It doesn’t pay to wait
If you’ve been networking for a while and are ready to apply to a specific organization, you should ideally do it before the job is posted, says Sweta Regmi, a certified career strategist from Sudbury, Ont.
“Build the relationship before you see a posting,” she says.
According to Regmi, fostering that relationship involves meeting with employees at the company, learning about opportunities and crafting a resume that is carefully aligned with the organization. She also suggests following the organization on Facebook and commenting on its announcements regularly, indicating your thought leadership.
“This shows the person is already engaged,” she says.
By being on an employer’s radar before a job becomes available, you’ll avoid the fate of so many applicants whose resumés are rejected.
“You want someone to advocate for you,” says Regmi. “You want to plant the seed.”
Sealing the deal
Sometimes networking for months isn’t always in the cards – especially if you want to suddenly change careers – or have been laid off. In cases where you’ve just seen a job posting that resonates, it’s not too late.
Here’s the best way to land that dream job.
Be a problem-solver: If you’ve already laid the groundwork and are seeking a specific position, it’s a good idea to target your resume to appear like the employee who can solve a particular problem, says Regmi. This can mean highlighting a unique set of skills you possess that the company could benefit from, or emphasizing experience in a previous role that could be beneficial to the company’s bottom line. In Regmi’s case, she had developed a system to reduce wait times on calls — which she knew would be seen favourably at her chosen firm.
Don’t worry about your qualifications: While many job postings list a daunting set of ‘required’ skills, that shouldn’t deter you from applying, says Jolene Watson, a professional speaker and trainer based in Saskatoon, Sask. She advises clients to apply for jobs where they can transfer existing skills and to highlight how these skills can be applied in the new role on their resumé. “Even if you don’t have the qualifications, show them you’re willing to learn and are curious,” she says.
Mirror your interviewer: The interview is the chance to show yourself in the best light, says Watson. “People like people who are like them.” She suggests speaking in a similar way to that person, having proper posture, using language they prefer, making eye contact from time to time and showing the palms of your hands, a gesture that instills trust. Visiting the workplace and noting what staffers wear at work can also guide you in what you wear to the interview. “If I’m pitching a company I wear the colour of blazer that matches their logo,” she says.
Be direct: If you’re in discussions for a job, “Be clear in your ask,” says Watson. “Know what you want and don’t be afraid to ask for it.” That might mean enquiring about another position the firm is hiring for that you feel would suit you better, or requesting a higher salary, if your experience calls for it.
Follow up: It’s a good idea to follow up with the hiring manager after the interview, identifying three action items that indicate you would be a good fit for the job, says Regmi. She suggests thanking the interviewer, mentioning what you’ve learned from the interview, and highlighting how your experience makes you a solid candidate. You might also want to personalize the email by mentioning a company development advertised on the firm’s Facebook page, to highlight your ongoing interest in the organization.
“You want to show you’re in it for the long haul,” says Watson.
