With unemployment on the rise, there’s more competition for new jobs. How can you stand out in a sea of other candidates? There are many ways, but the first step involves your resume. You need a compelling one to get noticed. You also need to take a few actions before and after submitting your resume to increase your odds of an interview. To help you, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Attempt contact before sending your resume.
Before you submit your resume, do some homework to find out who the hiring manager is. Unless the job posting clearly states “no phone calls,” give them a call to express your interest in the opportunity and offer a few quick details as to why you’re a strong fit. Don’t focus on what you’re looking for too much; but rather, the employer’s needs and how you can meet them.
Follow up after you send your resume and cover letter.
In your cover letter, end it with an action statement, such as: “Please feel free to contact me at (your phone number here). In the meantime, I’ll follow up in the next few days to discuss the possibility of an interview.” If you don’t hear back from them within one business week, then reach out. Introduce yourself and say something like:
“I sent my resume about a week ago for ABC position. I’m very interested in the opening and wanted to touch base with you about next steps.”
You can also send an email if you’re more comfortable. Just make sure you reiterate what makes you an excellent fit for the role and how you can contribute to the team if hired.
Follow up again.
If you don’t hear back in a week, then follow up again in a similar way. Acknowledge that you understand the hiring manager is busy but that you’re ready to move ahead with an interview if they’re interested. In everything you say, whether on the phone or through email, always be polite and respectful, never pushy. If you still don’t hear back, it’s time to move onto another opportunity and invest your time and effort there.
Keep track of your resumes and contacts.
When sending out multiple resumes and making many phone calls, it can be hard to remember who you contacted and when. This is when a contact log can be helpful. You should keep track of when a job posting was published, when you applied, the dates you made contact with the hiring manager, and any notes on conversations you had. Your log should also include the names, companies, and contact information for the hiring managers you’ve applied with.
Get expert help.
If you’re applying to many jobs and not hearing back, it could be due to the positions you’re considering or the quality of your resume. Either way, let Future Force help. As one of the leading staffing agencies in Orlando, FL, we can make sure you have the right background and skill set for the position you want and put you on track toward finding job search success. We can also help in other areas, including polishing your resume and preparing for interviews, all, so you land your next dream job.