential employers. One way to do this is by tailoring your resume to fit the specific requirements of the job. Take cues from the job description and use keywords that align with your skills and experience. Make sure to address how your specific skills and results you’ve accomplished add value to their organization. With the right preparation and confidence, you can prove to employers that you have the right skills and potential to succeed in any role.

3. Emphasizes Your Skills to Stand Out

Job seekers can use their skills to stand out in the hiring process. When applying for a job, it can be easy to list your experience first and foremost on your application. However, emphasizing your skills is an even more effective way to grab the attention of employers. Employers want to hire people who possess technical, soft, and problem-solving skills that align with the job responsibilities. Highlighting your unique and relevant abilities can make you a more attractive candidate, thus increasing your chances of landing the job.

4. Increased Opportunities for Growth

Focusing on skills when hiring promotes a growth mindset and encourages employers to invest in their workforce’s development and training. Companies that prioritize hiring candidates with specific skills tend to provide more opportunities for professional growth and advancement. Job seekers can benefit greatly from this approach as they gain access to skill-building programs, mentoring, and on-the-job training, all of which can enhance their expertise and improve their career prospects.

5. Enhanced Self-Awareness

The skills-based hiring process encourages job seekers to reflect on their own abilities, identify their strengths, and understand areas for improvement. By evaluating and articulating their skills effectively, candidates gain a better understanding of their own qualifications, which can be invaluable during interviews and performance reviews. This self-awareness enables job seekers to align their career aspirations with their skill sets, making more informed decisions about job opportunities and professional growth.

 

Overall, skills-first recruiting is a growing trend in the hiring world and for good reason. By focusing on skills and experience over job titles and education, employers can find the best candidates for the job and create a more equitable hiring process. As a job seeker, emphasizing your unique skills and experience can help you stand out in a crowded field and land the job you deserve.

At Award Staffing we understand the importance of matching each candidate to a job they will succeed in. Our staffing specialists analyze your skills, needs, and goals to find a job that is right for you. Contact us today or view our open positions to find your future.

How to Make a Meaningful Connection in the Hiring Process

Building a meaningful connection in the hiring process requires more than just submitting an application or attending an interview. In today’s highly competitive job market, establishing a strong connection is essential in the hiring process. Whether that be researching, applying for a position, or preparing to meet with future employers. Going the extra mile by reaching out shows that you’re interested and invested in the position. This direct communication makes them more likely to remember you and keep you in mind when it comes to next steps.

Research shows that making a meaningful connection with employers can drastically increase your chances of getting the job. According to a recent survey, applicants who followed up after applying were nearly 50% more likely to receive an interview invitation than those who did not follow up.

So, if you are looking for ways to make a lasting connection, here are 5 steps that will help:

1. Do Your Research

Researching a company is one of the best ways to make a meaningful connection with employers. By taking the time to learn more about an organization and its industry, job seekers can demonstrate their enthusiasm for the position and show that they are well-informed. You also gain insight into what skills or experience employers are looking for in a candidate. Which allows you to tailor your resume and application materials accordingly.

When conducting your research, make sure to read up on their website, search social media channels, and review recent news articles. This will not only provide you with a better understanding of the company’s mission, culture, and values but also help you demonstrate your knowledge when speaking to hiring managers.

Ultimately, by putting in the effort to make meaningful connections with employers, job seekers can increase their chances of standing out from the crowd. By taking these steps, you can be more confident in interactions and make a lasting impression.

2. Attend Networking Events

Networking events are also a great way for individuals to meet crucial recruitment personnel face-to-face. Many businesses attend these events such as career fairs and conferences, so you can get a lot of exposure by attending. This is also a great opportunity to make a lasting impression and build relationships with recruiters and other professionals.

When attending these events, it is important to remember that networking is all about making connections. Bring a few copies of your resume with you so that hiring managers can get an idea of who you are and what you have to offer. Additionally, make sure to practice your elevator pitch beforehand—as this will help you to communicate your value and experience in a concise way.

These events are also a great way to stay up-to-date on industry trends and get valuable advice from other professionals who have been in your shoes before. It’s important to come prepared with questions that demonstrate your interest in the field, as well as your knowledge of the latest developments.

By taking these steps, you are sure to stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of getting noticed by employers. With this approach, you can start making meaningful connections and get one step closer to landing your dream job. Don’t forget that forming relationships is just as important as submitting your application – so make sure to be proactive and take the initiative to make a great first impression.

