Tips for Job seekers: How to stand out from the crowd

So, you’re looking for a new job. Great! So is everybody else!

These days, especially in the technology world, there is so much competition, it can be hard to stand out from the crowd. But don’t be discouraged! With a few small tweaks to your job-seeking approach, you’ll be a head of the rest!

Be Picky

When you’re starting out looking for new employment, spend some time finding the right fit for your skillset. Avoid sending out tons of resumes to tons of places. Less is more, so be picky on where you apply.

Most job seekers create a one-size-fits-all resume, and a one-size-fits-all cover letter. But what they fail to see is that savvy employers are looking for much more than a living resume-- they want to find a person who truly shines, stands out, and who will bring something new and innovative to their team.

By selecting just a few places to apply at first, you establish value for yourself and your abilities.

Be Creative

When crafting a resume, uniquely tailor its tone and tenor to the company. Do an initial assessment: Is the company new or a start-up? Is it an established organization or corporate? Is it a small team or a robust organization with a spanning hierarchy?  Get a feel for the company culture-- it will in turn will help you craft a custom resume that speaks their language.

Moreover, study the job description: does your skill set actually fit? Say you’re more the developer type and the job you’re looking for is looking for a growth hacker; can you squeeze into the mold or are you better off sticking to what you know?

It’s great to expand your skillset and horizons, but don’t overreach so far that you’ll be dipping your toes in a pool better suited to other candidates. You want to stand out from the crowd as being the best at what you do rather than swimming up stream.

Be sure to draft a well-crafted cover letter. A great cover letter is essential for getting your foot in the door. Don't be fooled by other advice sites that claim employers don’t read cover letters - malarky!

Hiring managers and employers appreciate the personal touch; find out who’s doing the hiring or screening process and tailor a well-written - and thoroughly edited- cover letter that summarizes your skills, promotes your special qualities, and outlines what you can bring to the table. Be confident: speak your truth, know you are the best person for the job, and don’t be afraid to state it!

Be Patient

Finally, be gracious. At the end of the day, you’ll want to make sure that the hiring manager knows you appreciate their time, as finding a new hire can be a lengthy and often difficult process. Be patient while you wait for callbacks and correspondences. Putting your best face forward in the job seeking process is the best way to get your foot in the door!