Becoming a Savvy Applicant
Have you applied to a job even if the description didn't fit your
background or experience? With the current employment climate being
more competitive, it may be tempting to apply to positions even
when your qualifications don't really match the needs of the company.
Human resources professionals have the tedious task of looking
through many inappropriate resumes, only to find a few applicants
that are truly suitable for the position they are looking to fill.
Here are a few tips to maximize your efforts in finding a job.
Research the company
Once you have spotted an intriguing opportunity
and before you apply, do some research on the company. Find out
how large the company is, what type of work they do and who their
clients are. Many firms will also list projects and display photos
of their work on their web sites. If you like what they have
to offer, and can picture yourself working for them, go back to
the job description and take a closer look.
Make sure you are good fit for the position
Now that you have
decided that the company would be a good fit for you, review
the job description carefully. Although it may be easier to skim
through it, it is very important to read every detail. Companies
put a lot of time and effort into compiling this information in
hopes of attracting the right person for the job. If you are confident
that the position description represents you, your education,
skills and experience, apply for the job.
Follow directions
Most companies have a format in which they
wish to receive and review resumes. Double check the posting or
ad to see what their preferences are. If they specify "no
e-mails please," or "e-mail resume and salary requirements
to . ." be sure to do as they have requested. If you submit
your resume according to their directions, they will be in a neutral
light when reviewing your resume.
Resist temptation
After you have submitted your application,
you may feel tempted to call the company to ask the status of
their search. Unless the company fills the position, they will
review every resume carefully, and will contact the candidates
that they are interested in interviewing. Rather than worry about
one job, keep up the momentum of your search by continuing to apply
for suitable positions until you get that desired job.
Job hunting can be a tedious and taxing process. While you may
have applied for semi-suitable positions in the past, it would
prove advantageous to steer clear. Take the extra time to research
the company and apply only to the jobs that fit your qualifications.
By being a savvy applicant and following these few steps, you will
have a greater probability of getting interviews and eventually
landing a great job.
Source: Zweig White
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