How do you get noticed by hiring managers? In this virtual world of anonymity, it may seem hard to make your application stand out. However, you can create interest and be noticed. Here are some basic tips to get you started and land that job.
1. LinkedIn & Resumes
If you apply via LinkedIn or online, attach a resume. Although it’s not necessary, it will help set you apart. It saves the hiring managers from having to “print screen” and paste your qualifications into a word document. This way, your achievements will be presented in an easy-to-read document that’s effortlessly passed on to the relevant hiring managers at the company.
2. Naming Your Resume
When you submit your resume, use the following format to name the document:
Your last name, first name, and the position for which you applied.
For example, in my case it would be named: Hill-Sara-HR-Executive.
This makes your document easily identifiable for the hiring personnel. As hiring managers are sorting through hundreds of resumes for the six open positions, they will be able to find your resume quickly. Naming it “resume 2018” or “Annie’s resume” will hinder the hiring manager from locating your resume again. Make it easy for them – it’ll increase your chances of moving forward in the application process!
3. Proofread!
You’ve heard it before, but I’ll remind you again: SPELL CHECK your resume! Check and double-check for poor grammar, typos, and other errors. If you don’t know the difference between “there” and “their” or miss simple typos, that speaks badly about your ability to perform other, more difficult tasks. Show that you pay attention to detail and have the basic knowledge needed to perform the job for which you are applying.
4. Thoughtful Email
In your email to the hiring manager, be thorough and professional.
As a bad example, I got an email today that said: “I’m applying for the xxx job, please consider me. I’ve attached my resume.”
This email took minimal effort to compose and is impersonal. Spend at least a few minutes putting together an email that communicates your interest and qualifications. Make it personal and specific to the job and company. You want an email that will stand out and grab their attention.
5. The Importance of a Cover Letter
Don’t forget a cover letter! Out of about 50 resumes I went through yesterday, only ONE person included a cover letter. As such, that person stood out and moved on to the next phase of the hiring process. Including a cover letter WILL make a difference. Take the time to compose a cover letter that is specific to the job you’re applying for. It will take a little extra time, but it’s worth it.
6. Resume Length
Keep your resume short and sweet. The standard is one to three pages, depending on your work history and experience. The younger or less experienced you are, the shorter it should be. Hiring managers don’t have time to read a novel of your accomplishments. Include only those that are most relevant and best illustrate your skills.
7. Personal Details
Hiring managers really don’t want to know all the details of your family. In fact, we shouldn’t know.
For example: If you tell me you’re a family man who has been married for 18 years and have two daughters ages 12 and 14 who are involved in soccer, it won’t make me think you’re more qualified than anyone else.
Keep your resume, email, and cover letter relevant to the job and the skillset you bring. Those are the only qualifications the hiring managers are looking for.
These are just basic things you should check for before submitting your application. Follow these steps to ensure your application materials don’t blend in with the ocean of other resumes. Good luck!
Once you move on to the interviewing phase of your job search, be sure to watch our webinars with Sara Hill on phone interviews, virtual interviews, and in-person interviews.
Sara Hill is an HR Executive who has years of experience in hiring employees for major companies. She is a guest contributor for Petite2Queen.