Today, I’d like to share a few key tips I regularly offer my clients to help them improve their success in the job market. There are plenty more, and happy to provide any direct assistance that you might need to improve your search strategy.
- Define Your Target Before You Apply
Don’t just apply to everything. Take time to understand the job market. Review multiple job ads to identify where your skills align best. Look beyond job titles and focus on matching specific industries, products, and processes. A focused, targeted approach will get better results than a generic one.
- A/B Test Two Versions of Your Resume
A/B testing is commonly used in marketing, but it works for resume writing too. Create two or three versions of your resume, each tailored to a different type of role. Apply to a range of positions and keep track of which version you used for each. See which one gets more responses and use that to guide your future applications.
- Reach Out Directly to Employers
Many roles receive 400 to 600 applications. In reality, recruiters may only review the top 10 to 20 percent. Instead of relying solely on your online application, identify key contacts at the company using LinkedIn and send a message. Let them know you’ve applied and are genuinely interested in the role.
- Leapfrog the Job Market, Work LinkedIn Like a Pro!
LinkedIn remains a powerful way to uncover hidden job opportunities. The key is to go beyond the ‘Apply’ button. Identify companies you’re interested in, find key decision-makers, and send a polite, personalised message asking about potential openings. You can also request referrals, as many are happy to help if approached respectfully. Once referred, follow up to strengthen the connection and improve your chances.
- Target Your Cover Letter (for Specific Roles)
Yes, cover letters are still a thing. Unfortunately, too many candidates simply repeat their resume in the cover letter. Instead, for roles you’re genuinely excited about, write a letter that speaks directly to the job ad. Highlight your specific skills and experience that match the role, and remove anything that doesn’t add value. Make it sharp, relevant, and personalised.
- Don’t Get Caught Out by the Recruiter Phone Screen
Many candidates stumble early in the job application process. They do all the hard work but then forget which role they applied for or sound unprepared when the recruiter calls. If you get caught out of the blue and can’t remember which role it is, be honest and ask for a quick recap. Don’t try to bluff it. Stay sharp by regularly rehearsing your key selling points so you’re always ready to make a strong first impression.
- Keep Ahead of ATS Systems (Next Generation)
Applicant Tracking Systems, or ATS, are widely used by employers to manage and filter candidate applications. Many now include advanced AI-powered algorithms that assess applicants against a broad range of matching criteria. This shift is a challenge for those still using generic resumes. However, candidates who take a more tailored, role-specific approach, as outlined in Step One, are much more likely to stand out and achieve better results.
If you’d like more tips or guidance to improve your job search strategy, feel free to get in touch. And if you have any tips of your own to share, I’d love to hear them too.
