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Whoever said that looking for a job is a full-time job was absolutely right!
This process can be incredibly time-consuming, and there are times when you’ll feel like you’re doing everything right, but you’re just not getting any bites. This is especially true if you’re having a hard time landing a job interview.
You might spend hours perfecting your resume and sending it out to dozens of companies but still not get a single response. In fact, it’s estimated that roughly only 2% of people who apply for a job are invited to an interview.
So what’s the deal? Are they all hiring people from Ivy League schools?
Well, it’s not impossible to land an interview – you just need to know how to increase your chances of getting one.
How Can You Increase Your Chances of Landing an Interview?
Currently, finding a job is difficult. While there are many job postings online (LinkedIn Job Search currently has over 10 million), the odds of being invited for a job interview are still relatively low.
Take, for example, the numbers from Monster.com. The average job ad on the site receives roughly 320 applicants, out of which only a few are invited for an interview.
For well-known corporations like Google, it gets even worse. This technology behemoth will receive more than ten thousand applications every month for its 5,000 job openings, but less than one percent will be called in for an interview.
So how do you get a job interview in such a cutthroat environment? Continue reading for tips on how to get a job interview!
Tip 1: Apply Quickly After A Job Has Been Posted.
One of the best ways to increase your chances of getting a job interview is to apply as soon as a job is posted.
A recent study by iCIMS found that the most successful job seekers apply to a position within the first three days of publication. In fact, 45% of those who applied within that time frame were contacted by a recruiter, compared to only 18% of those who applied more than three days after the job was posted.
Naturally, the first one weeks after a job is posted will receive the most applications, but don’t let that deter you. Applying early shows that you’re interested and excited about the position, thereby putting you a step ahead of the competition.
So, if you’re interested in a job, don’t wait – apply as soon as possible! Your odds decrease if you apply for a position where the job posting has already been up for a month or longer.
Tip 2: Customize Your Resume to the Job Posting/Description
Recruiters are looking for a specific set of skills and qualifications, so it’s important to ensure your resume is a good match for the position you’re applying for. If you tailor and update your resume to each job posting, you’ll be more likely to catch a recruiter’s eye.
Keep in mind that most recruiters only spend an average of six seconds reviewing a resume. So, ensure that yours is a good fit for the position!
Highlight the skills and qualifications most relevant to the job, and be sure to use the same language used in the job posting. For example, if a job posting says that they’re looking for a candidate with “strong communication skills,” use that exact phrase on your resume.
Tip 3: Ensure Your Resume Is Correctly Formatted
Make sure your resume is free of any typos or grammatical errors and is clear & concise.
The truth is that when it comes to resumes, first impressions matter a lot. So use a modern resume template that is easy to read and looks professional. There are various resume formats that you can use, but the most important thing is to make sure it impresses the hiring manager at a glance.
If a recruiter can’t understand your resume or finds a mistake, they’re likely to move on to the next candidate. So, keep it well-formatted and easy to read, or you might miss your chance at a job interview.
Tip 4: Write and Attach a Cover Letter to Your Application
Here’s an interesting fact: including a cover letter with your job application can increase your chances of getting a job interview by 50%.
A cover letter gives you an opportunity to introduce yourself to a potential employer and explain why you’re a good fit for the position. So, when writing one, mention why you’re interested in the position and how your qualifications match the job requirements.
A well-written cover letter should show a potential employer that you’re a serious candidate and increase your chances of getting a job interview.
Pro tip: Avoid using generic cover letters — customize them for each job you apply to.
Tip 5: Check Out the Company’s Website and Research Their Culture
Researching a company helps you determine if you’re a good fit for the organization. What is their company culture? Do their values align with yours?
If you’re a good match for the company, you’re more likely to be invited to a job interview. So, spend some time on a company’s website before applying for a job. This will give you a better sense of whether or not you’re a great match for the company.
Networking with someone who works for the company is also a great way to learn more about what it’s like to work there.
Tip 6: Add Your LinkedIn Profile Link to Your Application
If you have a strong LinkedIn profile, add the link to your job application. This will help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of being invited to a job interview
If a recruiter sees that you have a professional profile, they’re more likely to view you as a serious candidate. Your LinkedIn profile is also a great way to show off your professional accomplishments and skills.
Just ensure your profile is up-to-date so that a potential employer can see your latest experience and qualifications.
Tip 7: Apply for the Jobs You Are Most Qualified For
It may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people apply for jobs they’re not qualified for. This is a waste of time and will only decrease your chances of being invited to an interview.
So, before applying for a job, make sure that you meet the minimum qualifications for the position. If a job posting says that a candidate must have a certain degree or experience, don’t apply if you don’t meet those requirements.
Go Kill It at the Interview!
Landing a job interview is no easy feat. However, don’t give up just yet. You can increase your chances by following the above tips.
While there’s no guarantee that you’ll get the job, you’ll have a better chance of impressing a potential employer and being asked to come in for an interview if you put your best foot forward.
Good luck!
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