3. Contact the Hiring Manager Directly

Making a meaningful connection with employers is essential to stand out in the application process. One of the most effective ways to do this is by reaching out directly to the hiring manager. By doing this, you will guarantee that your application is seen and prioritized by the right person.

Before submitting your application, reach out via email or social media (LinkedIn is a great resource). Start by introducing yourself and mentioning that you’ve applied for their position, as well as why you think you’d be an ideal fit for their team. This allows them to get to know you and puts a face (or rather name) behind an otherwise faceless application process—which could increase your chances of getting hired. Making the first point of contact shows them that you are motivated and willing to take initiative – which can make all the difference when it comes to making a decision.

Some other ways to make a lasting impression are through sending a personalized email or letter. Sending a personalized note makes a difference in the hiring process because it shows the employer that you have taken extra effort to make a meaningful connection. Not only does it demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm for the position, but it also allows you to highlight important skills and experiences that may not necessarily be included in your resume. It gives employers a better insight into who you are as an individual and provides them with a better idea of how well you might fit within their company culture. Ultimately, taking the time to send a personalized note will help make sure your application stands out and increase your chances of landing your dream job!

4. Personalize Your Application

Taking the extra time to tailor your resume, cover letter, and other materials shows employers that you are truly interested in their position and have taken the initiative to make a personal connection with them. Personalizing your job application also provides employers with more information than what’s included on paper – allowing them to get a better understanding of who you are as an individual beyond just academic credentials. This solidifies your connection and proves why you are the ideal candidate.

In your application include why this specific role intrigues you. Be sure to highlight any experiences or skill sets that would be beneficial to the position and organization. Here is your opportunity to connect with their company culture and illustrate how you can contribute to their mission and goals. This shows that you are invested in their organization and are eager to be part of their team. Ultimately, by taking this step employers will be able to gain valuable insight into why they should hire you – making it easier for them to make an informed decision regarding your candidacy.

5. Follow-Up

Once you’ve submitted your application and connected with the hiring manager, don’t forget to follow up! Sending a personalized email or note are great ways to keep yourself on top of mind when it comes time for interviews or decisions about the next steps in the hiring process. Be sure to keep all correspondence polite and professional—and always thank them for their time. Finally, make sure you keep track of the details of each conversation and any information they provide—you’ll want to reference this in future correspondence.

Following up after an interview creates a meaningful connection by allowing job seekers to express gratitude and appreciation for their interviewers’ time. Additionally, it allows them to demonstrate their commitment to the role they are applying for and to show that they are truly interested in the job. This indicates that you are passionate about this particular role but also that you take initiative in pursuing what matters most.

 

Therefore, making a meaningful connection with employers can often be the deciding factor in the application process. Taking steps such as attending networking events, customizing your application, and using social media or email to follow up are all effective ways for job seekers to stand out from the competition and increase their chances of getting hired. Ultimately, taking these extra steps shows employers that not only are passionate about the role but also have strong communication skills which can make all the difference when it comes time for interviews or decisions about the next steps in the hiring process.

At Award, our core focus is to connect individuals through meaningful work. We want to help you find a position that you are passionate about. Our recruiters can help connect you with a great business that will match your long-term career goals and skills. Reach out to us or view our current open positions to find your next opportunity!

How to Tailor Your Résumé to Match the Job You Want

Something we have recently observed to be a common occurrence; is a gap between what companies are looking for to qualify candidates, and what job seekers are putting on their résumés.

For people looking for a new opportunity in their area of expertise, this can make finding a job a bit of a challenge.

While part of the issue is that employers are not being entirely clear about the qualifications applicants need to apply, there are things job seekers can do to make their skills and experience stand out to employers.

Here are some of our recommendations:

1. Use Key Words From the Job Posting

Nearly all companies use AI to sort through applications these days. By using words from the posting, the applicant tracking system will instantly recognize the congruence between the post description and your résumé. Additionally, when employers are reading through résumés, industry buzz words are what will jump out at them first. Because many companies have yet to master the “science” of a perfectly communicated job description; the next best thing for candidates to do, is use the right terminology.

2. Apply in More Than One Place

Of course the first place that you want to apply, is directly on the company’s website or using the link the job posting provides. However, if you want to get in quicker, consider sending an email to HR or the hiring manager. Not only does this show initiative and a proactive approach, it will also give you a chance to better explain what you can offer. Applications or submitting your resume through an employment site don’t always give you a chance to thoroughly share your skills. When you’re sending an email, put some of your hard skills and experience in the body of the email.

