Are you on the hunt for your first job, or have you recently lost your job? Whatever the case, the job market can be extremely competitive, which makes the search for employment incredibly stressful. It’s getting more and more difficult to leave a lasting impression among potential employers, especially when so many other people are trying to do the same thing. Stand out from the crowd with these simple yet effective strategies to make yourself more marketable to employers.
Work on your online presence
With so many resumes to sift through, employers have to utilize alternative methods to eliminate unlikely candidates. One way they do that is to do a social media audit on prospective applicants. That is why it’s crucial to work on your online presence. Get rid of any incriminating social media posts or keep these accounts locked. Make sure you update your LinkedIn profile and set up a professional website to showcase your skills and services. A reputable firm that offers web design services can help you craft one that not only looks polished but also reveals a bit of your personality too.
Have complete certifications
Certifications can bolster your resume and make you more appealing to employers who are looking for more specific skills. There are thousands of certifications available for you to receive. You can narrow down your choices by researching the most common skill sets needed in your chosen industry and field, then opt for the relevant certifications. That will improve your chances of landing the job, and it also makes you more likely to receive a promotion or pay increase in the future.
Network with the right people
Take every opportunity to network with people who can get you to where you want to go. Job fairs, speaking engagements, and round table discussions are just a few networking opportunities you should take advantage of. These connections may serve as mentors who can give you advice on how to succeed in your chosen career path, or they can even hire you on the spot. Just remember that the best professional relationships should be symbiotic, and you should be ready to offer them something worthwhile too.
Volunteer your time
Most people’s resumes will boast about the same things: internships, professional experience, educational attainment, and grades. If you want to catch the attention of an employer who has to go through hundreds, if not thousands of these applications a day, then you should seek out volunteering opportunities. That is a great way to distinguish yourself from other applicants because it shows your charitable side and because you’re more likely to have a unique perspective on things due to your exposure to different experiences and people outside of your comfort zone.
Perfect your interview skills
It’s one thing to have a good resume, but if you can’t back it up with a great interview, that job is as good as gone. Polish up your interview skills by practicing with a friend, a family member, or a career coach. Don’t forget to be polite and think about your nonverbal communication skills too: smile, loosen up your shoulders, and sit up straight. Confidence is key.
Turn yourself into someone that potential employers would love to have on their team with these simple yet practical strategies
