Job hunting can often be a stressful and daunting experience. You may find yourself competing against dozens or even hundreds of applicants, all vying for the same position. With so much competition, it’s important to stand out from the crowd. Here’s how.
Tailor your resume and cover letter
The first step to standing out on a job application is to ensure that both your resume and cover letter are tailored specifically to the job you’re applying for. This means doing your research on the company and the position, and changing the content of your resume and cover letter to match what the employer is looking for. Highlight skills and experiences that relate to the job description, and make sure your language and tone are professional and appropriate.
Quantify your achievements
Employers want to see results, not just responsibilities. Rather than simply listing your duties in previous roles, provide specific examples of how you’ve excelled in your work. Use metrics to quantify your achievements – for example, “increased sales by 20%” or “boosted website traffic by 50%”. This will give employers a clear, tangible idea of what you’re capable of achieving.
Be creative
If you really want to stand out from the crowd, consider adding a touch of creativity to your application. This could be anything from including a relevant infographic in your resume, to creating a video cover letter or a personal website showcasing your skills and achievements. While it’s important to maintain professionalism, a creative touch can show your enthusiasm for the role and demonstrate your ability to think outside the box.
Demonstrate your passion
Employers want to hire people who are passionate about what they do. When writing your cover letter or attending an interview, be sure to convey your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Show that you’ve done your research and understand the company’s values and culture, and explain why you’re excited about the opportunity to work there.
Get a referral
One of the most effective ways to stand out on a job application is to get a referral from someone who already works at the company. This could be someone you know personally or someone you’ve connected with on LinkedIn. A referral can increase your chances of being hired by up to 50%, as it gives employers a personal recommendation from someone they trust.
In summary, standing out on a job application requires a combination of preparation, creativity, and passion. By tailoring your resume and cover letter, quantifying your achievements, adding a touch of creativity, demonstrating your passion, and getting a referral, you can increase your chances of standing out from the crowd and landing your dream job.
