One of my companies (Uncle Jack) is in the fortunate position of being able to add new staff to the team. In the last 12 months I’ve sifted through hundreds and hundreds of resumes & cover letters looking for the perfect candidates. In that time I’ve come across a few tips & trends, do’s & don’ts and a few obscure things along the way.
Here are my universal tips for job seekers from the perspective of the hirer:
- Seriously, there cannot be spelling mistakes in your cover letter. The experts don’t lie when they say it goes straight in the trash.
- Actually do a cover letter! It shows that you care about the role.
- Don’t be afraid to make your resume standout. I’ve given interviews to candidates just because their resumes were colourful, different, vibrant and they just simply stood out. Can someone please do a video resume? You’ll have my undivided attention for 3 minutes…
- You do not need a 4 page resume. Yahoo CEO, Marissa Mayer, condenses her impressive resume onto just one page. I think you can, too.
(See Marissa’s resume here) - If you’re applying for jobs on sites like Seek make sure you update your existing job title. If I’m shifting through 450 applications and your current job title says ‘Kitchen Assistant at KFC’ and you’re applying for a marketing job… I won’t even open it (no offence).
- If you get the chance to interview, come prepared. Have examples of your previous work, research the business you’re interviewing for and just be real.
- Please do not be cocky in an interview. I didn’t think this would even be a thing, but it is. Do not rock up to an interview with an arrogant swag. Just be confident and humble.
So there you go, 7 tips to think about when you’re applying for jobs.
Be noticed, be prepared and be humble.
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