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How to Enhance Your Job Application Process

Applying For A New Job

​Whether you’re currently on the job hunt or planning to begin your search in the coming months, we recommend taking a mapped out approach when applying to your next role. While the COVID-19 pandemic may have altered where and how we work, the process of searching for and applying to new jobs has remained unchanged for the most part, leaving many applicants in the application black hole. With this in mind, we’re sharing our top tips on how to better navigate the application process to help get you one step closer to landing your next job!

Tailor Your Resume, Cover Letter, and LinkedIn Profile Before Your Apply

The first and most important step when applying to new jobs is to ensure you are resume ready! Having a clean, updated resume and cover letter saved and easy to access will be key to your overall application success. When applying to open roles of interest, make sure you’re not simply submitting your general resume, but rather create a unique individualized version for each role you apply to. You’ll want to be sure to include the skills and qualifications you have that are also referenced in the job description, as these are things hiring managers and recruiters are going to look for first (as well as ATS systems that pick up on keywords).

 As with your resume, ensuring your LinkedIn profile is updated with your current and past work history, your skills and certifications, and a professional headshot is essential. With the ability to utilize features like “Easy Apply”, it’s best to think of your LinkedIn profile as a live version of your resume, so keep it continually polished and up to date.

Job Like or Lust?

When browsing the abundance of open roles out there, it’s easy to get carried away by all the potential open jobs that fit your skillset. While rapidly applying to jobs may increase your chances of hearing back from a potential employer, it ultimately ends up taking up a great deal of your time and often doesn’t provide a fruitful return. Instead, make sure the jobs you’re applying for check at least five of your primary “must-have” boxes including things like work flexibility, training & development opportunities, growth potential, salary requirements, etc. to help save time and create a more targeted search on your end.

Switch Up Your Job Search

If you’re only looking for and applying to jobs on sites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Indeed, it’s likely that you’re seeing the same jobs as thousands of other applicants. Rather than taking the same approach as others, switch up where you’re conducting your search. Utilizing job boards through staffing agencies like 24 Seven will help you unearth new open jobs that may not be posted elsewhere. Plus you can filter based on location, remote work flexibility, title, industry, and more. In addition, when you browse and apply to jobs on a recruitment agency job board, the recruitment team has the opportunity to reach out and discuss other potential roles that may be a strong fit for you and your background.

Don’t Forget to Network

While you’re applying to jobs, take the extra step to connect virtually with potential employers and hiring managers. This can be as simple as reaching out via LinkedIn with a brief introduction about yourself along with a note expressing your interest in the open role and company you’re applying to. When sending messages to potential connections, it’s important to not be overly pushy or demanding, but rather using this as an avenue to have an introductory conversation that could be beneficial for both parties involved. Being respectful and professional here is key.

Do Your Research

With a plethora of open jobs available, it’s easy to see yourself as a potential fit with many of the companies currently hiring. Rather than instantly aligning yourself with every company your come across, set aside time and do your research before you begin the application process. Dig deeper to explore things like the company’s mission and vision, where they donate their time and money, what products they sell or manage, and what their overall driving goal is as an organization. Ultimately, you’ll be happier and more aligned with the company if you feel passion and purpose behind what they do as well.

Work with a Recruiter

If you feel you’ve hit your limit by applying to jobs on your own, it might be time to consider working with a recruiter! Our recruiters at 24 Seven are industry experts, with a strong pulse on what companies and hiring managers alike are looking for in their next candidate. If you’re ready to land your next dream job without having to fill out hundreds of applications, browse our open jobs and register as a candidate today – we can’t wait to work with you!