By Mary Donahue Quinlan, Chief Executive Officer, Career Prep Consultants
It’s Spring…a time for new beginnings. Whether you are about to graduate or are mid-career and looking for a change……here are some basic tips to help you on your path to finding the perfect job.
- Be Aware of Applicant Tracking Systems
Many job searchers aren’t aware of Application Tracking Systems (ATS), software platforms used by companies to manage the hiring process. There are resumé formatting guidelines that need to be adhered to in order for the ATS to effectively read your resumé or else it will bypass your application and move on. To avoid this, be sure to use a classic resumé format; no columns, no colored ink, no images or graphics of any kind. ATS compatible resumé formats can be downloaded from the internet.
- Use Key Words
Key Words will help get your resumé noticed. Look for key words and skills used in the description of the job you are applying for, such as Marketing Manager, Advertising Coordinator, Para-legal etc. These should appear in your Objective, if you are a recent grad or in your Professional Profile, if you are more experienced.
- Choose Recognizable Fonts
Fonts compatible with ATS include Arial, Calibri, Cambria, Garamond and Georgia.
- Update Your LinkedIn Profile
Once your resumé is constructed, edit your LinkedIn profile to reflect the same information, just serve up less bullet points. The goal is to prompt employers to contact you for your resumé. The headline under your name on your LinkedIn Profile should include the same key words as mentioned above. Also, be aware of the number of LinkedIn contacts you have. LinkedIn is the professional playing field, and you should be part of it. Those in the workforce for several years should have 500+ contacts. Recent grads should work on growing contacts;150+ is impressive.
- Research & Apply
For job research, use Indeed.com because it is an aggregator of jobs. However, I don’t recommend using it to apply for jobs. The better choice is to apply directly through the company’s website. I highly recommend signing up for job alerts, which are offered on several job search platforms, including LinkedIn.
- Do Your Homework
Before an interview, spend time on the company’s website, then go beyond. Check out business news outlets to possibly uncover recent occurrences and go to LinkedIn to research the person you will be interviewing with. Knowing their background will help with your approach to the interview.
- Prepare Your Responses
You would be amazed at how many people neglect to do this. Plan out your answers to commonly asked questions. Recent grads: Tell me about yourself. What is your ideal job? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Why do you think our company is a fit for you? Experienced Execs: Why do you want to leave your current position? What motivates you? What would your supervisor say about you if I called him/her right now? How can you make a difference in our company? Communicate why they should hire YOU above all others.
- Land the Interview
My mantra is: The way to get a job is not by sending out resumés, it’s by getting interviews. Yes, you need to apply online and then you need to work hard to get the interview with the hiring manager. It’s not easy. You need to be creative, but there are lots of ways to get there.
- Follow Up
Did you know that 50% of candidates don’t conduct a follow up after an interview? FIFTY PERCENT! Isn’t that crazy? Differentiate yourself and send a concise, relevant and timely follow up after your interview. Be sure to include how you plan to contribute to the company’s goals.
- Look for a Job You Love
Don’t just look for a job. Look to connect with something you are passionate about. Being excited to go to work every day is crucial to a healthy and happy life. Prosper doesn’t mean “get by”. It means Thrive and Flourish. That’s my wish for you…to Thrive and Flourish. And it will happen when you find a job you love.
Mary Donahue Quinlan is Chief Executive Officer at Career Prep Consultants where she is a Job Search and Career Coach. For the past ten years Mary has also been Adjunct Professor for Careers and Internships at LIM College in New York City. For more information please email Marydquinlan@gmail.com or call (917)750-8815.