3. Use Simplicity

Many people submit résumés that are multiple pages and have way too many skills and qualifications listed. While this may be necessary for someone looking for an executive role; individuals who are just getting back into the workforce after a hiatus, or are simply looking for the same role at a different company should be concise. You don’t need to showcase everything you’ve done/can do, you just need to inform them why you are a good fit for the role.

4. Include an Objective

There are so many different résumé templates out there, that the types that employers receive will vary. However, one thing that they should all include; is an objective. This is simply a brief statement that communicates why you are applying for the job and what you can offer. It is typically the first thing included on a résumé, after ones name and contact information. This gives the employer an instant chance to determine whether or not a person could be a fit for what they’re looking for. If your objective is well-done, it will catch their eye.

5. Call or Apply In-Person

While this may not be the right strategy for every position; if you are looking for work in the warehouse or light industrial space, it can definitely be a good option. Many companies in that industry are looking for people to start right away and will even offer you the position and let you start working the same day. Since many of the skills needed can be taught relatively quickly, it benefits employers to get you in and on the floor right away. If you call, they will very likely ask you to come in for an interview and offer the position on the spot if you’re a good fit.

Additionally, it may be helpful to contact a staffing agency to have a recruiter help you with your résumé and share new, local opportunities.

 

If you or someone you know is looking for a job, we at Award are here to help. We update our job boards daily. Check out our newest opportunities here.

The Three P’s of a Job Search

If there’s anything positive about the current state of the workforce, which economists are calling The Great Resignation, it is that current job seekers have the ability to be particular about what they are looking for in their next job and/or company. This is an opportunity for candidates to find a place that they will be with for the long haul because of the fact that there are millions more openings than there are people willing to take them at the moment.

But the question is: do you know what you want? To make certain your next position meets your needs and non-negotiables; you must get explicitly clear on what your own expectations are. This begins by listing out your priorities and asking yourself the right questions. These three “P’s” will be helpful in determining the critical components of what you want in a job.

1. Practicality

This involves taking a good look at what your lifestyle involves outside of work and deciding whether you want to work around it or are willing to make changes to meet the needs of the position. Do you need evenings and weekends off? Do you thrive in a certain type of environment? Do you prefer a structured environment with clear deadlines or do better moving at your own pace? Do you do well in an office environment or would you rather be working out in the field? Right now, it does not have to be all about the company and what you can offer them. Since modern times post-pandemic are being classified as “a candidate market”; use this time to your advantage by looking for what companies can offer you. If you want to be happy over the long term, it’s best not to jump into the first thing that comes your way just because it’s in your area of expertise. Make sure that any job you apply for checks most of the boxes for you. Remember, you deserve to be happy just as much as your employer deserves to have a stellar employee. Set yourself up for success by identifying what you want and choosing roles that are a good match.

2. Passion

If you want to sustain your work and schedule without burning out, it is crucial that there is passion behind the work you are doing. While everyone would like to be passionate about the exact work they are doing as well as the industry that are in,  though that is the ideal, there are multiple ways you can be passionate about your job that many people don’t tend to think about. Do you like managing a team and providing feedback? Do you enjoy writing and content creating? Do you like being part of projects from start to finish? Do you like onboarding and working with clients? Maybe a company that you’re interested in is working to end a social problem…No matter what it is, passion is one of the biggest factors in staying motivated while you’re at work; therefore you must find it in one way or another.

3. Personal Fulfillment

This goes for your work and your personal life. In order to continue to enjoy your work, you have to make sure that it is not interfering too much with your personal life. While being passionate about your job is great, you can’t get so caught up in working that it is the only thing you do. That is a sure-fire way to lead to burn out. As for your job goes, being fulfilled will ensure that you are happy to show up every day and are doing your best work. Like passion, there are a number of ways you can find personal fulfillment in your workplace. Some examples include: enjoying the team you work with, enjoying your day-to-day tasks, knowing that the work you’re doing is contributing to the greater good, and regularly hitting your goals.

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If you or anyone you know is looking for a job, we at Award Staffing are here to help. Check out our latest opportunities here.

Using the Great Resignation to Your Advantage

It’s no secret that over the past several months, there has been and continues to be more job openings than there are people currently looking for work. In fact, it is estimated that in the United States, there are over a million more positions available than there are people willing to fill them. The pandemic has significantly changed how people view their time and has provided the mental space for people to think about what they really want. Additionally, many people have made lifestyle changes such as homeschooling their children and picking up new hobbies- things they are not willing to give up now that they have experienced them. This has resulted in a mass exodus across the workforce, which is now being referred to as The Great Resignation.

