Looking for a job can feel daunting at times, even for experienced workers. There are countless other talented professionals in every industry vying for coveted positions, making it difficult for aspiring employees to stand out from the rest.
As an applicant, it’s crucial to hone skills that will increase your chances of being noticed by a recruiter. Below, 10 Forbes Human Resources Council members shared some of those skills that can help you stand out in any industry.
1. Written And Verbal Communication
No matter what job you are applying for, if you don't have strong communication skills, not only will it be difficult to get past the interview but it will be difficult to find success in almost any job. Written and verbal communication are equally as important too. Sharpen this skill and be on your way to success! - Lotus Buckner, NCH
2. The Ability And Desire To Learn
Show that you are constantly seeking out learning and new information. Be curious. Follow the thought leaders and trends in your industry on social media such as LinkedIn and other media outlets. Know your industry and what is happening beyond what you are doing in your day-to-day. Demonstrate you have purpose and passion in your work through your resume and professional social channels. - Alina Shaffer, LivingHR, Inc.
3. Thought Leadership
Outside of traditional networking, your professional online presence acts as your official agent with every post you make. One skill everyone can learn to help get noticed by recruiters (whether you're looking or not) is to regularly display thought leadership around industry topics. The key is to leverage your expertise by creating valuable content that promotes you without self-promotion. - Dr. Timothy J. Giardino, Cantata Health & Meta Healthcare IT Solutions
4. Networking
Networking opens up more doors than people can imagine, and it helps you become aware of jobs that aren’t posted online. In addition, when you’re recommended to a company by someone you’ve networked with, it’s often one of the best references you can possibly have. - Greg Furstner, SkillPath
5. Industry Knowledge
It is true that "your network is your net worth." However, read, research and analyze the market. Understand economic conditions and how it relates to open positions. This gives you an advantage when interviewing. It exhibits discipline, awareness and critical thinking abilities. Plus, it justifies an interview. Secondly, by joining online groups you can increase your network without a fee. - Patricia Sharkey, Sharkey HR Advisors
6. Automation
In order to stand out, you need to be ahead of the trends. Experience in and being able to talk intelligently about AI and RPA ( Robotic Process Automation) is important in any field to which you are applying. Ensure that you have some examples of how AI has streamlined a process, created efficiencies and delivered measurable results. Discuss what you were able to achieve by freeing up resources. - Sherrie Suski, Tricon American Homes
7. Storytelling
Often, candidates ramble or are light on examples of their capabilities. Candidates get noticed when they succinctly tell multiple stories showing their direct impact. Appropriately claim credit when due. Share unique stories with different interviewers. Provide data points and quantitative outcomes. Short, specific stories build credibility and will make candidates stand out. - Stacey Browning, Paycor
8. Resume Writing
Despite so much free and widely available advice, resumes are often poorly written. Keep them short (three pages maximum), use truthful but industry-standard job titles and make them achievement-led. A short introductory statement about your characteristics, soft skills or desired position will also really help. - Karla Reffold, BeecherMadden
9. Resourcefulness
Learn to be as resourceful as possible. Build out the capability to apply information, connect dots, figure things out and navigate barriers. There isn't a single role that does not require resourcefulness. Gain and grow this skill by taking on a complex problem to solve. Focus on gathering the right information, using existing information and leveraging your network to solve it. - Bianca McCann, Trifacta Inc.
10. Emotional Intelligence
Being intuitive and building your emotional intelligence to interact with all will always make an impression. When you are competing with several great candidates, your attitude and ability to adapt will differentiate you from the rest. This means that you have to be open to ideas and not be scared to try something new. One has to work and practice this regularly in all phases of life. - Abhijeet Narvekar, The FerVID Group
