If you are going to be successful when you apply for jobs, you need to understand the process, from finding the job vacancy to acing the interview.
It all begins with the job description. The job duties and responsibilities will determine whether or not you’re a good fit for the role.
If you can learn more about the process from the employer’s perspective you’ll increase your chances of getting your foot in the door to land your dream job.
Getting The Ball Rolling
Finding the best person for the job takes planning and preparation. They will go through a few motions before you will get to know about the vacancy. First, they will identify their hiring need, devise their recruitment plan, and then write the job description. As soon as they post the job vacancy, that’s where you come in.
The job description of a vacancy posting demands close attention. It will tell you a lot more about what a job role really is. A job title may sound out of your wheelhouse, but when you read the duties and responsibilities you may be a perfect fit. Hiring People give every business the opportunity to use powerful AI to generate unique and engaging job descriptions. These often give job searchers a better idea of the role and job duties than a job title can.
Each recruitment process is unique, so don’t be surprised when encounter something a little different from each potential employer. It is becoming more common for employers to use online resources for job applicants that can include a questionnaire or tasks to complete. The job market is competitive. Be prepared to encounter some interesting demands and to have to push yourself to get the job you want at the salary you deserve.
From Applications To Interviews
The first thing employers usually do is review resumes. This is where you get to show off your qualifications, experience, and skills. A good resume should highlight your most relevant experience and accomplishments, and showcase your skills and abilities. Employers also look for other factors when deciding who to interview. They may also consider your references and any letters of recommendation you have provided.
Another factor for employers to consider is your cover letter. Though some applications don’t require one, it can be a way to show initiative and introduce your personality. Well-written cover letters are an opportunity to show you understand the company and what they are looking for. Employers want to create a pool of applicants to interview, and you need to get into that pool.
It’s important that you tailor your resume to suit each job you apply for too. Demonstrate that you’re enthusiastic about the job and the company and understand the roles duties and responsibilities. Putting in this extra effort can massively increase your chances of landing an interview and hopefully, getting the job. The presentation of your documentation is as important as how you dress for an interview. Read over all your communications, cover letters, and resumes before you send them, and fix any typos or errors. A typo can be all it takes to put your application in the ‘no’ pile.
Interviewing The Candidates
Most interviewees focus too much on their own qualifications and forget to think about what the employer wants. The HR manager or recruiter wants to find an eager and available candidate with the skills and experience for the role and do it quickly. After all, hiring a great candidate is part of their job! They want to make smart business decisions that will impress their own bosses and make the company more successful.
You need to make yourself look like a smart decision. Your research should have taught you a lot about the business. Go in prepared to make the case for your employment by outlining how your skills suit the job duties and demonstrate that you have already taken an interest in who they are and what they do. Being memorable will help put you in contention for the role.
Most interviews are one-on-one, and will sometimes involve a short tour of the office or the department the role would be based in. Sometimes this will just be the first of multiple interviews and you may have to go through further rounds with other executives and members of the team. These can be intimidating, but remember that you have shown that you have what it takes to get this far. Approach panel style interviews with confidence.
Getting the ball rolling in the job application process requires preparation and attention to detail. Understanding the employer’s perspective and tailoring your application materials to suit the job and the company will have a huge impact on whether or not you get to the interview stage.
