Making use of for jobs can really feel like shouting into the void — particularly whenever you don’t hear again. However in case you’ve ever questioned what’s truly going by way of a hiring supervisor’s thoughts as they learn your resume, we’ve received some behind-the-scenes insights to assist.
1. Tailor-made functions win each time
It’s tempting to ship the identical resume to each job, however generic functions are straightforward to identify. Hiring managers need to know why this function at this firm issues to you. You don’t must rewrite the whole lot from scratch — simply tweak the highest abstract in your resume and some traces in your cowl letter to indicate you’ve executed your homework.
2. Present, don’t simply inform
Saying you’re a “nice communicator” or a “crew participant” isn’t sufficient — again it up with actual examples. As an alternative of itemizing duties, spotlight your achievements. For instance: “Led a crew of 5 on a shopper mission that boosted retention by 20% in six months.” That offers a clearer image of what you’ll be able to truly do.
3. Hold it clear and easy
Your resume must be straightforward to scan, with clear headings, bullet factors (sure, hiring managers love them), and no pointless graphics or colors. Except you are making use of for a design function, keep away from fancy templates that may mess with utility monitoring programs.
4. Don’t skip the quilt letter (however preserve it quick)
Sure, cowl letters nonetheless matter. They’re your probability so as to add character, clarify a profession break or pivot, and present you perceive what the employer wants. However preserve it temporary — three paragraphs max. In case you’re making use of by way of FlexCareers, consider your cowl letter as a approach to spotlight how the corporate’s strategy to flexibility works for you.
5. Be prepared with examples for interviews
In case you’ve made it to interview, effectively executed! Now it’s time to prep. Most interviews will embrace behavioural questions like “Inform me a couple of time you needed to cope with battle.” The trick is to organize a couple of robust examples utilizing the STAR technique (Scenario, Job, Motion, Consequence), and apply saying them out loud in order that they move naturally.
6. Comply with up (with out overdoing it)
A fast, pleasant e-mail thanking the interviewer and expressing your curiosity can go a great distance. Only one message — no must comply with up a number of occasions. Hiring generally is a sluggish course of, particularly in massive organisations, however a well mannered follow-up reveals you’re eager {and professional}.
Whether or not you’re returning to the workforce, switching careers, or in search of your subsequent versatile function, little enhancements to your utility could make an enormous distinction.
Searching for roles that align together with your values — like flexibility and inclusivity? Begin with the employers on FlexCareers.
