Today’s job market is still largely considered to be in the favor of the employer. Businesses can be choosy about their hiring decisions because of the large number of very qualified applicants available to them. This means the average job seeker needs to do all they can to stand out to employers in order to get the job. Flexibility and customization seem to be the key phrases job seekers need to know in today’s market. Do what you can to tailor your experience to fit each company to which you apply and you will be in a better position to potentially move on to the next step in the process. Here are several ways to consider doing this as you continue to polish your job search.
- Do the right homework. Everyone knows that it is important for a candidate to research the company prior to an interview, but take this one step further. Look at the company from the specific perspective of “What can I bring to the table?” Be very precise about how you can add value to their organization.
- Focus your introduction. The elevator speech is also a common tool in the job seeker’s tool belt, but it is important to define yourself in a way that makes sense with the company’s needs and values. Use the job description from the posting and your research to craft something that is specific to the company’s own mission.
- Use examples. When you’re asked questions about your performance, skills and abilities don’t just respond with short answers. Provide detailed examples targeted to their company and business. You want to prove to them that you have all of the experience they are looking for so they do not need to look any further. Be honest about your experience, but be detailed and specific.
- Adaptation. Customizing your answer to fit the specific needs of the interviewer is imperative to be seen as a candidate for the position. Once again, keep in mind that companies are interviewing more candidates per job opening today than ever before and you want to be the one who stands out. By avoiding the generic answers and placing yourself within the context of the business you will be giving yourself the advantage.
Your job search should not exist in a bubble. If you’re looking for someone to help you along the way, contact Harvard Resource Solutions today!
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