Job Seeker Tips #3: Be Smart When Applying

So now that you know what you want and you’ve worked on your resume it’s time to start applying for jobs. But be careful – the application process is where many candidates have the most difficulty.

You can ensure you’re putting your best foot forward by following these guidelines:

• Don’t flood a company with applications. Applying to 50 jobs at one company doesn’t make you look eager – it makes you look desperate and unfocused. Most companies have a central recruitment function (with a centralized database) which stores information for all candidates, so applying to only one or two positions will ensure that you’re ‘in the system’ and will be considered for relevant positions as they become available. (Also, in most cases you shouldn’t apply to a company more often than once every 3-6 months.)
  
• Improve your chances by identifying yourself as a diverse candidate. Many organizations have diversity hiring mandates or programs – so they’re actively looking for diverse candidates. Having the required skills and experience for a role is, of course, fundamental; identifying yourself as a diverse candidate can give you an extra advantage. Applying for jobs through Talent Oyster is a good way to let potential employers know that you’re a ‘diversity’ candidate and ensure they take a second look.
  
• Make sure your resume and profile is viewable to employers. Not all job opportunities are posted online or publicly – when they’re looking for specific skills and experience, many employers and recruiters search resume databases (such as Talent Oyster) to find candidates. So ensuring that your resume and profile are complete and current will help make sure recruiters and employers find you the next time they’re looking for someone with your skills and experience.
  
• Networking, introductions and referrals are very valuable. There’s an old saying: When it comes to looking for a job, it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. An introduction, recommendation or referral from someone the employer or recruiter knows and trusts can make sure your application goes to the top of the list. In our next entry, we’ll be looking at how to build, manage and leverage a network; in the meantime, start networking by making sure your friends, family and colleagues know you’re in the job market – you never know when one of them will hear about an opportunity and can recommend or refer you!