However, if you are someone who is in search of a job, this is your chance to find your dream job. The benefit of there being so many openings is that you can be more particular about the places and positions that you choose, because there are most certainly multiple positions available that match both your lifestyle and your preferences. Here are three things to consider as you’re searching for your newest position:

List Your Non-Negotiables

Now is a time that you can build your career around your lifestyle instead of the other way around, so get clear on what you are and are not willing to accept. Did you used to work 60 hours a week and now you only want to work 40? Did your last job require monthly travel that you don’t want to partake in anymore? Do you only want a certain commute time? If you want to ensure that you’re happy with your job and new company in the long run, take advantage of the abundance of opportunities and only apply for jobs that match what you are looking for. Gone are the days (for now) of taking the first position you’re offered or taking a job solely for the pay.

Consider a New Industry

This could be your chance to finally pursue a job in a field that you’ve always ruminated about. Because there is such a shortage of workers, many companies are willing to look past the need for experience and train new employees. Don’t miss this opportunity by being too intimidated to apply. Search job boards for your dream position and go for it! You never know what will come of it.

 

Follow & Engage with Companies You’re Interested in on Social Media

One of the best things you can do if you want to get in with a company, is to build rapport with them. LinkedIn is the best place to do this, but if they are active on other platforms, those can be great as well. Comment on their posts, ask questions, participate in their polls. This way when you submit your application, there is a chance they will recognize your name. If they don’t, you can talk about how you’re active on their social media in your interview. Also, they may even list job postings on there- be the first to know.

If you or someone you know is looking for a new job, we at Award Staffing are here to help. Check out our latest job postings here.

Self-Study for Job Seekers

Something that most people don’t do while in pursuit of a new career is ask themselves questions and really make it a study to learn what they want in a job. The majority of the time; people look at pay, how well a company is known, and the title/prestige of a position to determine whether or not they’re going to apply somewhere. While all of those things do need to be taken into consideration, it’s not often that people do a self-assessment to establish what’s best for them outside of those parameters.

Every person is going to need different conditions to be met in order for them to be both happy and successful. It’s often the small things that we experience every day that determine whether or not we can be truly fulfilled in a job over the long term. Whether or not we enjoy what we walk into every day affects our ability to thrive and the amount of time we stay in a position.

Here are some factors to consider to help you assess whether or not a job or company could be a good fit for you.

1. What in your last job did you like and not like?

We all need an income, that’s a given. That’s why in many cases it can be difficult not to just take the first offer that comes your way. However, if you want to sustain your happiness and continue to produce quality work after the thrill of a new position goes away; you must be sure that you’re ok with most things that come along with it. For example, if you know that you couldn’t cope with the strict dress code at your last company, working for another company with a similar policy is probably not the best option.

2. What are you interested in?

What industries and/or what type(s) of projects? While it’s not realistic for every single aspect of a job to be your favorite, there has to be some level of interest. Whether it’s the work you’ll be doing on a daily basis or the line of work you’re involved in, you’ll want to choose something that you’re either interested in learning more about or something you have already been involved in and know you enjoy.

3.What natural proficiencies do you have?

The ability to lead, write, sell, plan…Are you excellent with technology or graphic design? Even if it is something that you have never done before, don’t be intimidated to inquire and apply if you have a knack for something. This is how many people begin working their dream careers. If you write in your spare time and know you enjoy it, why not look into a copywriting or columnist position?

4. What are the key things you can bring to your workplace?

No matter what, it is crucial that you have the opportunity to showcase your abilities and use your talents in your place of work. If you list out all of the things you have brought to past work places, you will likely open yourself up to even more options by having a wider net to cast.

5. What are your top values?

Service, financial stability, free time? Knowing these things about yourself ahead of time and asking about them in the interview process will be of great benefit. If free time is important to you, having a position that requires you take calls at night after you’ve left the office or on weekends is not an option. If your top value is service, you can likely go onto the company’s website and research if there is a cause they contribute to. You could also search specifically for positions in non-profit or sustainability. Values run deep within all of us; if something is important to you, your career choice should be in line with it.

