As any recent college graduate knows, finding a job in a competitive market is a test of endurance and patience. That compounds when you talk about landing a dream job. It seems like there are both endless possibilities just a few clicks away and also no jobs to be found anywhere. Yet, for those with the necessary skills and gumption to get through the application process, finding a dream job in 2019 is possible.
To do so, you need to set yourself apart from the competition. So, what methods of presenting yourself as a unique and highly valuable asset to a company are more effective than others?
To help, 12 members of Forbes Human Resources Council shared several hard-to-beat ways job seekers can rise above their competition to snag the attention of companies they want, and hopefully land that dream job.
1. Be Authentic
Being authentic in every way is real stand-out quality in a job seeker. This starts with a resume that gets to the true essence of what someone is good at and really passionate about professionally and continues with every interaction and conversation with a potential employer. Authenticity paves the way for both job seekers and organizations to make great matches and ensure a strong cultural fit. - Alina Shaffer, LivingHR, Inc.
2. Do Your Homework
Candidates can stand out from the crowd during the interview by having done their research about the company and preparing a list of questions for the interviewer. It can be very obvious to the interviewer which candidates have taken the time to do their homework and prepared in advance for the interview. In addition, showing enthusiasm and passion during the interview can make candidates shine. - Debi Bliazis, Champions School of Real Estate
3. Have A Focused Passion
Candidates who are focused and passionate about their profession or career make a bigger impression than someone looking for the next bigger paycheck. In reviewing resumes, I like to see someone who has a progression from one position to the next and where the career path to the job I'm offering aligns with their goals. These folks clearly communicate why your company and why now. - Tracy Bittner, SPHR, Ionic Security Inc.
4. Network With Industry Pros
Those who network with others in their chosen field will often fare better in the job market than those who don’t. While knowledge and past experience are important, job seekers can’t apply to jobs they don’t know exist. Connecting with as many people in their industry as possible, both online and in person, increase job seekers’ chances of finding their ideal role when it becomes available. - John Feldmann, Insperity
5. Talk To Customers Prior To The Interview
The best candidates do homework on the interview panel and the company. Candidates stand out when their research extends to the company’s customers or typical buyers. Only a few extra calls to learn more can set a candidate apart from other applicants. Regardless of the role, applicants should internalize research, and share how their skills can benefit the true mission of an organization. - Stacey Browning, Paycor
6. Call To Follow Up
It's so simple but very few people take the time to follow up with a call after making an application, at any seniority level. It is more common for candidates to not even remember where they have applied. Show you are proactive and interested in the role by taking an extra few minutes to let the person recruiting know you really want to get the job. - Karla Reffold, BeecherMadden
7. Be A Good Storyteller
I continue to be amazed how few job seekers are good storytellers. During interviews, they should be able to relate how they identified an opportunity or work challenge, strategically determined a course of action and overcame obstacles to achieve the desired result. Those who can convert their experiences into effective storytelling with data-driven ROI will beat their competition. - Genine Wilson, Kelly Services
8. Don't Be Afraid To Say "No"
Many job seekers are in a hurry to find a new position. Take your time researching jobs and company culture to make sure it is a good fit for you in the long term. Don't be afraid to say no to an offer if you find another position more fitting. Job seekers often jump at the first offer to secure a job but find themselves unhappy in their position. Be patient and you will find your dream job. - Tiffany Jensen, Pure Grips
9. Show Value
As a big advocate of employer value propositions, I am also a believer in employee value propositions. If you really want to land that dream job it is critical you understand your own value proposition. Being able to articulate those values and matching them to the needs and culture of the employers you are targeting will be the keys to landing that dream job in 2019. - Peter K. Murdock, Blackmon Mooring/BMS CAT
10. Make Your Case
Standing out means more than noting that the culture or the work being done is a fit. Going deeper — networking with current employees, following social channels and reading everything you about the business, what it does and is trying to do — is essential. Then connecting that to what job seekers are bringing to the table and making the case for their fit is a sure way to stand out. - Sara Whitman, Hot Paper Lantern
11. Optimize Your Resume For AI
My advice for landing a job is optimizing your resume or CV to get past any algorithm screening software. Insert relevant keywords for the jobs you are applying to and make sure the content AI can read your format. Additionally, avoid using unusual job titles that an algorithm can’t identify. Don’t say “brand warrior” when you mean “account manager.” - Michele Markey, SkillPath
12. Be Intentional In Your Search
A job search is often motivated by a catalyst that creates urgency for a job seeker. Urgency can prevent a candidate from authentically evaluating how an opportunity aligns with broader professional goals. Taking the time to be intentional when searching for a job will result in better alignment between an opportunity and candidate skills. That match will separate a candidate from the competition. - Kelly O'Connell, ON ITS AXIS
