Standing Out in Competitive Applications

The entry level and graduate job markets are increasingly competitive with many graduates without work after university. As much as this is a daunting thought, there are ways of dealing with the extremely competitive environment. When it comes to filling a position, employers are looking for a range of skills and direct interest in addition to the qualification. Over the past couple of years companies have commented on poor job applications and the lack of employability skills among possible recruits: how they flunk at job interviews, lack the ability to take part in team work and have questionable communication skills. These are skills absent from many curriculum activities requiring graduates and others chasing competitive roles to show initiative in gaining additional skills to have their true talents noticed. Here are some tips to stand out from the crowd:

      Diversify your experiences

      Your qualification may not be enough to make your application stand out; but internships, volunteer work and work experience will expand and develop professional skills that are not typically taught at school. Employers see these points as an extra step you have taken to kick start your career in an area you are highly interested in.

      Tailor your resume and cover letter 

      Employers know when you are sending out a generic application. But applications that are specific to the job demonstrate your knowledge about the position and your initiative in researching more about the company.

    

      Research the company 

      Think of questions to ask your interviewer. Researching the company allows you answer questions in a way that relates to the company’s goals. In regards to asking them questions, there is nothing worse than saying “no” if they ask you whether there is anything you want to know about the interviewer or the company.  Saying “no” means you have missed the opportunity to make a positive impression on the employer by using the information you have obtained to summarise why you are the best candidate for the job and showing interest in the organisation.

        Make Networking your Hobby 

      It is important to build your professional community and connect with people within your industry. This includes past classmates, co-workers, association committees, university lecturers and tutors.  Networking will strengthen relationships, provide you with fresh ideas and expand your opportunities. Don’t forget to make clear what you are looking for and what you want to achieve, you never know when a like-minded professional has golden advice or a contact for you.