How to Separate Yourself in a Down Hiring Market

by Marcus Ollig

In our previous enewsletter issue (March 2009), we examined several things you can do to improve your interview skills and to make every interview count. Remember thekey to a good interview is for both parties to uncover as much pertinent, accurate information as possible. Or as I mentioned last time: “Both of you are trying to determine whether or not the position to which you are applying is a good fit for you and for them. Only by matching your needs as well as theirs can a successful long-term relationship ensue.” But, the current recession is making it more difficult than ever to be granted an interview. There are fewer positions and a seemingly unlimited number of applicants to each open position. Therefore, in this issue, I want to offer some suggestions to make yourself stand out in a crowd and improve your chances to get that interview.

1. Leverage a search firm(s). Beyond simply applying to several firms, interview them and work with a firm that works to get to know you. Get to know your recruiter, stay in touch and make sure you update them on your search regularly. One-third of positions we fill each year at The Advocates are not to posted openings. While even the best firms don’t always have positions that match your qualifications, good search/staffing firms welcome the ongoing communication and that communication will keep you top-of-mind with your recruiter. Also, that person can act as a good career sounding board even for positions you uncover on your own.
   
   
2. Leverage your own network: This includes your school’s career services department, search firms/staffing professionals you have worked with, industry trade groups, other networking opportunities, and yes, your friends.
   
   
3. Informational interviews: Set up informational interviews with people in organizations you admire or who hold the type positions you have targeted. Your objective in meeting with people is to learn as much as you can about their role, their organization and to try to develop additional contacts with whom you can follow up.
   
   
4. Educate yourself: Read the newspaper, find out what is happening in your community and how it may affect your job search, and learn what you can do to further your goal. Stay abreast of developments in your industry through the web, pertinent publications, etc.
   
   
5. References: Don’t wait until you are interviewing. Ask for reference letters from past colleagues, supervisors and clients right now. They serve a dual purpose: you can utilize them to help market yourself and they can serve as a reminder of how great you are!
   
   
6. Excellence: Your materials should be clear, concise and targeted to each opportunity. No typos! No form letters, or at least no obvious form letters.
   
   
7. Work on your resume: Along with your other materials (cover letter, transcripts, references, etc.) it represents your brand. Again, work with an expert or utilize online resources to make it stand out and convey the right message. We can certainly assist with this. See the tips below.
   
   
8. Don’t send your resume to every posting you can find. Target the jobs that are aligned with your background, experience and career goals.
   
   
9. Follow up after sending your resume. Always call, don’t email.
   
   
10. Be a positive influence: Stay positive and enthusiastic in any and all interactions with any potential employer.
    
    
11. Work on interviewing: Check out our resources online. We offer a lot of tips that can help you improve your interviewing skills. Ask for coaching on difficult questions and practice!
    
    
12. Follow up after every meeting: Call, write a real cover letter with your resume, not a generic one, send a thank you note and try to stay in touch.
    
    
13. Believe in yourself: If you are looking for a job, this is an exceptionally difficult time. There is no shortage of bad news in the media every day and there are fewer companies hiring than before. Focus on yourself, on what you control and the benefits you bring to your next employer. You will find the right position.