Navigating the job market may seem like a daunting task, especially when statistics suggest that the average person, including yourself, could be more adept at it. In fact, according to the author of the book Get Hired Now, as many as 95% of us are somewhat in the dark when it comes to the nuances of job hunting.
This book aims to guide you in uncovering and pursuing the right career opportunities, from crafting a compelling résumé to acing interviews. All of this is designed to empower you to approach your job search with newfound confidence.
Have an error-free resume that is concise and to-the-point
Erase what you thought you knew about crafting a résumé. The game has changed, and adapting to the new rules is vital. In our current job market, over 75% of résumés go through the initial screening by automated systems or robots. Your primary goal is to make it past this digital barrier, but how can you achieve that?
Start by simplifying your résumé. Avoid excessive creativity. This is not the time for fancy boxes, columns, tables, logos, or unusual fonts. Remember, machines, not humans, are your first audience. Robots prefer straightforward, unadorned information.
Above all, proofread rigorously for spelling and grammar errors. Enlist a friend’s help if needed. Even minor mistakes can suggest a lack of attention to detail, potentially costing you opportunities.
A polished online presence and robust network can open doors in your job search – cultivate both with care
Understand that in our digital age, your online persona can significantly impact your job prospects. According to a 2018 CareerBuilder survey, a staggering 70% of employers use social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn to screen potential candidates.
More telling, 57% decided not to proceed with a candidate based on the content they discovered online. Do a comprehensive digital clean-up ensure your social media presence isn’t sabotaging your chances.
Harness the power of AI-driven job search platforms and professional networking sites
The days of sifting through newspaper classifieds, mailing resumes and cover letters, and waiting anxiously for weeks for a response are long past. Today, it’s all about leveraging the power of job search platforms and professional networking sites.
The core idea here is to utilise job search websites and professional networking sites to find suitable vacancies. An advanced job search platform uses artificial intelligence (AI) to recommend suitable jobs and instantly alert you when new positions are posted.
The first 20 seconds of an interview are crucial, so dress appropriately and exude confidence
A job interview typically spans between 30 to 60 minutes. However, the time it takes for you to make an impression on your interviewer is shockingly just 20 seconds.
When it comes to attire, research suggests that well-dressed individuals are perceived as more competent. It doesn’t mean you need to break the bank on your interview outfit. Find something stylish and comfortable. Also, make sure to iron your clothes before the interview – crumpled clothes can leave a poor impression.
Let’s now turn our attention to behaviour. A few key points to keep in mind are:
First, maintain a genuine smile. The more you smile, the more your interviewer will anticipate a positive outcome.
Second, maintain strong eye contact. This signals confidence and bolsters the interviewer’s trust in you.
Lastly, extend a firm handshake. This, too, is a sign of confidence. Make it a point to use the interviewer’s name, as it shows respect and that you’ve been paying attention.
Interviewing is a two-way dialogue just like a tennis match – serve well, return skilfully, and always follow up
One of the most prevalent opening questions in interviews is: “Tell me about yourself.” Contrary to what you might assume, this isn’t your chance to recite your résumé – your interviewer has already read that. Instead, think of this as your opportunity to serve a “magical first sentence.” Incorporate the interviewer’s name, show enthusiasm, and skilfully steer the conversation towards a topic or a past work experience you are proud to share.
Make the interviewer feel valued by taking a brief two-second pause before you respond to a question or a point they’ve made. This pause indicates that you’re reflecting on what they’ve said or asked, making you appear as a thoughtful listener.
Prepare for two other common interview questions:
Firstly, “Why are you leaving your current job?” While there’s no perfect answer, refrain from making negative comments about your current employer or boss. Doing so only casts a negative light on you.
Secondly, towards the end of most interviews, you’ll usually be asked if you have any questions. Absolutely, you do! Come prepared. Asking questions shows your enthusiasm and interest in the job.
Lastly, always follow up with a thank-you note. Surprisingly, only 43% of candidates seize this simple opportunity to distinguish themselves.
To secure your dream job, it’s essential to adapt, prepare, impress, and negotiate effectively
In the current job market, securing a job is no longer the same as it once was. Before you even arrive at the interview stage, there are several crucial steps to undertake. You need to ensure that your resume is designed to bypass automated screening processes. Your online presence, including your social media profiles, must be polished and professional. Making good use of the right job portals and tools is essential in finding the opportunities you desire.
Once you’ve landed the interview, the real test begins. Dressing appropriately is not just about looking good, but it’s a sign of respect for the company and the people you’ll be meeting. Throughout the interview, strive to create memorable moments that will resonate with the interviewer, showcasing your skills, enthusiasm, and potential fit within the company. If you receive an offer, deliberate over the terms carefully and negotiate when necessary.
Good luck in your job-hunting journey!
This article is co-created by NexPage, a translated book summary app, and CareersCompass by MyCareersFuture.
