5 tips to help your job application stand out

In your daily scrolling routine, do you depend on the headline of an article not only to grab your attention, but also for the point of the article in its entirety? News headlines seem to be getting longer to appease this habit, but this method is drifting into the job hunt. The job title may be talent acquisition’s version of a “headline”, but it's not where you should stop reading.

According to Indeed’s Career Guide, on average, employers look at a resume for 6-7 seconds*. This means that in under 10 seconds, your resume must precisely show how you are a qualified contender for an opening. While we would love to hire on passion and a will for learning, it’s just not always possible.

So how do you boost your visibility in the application stack? Here’s 5 recommendations that can help you stand out amongst the rest.

1. Thoroughly read the responsibilities and qualifications of the role and submit your resume based on that information.
2. A resume is a live document that is best when it’s constantly updated. Sometimes it’s beneficial to have multiple versions of your resume depending on the skill sets you possess and the job you’re applying for. The key here is to make sure your resume reflects the relevant experience and qualifications for the role you are applying to.
3. Avoid applying for jobs you truly do not qualify for.
4. Reach out to the recruiter directly or find a referral. If there’s a company that you really want to work for, but don’t see a job match, reach out to someone directly. LinkedIn is a great tool for this. We want people who want us! Most companies don’t post all of their openings, so it’s possible there is a position you may qualify for, but just don’t know about.
5. Recruiters are usually a direct link to the hiring manager. They can provide you with wonderful insight and guidance on modifications to your resume or interview tips. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Remember, the ultimate goal for everyone is to make the match between the candidate, the job and the company. 

*Indeed Editorial Team, “How Long Do Hiring Managers Look at a Resume?” https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/how-long-do-employers-look-at-resumes. Updated July 8, 2022/ Published June 8, 2021.