6. Is there a certain environment you know you can’t work well in?

We all thrive in different environments. If you are an extravert and prosper in an environment with a lot of people, an office position with a team of three will not be your best option. If you are an introvert and you know you need your surroundings to be quiet in order to focus, a factory with loud machines is likely not your best bet; even if you do have your own office. Don’t try to convince yourself that you’ll be able to just deal with it. There are plenty of options out there for everyone, no need to get caught up in a scarcity mindset.

7. Does your lifestyle require a certain type of flexibility?

If you have regular doctor appointments or would strongly prefer to be able to be home with your kids more often than not, a job that is partially or entirely remote is a good choice. If you have a very busy schedule and want to be able to go straight from one place to another, (such as from work to the gym to your piano lessons) you likely want one with a lenient dress code so you don’t have to change in between. If you travel a lot, freelance or brand ambassador work may be your answer.

8. Are there any tasks you specifically want or don’t want to perform?

Even if you like your job for the most part, if there are certain things you dread, you likely won’t appreciate it over the long haul. List out all of the things you can’t envision yourself doing and be sure to choose positions where those things are not a requirement. If there are things that you really want to do because maybe you have never had the chance in the past, search specifically for those types of roles.

 

If you are in search of a new job, we at Award Staffing are here to help you find your future! Check out our newest available positions here.

How to Stand Out in a Sea of Candidates

When in pursuit of a new job, it can feel like a shot in the dark.  Although you know what credentials you bring to the table and all of the reasons you’re the most qualified candidate in a pool of dozens; you are likely wondering if it’s even possible to stand out as noteworthy among your competition. Despite commonly held belief, there are many tactics you can use to be noticed amidst a collective of other applicants. Here are some examples:

 

Tailor Your Résumé

When it comes to the hiring process, the company-candidate matchmaking begins with your résumé. While in search of a new job, especially if you are in urgent need of a steady income, you may be inclined to throw together an all-encompassing résumé and fire it off to as many organizations as possible. However, when hiring managers are reviewing applicants, they are looking for someone who will meet the requirements for their company, not just the industry in general. Taking the extra time to refine your résumé by putting the job title you are applying for in the “objective” section and listing out skills that are relevant to the specific position, confirm that you will perform well, since from the beginning you were willing to go the extra mile.

Additionally, don’t forget to include a cover letter. This illustrates that you are serious about the position and gives you even more of a chance to discuss your abilities and experience. Remember, the goal is to be a pink envelope in a stack of white envelopes.

Show Initiative

You never know how many other people are applying for the same position as you. If there are hundreds of applications, chances are, some of them are going to get discarded. Don’t let yours be one of them. A few days after submitting your application, reach out to the hiring manager and let them know that you applied. This will encourage them to review your résumé if they haven’t already or give it a second and longer look. If you reach out through a phone call, you may even get the opportunity to showcase your personality a bit.

Furthermore, companies want to recruit people who are eager to work for them. Getting in contact with the hiring manager will express your interest in this particular company, showing that they were not just a number on your list of “possible places to work”.

 

Present Your Work

Especially for positions that require tangible results, it is important that you have a portfolio of past projects and/or data that showcases your contributions to your previous company. People can go on and on about how great they are and how perfect of a fit they would be, but nothing exhibits your value better than proof. This can look like photos of a project you worked on, a link to a website you built, marketing collateral you designed, or a document of your sales numbers. When trying to outshine other candidates in the interview process, it’s important to show companies what you can do, not just tell them.

 

Research the Company

Something that not enough people do prior to going into an interview is educate themselves on the company they have applied to. Nothing will make a lasting impression better than knowing what year the company was founded, who the CEO is, or how many locations a business has. If you’ve done your due diligence, you will know all three of those answers going into an interview. Not only will this communicate your genuine interest in the company, it will make you look resourceful and well-prepared. Also, you never know when a hiring manager will put you on the spot and ask what you know about the organization. Don’t get caught at a loss for words. Instead, astound them with the amount of knowledge and awareness you do have surrounding the company.

 

Be Specific and Results Oriented

When responding to questions during an interview, do your best to give personal career examples as often as possible. This will show the person conducting the interview that you have a fundamental understanding of what is being asked and will convey an element of sincerity. Too often, candidates get caught up in trying to tell an interviewer what they want to hear, not realizing that they have likely heard the same response a million times before. By using thought out examples of what you have achieved or completed in the past, the hiring manager will have a better idea of your capabilities and what results you will be able to produce for the company.

