Everyone is on the lookout for the key to a successful job search. For some people it’s a winning smile, for others it might be their perfect resume. The bottom line when it comes to finding your next big opportunity is selling yourself to prospective employers.
Not everyone is an expert at creating a sales pitch that opens doors to their dream job, but remember that your goal is to convince the hiring manager that you, and only you, are the best person for the job. It’s marketing, pure and simple. But if you fail to hit the right notes with your “customer,” you run the real risk that someone will do the job better.
Here are four ways you can really sell yourself to future employers while looking for your next job opportunity.
1. Differentiate Yourself
You will always be one of many other job candidates when applying for a position. Today’s job search is heavily influenced by digital applications, overwhelmed hiring managers and unqualified candidates who submit their application on the off chance that someone reads their resume. The key to succeeding when you are up against so much competition is to differentiate yourself. Make your resume stand out and catch the attention of the hiring manager. Consider submitting a color copy resume with a well-designed format to help you stand out from the crowd. Another good strategy is to look the hiring manager up on LinkedIn or introduce yourself in person if possible. Adding a face to a nameless list of qualifications will give you a leg up every time.
2. Know Your Customer
In the case of a job search, your customer is your prospective hiring manager and the company they work for. You need to know everything possible about the business, the job opening and the work that gets done on a regular basis in order to tailor your message to catch their interest. This means doing your research. Read the job description thoroughly. Research the company on the web and in the news. Reach out to professional contacts who can tell you more about the opportunity. Prepare yourself as much as possible for a conversation where you can say exactly what value you would bring to the company in question.
3. Don’t Sell Yourself Short
This can be surprisingly hard to do, especially for the quieter personalities. It can be tempting to let the resume and professional recommendations do all the talking, but a job search is not the time to be self-deprecating or overly humble. This company doesn’t know who you are or what you can do until you tell them flat out. Be honest, but also be aware of the skills and accomplishments you have and want to share with a new employer.
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If you are looking for your next job, partnering with a recruiter can be another way to increase your chances at success. Contact ESGI today to get started!
