As the Coronavirus pandemic passes and the economy reopens, there’s going to be an overwhelming number of job seekers on the market. As a result, if you want to get the job, you’ll need to find ways to stand out from the crowd. Follow these quick tips to ensure you’re ahead of the competition.
Begin Preparing Now!
If you’re stuck at home, take advantage of this free time. In other words, ready, set… start preparing for your job hunt NOW! Update your resume, set up job alerts, connect with a recruiter, clean up your social media accounts, and research common interview questions. Completing these steps early will push you ahead of the competition. Rather than rushing around to put things together when the economy restarts, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running.
Continue Developing Your Skill Set
Your unexpected downtime also provides a wonderful opportunity for you to expand your skillset. Employers are looking for people who are organized, creative, AND lifelong learners. Check out websites like edX, Coursera, and Udemy for free or low-cost online learning options. Find something interesting and commit to studying a little bit every day. This seemingly simple activity will build your confidence and keep you motivated. Plus, you can add any completed certifications and/or courses to your resume.
Start Applying ASAP
Many employers will begin hiring before the end of the shelter-in-place orders because they’ll want to be fully staffed on opening day. Therefore, check the job boards frequently. Or, better yet, set up those job alerts so positions automatically appear in your inbox or text messages. You may not see many (or any) postings at first, but eventually, things will pick up.
Customize Your Resume for Each Position
With the unemployment rate hitting double digits, employers will receive hundreds of resumes. And since most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to prescan applications, a computer will most likely read your resume before a person does. So, how can you get your resume past the ATS? Often, ATSs are looking for keywords pulled directly from the job description. Thus, for each position, circle key phrases in the job posting and try to include as many of those as possible in your customized resume.
Follow Up with Employers
You’re finally sending out applications. But it’s been a few days, and you haven’t heard anything. Now what? Don’t get too frustrated. After all, employers need some time to sort through those hundreds of resumes. However, if you haven’t heard anything in over two weeks, you may follow up with a brief email or phone call. If you still receive no response, move on. This job simply wasn’t meant to be. On the other hand, if you’re fortunate enough to land an interview, follow up immediately with an interview thank you note.
Are You Looking for More Ways to Get the Job?
The recruiters at BOS Staffing would be happy to help. We place talented candidates with top companies in Gainesville, Georgia, and beyond. Check out our available job openings today!
