1 – Match yourself to the job.  When you are reading and applying to job postings, there are plenty of responsibilities and requirements listed.  If you have the experience and skills, make it obvious and highlight them in your resume and cover letter.  Match up your experience and skills to their requirements, make it clear so there is no question why you are a fit for the role.

2- Use LinkedIn.  Create a LinkedIn profile, if you don’t have one.  This is where recruiters will find you.   Be sure your LinkedIn profile parallels your resume and be certain to include keywords in your profile that apply to the job you are seeking.  You want to be found by recruiters.  Make sure your profile is complete; include a headshot where you are smiling, join groups, ask for recommendations and recommend others, include all your accomplishments, volunteer organizations and show that you are involved by liking, sharing and commenting on other posts.  You want to be viewed as a whole person on LinkedIn, not just a job seeker.   Connect with as many people as possible (see #3).  Update and edit your profile (and resume) regularly.

3- Tap into your Network.  Not only apply for jobs that you see on-line but utilize your network and your LinkedIn connections.  Ask for referrals and connections at the company in which you are applying, see if someone can help you get your resume in front of the right people and help you get an interview.  It’s ok to ask for referrals, just make sure you offer to reciprocate and help that person now or in the future.

4 – Follow Up.  If you applied for a job and haven’t heard back from the recruiter or company, send a short email checking in on the status of your resume and the job.  If you received an interview be sure to send a “Thank you” email after the interview expressing your interest in the position.  It is always ok to follow up or check in on the status of the job once or twice during the process, especially if you don’t hear anything from the recruiter.

 

Good luck and happy job hunting!