I Need a Job: How Do I Get an Interview?
Simply Hired Staff
It’s an unfortunate reality of being an adult that in order to have a roof over your head, food to eat and, in general, just live you need to be able to earn income. We’re not talking millions of dollars, right out of the gate. For newcomers to the job market or those that have an extended period of employment, any job interview is seen as a welcome sign that you’re moving in the right employment direction. But what to do if you’ve thrown your resume out there but still aren’t getting any interview bites? Read on for some handy advice!
Cast a Smaller Net
While it may make sense in fishing to dredge the largest body of water possible, in the job-hunt market it’s the less-intuitive approach that often nets better results. Carefully review your education, experience, and specialized qualifications. Spend your time, energy and other limited resources looking for jobs that match up well with your individual traits. This may mean that you end up applying for fewer jobs but your chances of getting in the door with an interview will increase exponentially.
Spruce up that Resume
If you’ve been sending your resume out into the big, scary, employment-seeking world with lackluster response, it may be time for a quick revamp or a complete overhaul. With a few exceptions, most modern employers expect resumes to convey the relevant information in a page or less. Be sure that your critical info such as employment history, education, and relevant skills are all clear and concise. If you’re in need of space, consider removing old or outdated info such as clubs or extracurricular activities from high school or college or irrelevant, short-term, or seasonal jobs from early in your career.
Target Those Keywords
Once you’ve ensured you’ve got the skills and the resume you need to apply for the job you want, make sure the information you convey is matching up with the language your target career or position is using. Review job descriptions for the most relevant keywords for your field. Work these into your resume or other correspondence so that they pop on an initial review by potential employers. Don’t forget to peruse our article dedicated to the resume keyword topic for additional and more in-depth advice.
Sell Yourself with a Cover Letter
A professional resume isn’t the only way to let potential employers know you’re the perfect candidate for the position. If the job listing gives the option, be sure to include a well-written, brief and information packed cover letter, especially when submitting a resume online. A quality cover letter is a great way for an employer to feel out your practical skills and professional communication is high on every HR manager’s wish list. Ask a friend to proofread your cover letter for mistakes or grammar issues and be sure to read, re-read and then read again out loud for the best chance at success.
Mind Your Social Media Manners
If your resume and cover letter are in order and you’re applying for jobs in your skillset, it might be worth taking a look at your social media accounts for any potential red flags. In our increasingly connected digital world, hiring managers will often take a few minutes to peruse the professional and social networking pages of potential candidates. Sure, that wild girl’s night out may have been harmless weekend fun, but it doesn’t exactly instill confidence in your new potential boss. Keep these sites locked down with security to friends and family or, better yet, keep any potential questionable posts or images tucked firmly away on your private phone or email.
We’ve given you the tools you need; it’s time for you to get to applying and landing those interviews for the job of your dreams.
Article Updated from the Original on October 14, 2017