Be Personable and Show Enthusiasm

It is no secret that no matter what position you are trying to acquire, you want to make a good impression on the person interviewing you. Because of this, it is all too common for candidates to be tense and act overly polished during an interview. Although it is important that you present yourself as serious about your career, in order to determine whether or not you are a good culture fit for the company, the hiring manager must be able to see your personality…and let’s be honest, no one wants to hire someone who is uptight. Be ready to make the conversation a dialogue, not just a question and answer session. People tend to hold back their passion and excitement about opportunities for fear of looking desperate or second-rate, but even with all of the necessary skills and experience, if you lack eagerness for a position, the company will gloss over you and onboard someone who is keen on the idea of working there.

If you are in the market for a new job, be sure to check out our list of opportunities here

Three TED Talks to Inspire Your Job Search

Looking for a job is a trying time. Your patience and your resourcefulness can be tested, to say nothing of your perseverance and your morale. At times you’re going to need different ways to motivate yourself. Most people turn to their friends and family during those times but there are going to be instances where you need to find different ways to light a fire under yourself. TED Talks are a great way to get started on that process. The talks started in 2006 as a way of offering brief lectures on content of varying topics, given by experts and experienced practitioners within different fields. Here are some of our favorite TED Talks related to the job search process.

Jason Shen’s “Looking for a job? Highlight your ability, not your experience”

Many people in the job hunt are not just looking to find a new opportunity – they’re looking to find a different opportunity. This becomes especially relevant if you are interested in changing fields. If you’re transitioning from one industry to another then your actual experience might not be the most relevant part of your job seeker profile. Instead, you need to rebrand yourself and pitch yourself based off of your ability to perform work in the new field rather than your track record in the old field. Shen’s talk touches on all of these points while also noting how the job applicant evaluation process needs to change to incorporate this level of thinking about a person’s potential.

Scott Dinsmore’s “How to find work you love”

Scott Dinsmore’s talk is a humorous foray through his past experience, including some of the worst advice he’s ever gotten, as he discusses how to find a career that has meaning and potential for you. He emphasizes the fact that the vast majority of people don’t enjoy their work, and how you can set yourself apart from the pack. He is a big believer that personal relationships can influence what we do and the paths our careers take, so it’s crucial to be mindful of who you associate with. Dinsmore is a thoughtful and engaging speaker, and his talk can be a real boost.

Carol Fishman Cohen’s “How to get back to work after a career break”

We all know that life is not a straight path or a straight line. Your career can be disrupted or paused for any number of reasons – maybe you need to take care of an ill relative, or you need to go back to school for a while. No matter the reason, your career has hit a delay or a detour. This is completely fine, and Cohen is ready to talk “relaunchers” into how they can hit the ground running if and when they choose to enter the workforce again.

Working on finding a new job is really a job unto itself a lot of the time. The stress and strain are very real, so make sure that you’re taking the time to use resources like these videos if you ever feel the need to recharge your batteries as you hunt your next great opportunity.

Looking for the right position? Let Award Staffing help when you reach out to us today.

Why You Need to Have a Wide Range of Job Experiences

If you are deciding whether or not to leave a particular job, there might be some merit to applying for a new career. You might even want to consider applying for a new job or position that is in a different field than your previous job. Here are the reasons why you should have a wide range of job experiences:

You Will Be Versatile in the Workplace-

If you learn a wide variety of different skills, you have the luxury of being versatile in the workplace. That means you can handle several different tasks or positions as opposed to just one task or position. This alone makes you a valuable and indispensable employee, which reduces your chances of being laid off or fired. 

You Will Learn What You Don’t Want-

If you have a wide range of job experiences, you can quickly learn what you don’t want in a future job. You can build your career around the experiences you enjoyed the most and try to stay away from the experiences you didn’t particularly enjoy.

You Will Find Parallels between Jobs-

If you work at many different jobs, you will eventually start being able to make parallels between jobs. This is useful because you will be able to apply certain tasks and problem-solving skills to two jobs that aren’t seemingly related at all. This will make you more easily adaptable to any situation in which you are placed.

You Can Keep Your Options Open-

When you have a lot of job experience, you are able to keep your options open in terms of career paths. You can work different jobs and then eventually return to the job in which you feel the happiest. You can also change career directions if one aspect of your life changes due to outside factors such as marriage or relocation.

If you would like to have a wide range of job experiences, contact Award Staffing. We will help place you in a job or series of jobs that will serve to give you more experience. We will also help you diversify your job experiences when applying for jobs with our company in the future.