Think beyond the CV

Practical tips for your job search

Note: This post was originally published on 7th January 2014.

As a student or recent graduate searching for a job it can sometimes feel like the odds are against you. With an average of 85 applicants per available position you have to go that extra mile to stand above the crowd.

There are however ways to easily differentiate yourself and avoid the common pitfalls giving you the maximum chance of landing a great job. The days where a CV posted to the CEO or HR department is enough to get a foot in the door are unfortunately a long way behind us. Whilst a good CV is certainly necessary there is plenty more you should be doing alongside it so here are a few tips. You need to be thinking beyond the CV.

Focus!

In the current job climate it can be easy to think that you can maximize your chances by taking a scattergun, blanket approach to your applications. In reality the decision makers are becoming very savvy at identifying candidates that are truly suitable for the role and want to work at their company versus those that are applying for the sake of applying. Tailor your CV to the role and company, research the company, the industry and the role you are applying for and portray your enthusiasm in your application. Check out our blog post on the importance of focus.

Network!

‘It’s not what you know, it’s who you know’.

In many cases this statement rings true when searching for a job. This isn’t to say that nepotism is big problem but often you are likely to come across much better in person that you are on paper. Find people that work in the company you are interested in working for, speak with the decision makers and try to get introductions from mutual contacts if possible. Business is done by people, so do all you can to make yourself known and show yourself in a positive light.

Get social!

91% of employers use social networks to screen candidates. We’re in a digital age and your profile online really does matter. The bad news is that the content you post on your social media profiles and anywhere else on the web could cost you a job so go ahead and clean up your profiles if needs be. The great news is that employers actually look very favourably on individuals that are engaged, can demonstrate a well-rounded personality, good communication skills and domain expertise. Clean social media profiles coupled with interesting content could seal the deal for you.

While each of these may not seem particularly groundbreaking they could make the difference and really do help to maximize your chances of landing a job.