In a crowded job market when so many people are unemployed due to COVID-19, how do you stand out from your competitors who are applying for the same job? There are a few things you can do to differentiate yourself and help you through this process:
1) Look at industries who are recruiting.
Although a lot of industries and businesses have been hit hard, there are certain industries who are recruiting and looking for staff. Have a look at where job ads are rebounding to help you with your search for a job.
Employment website SEEK show industries that are hiring include: Healthcare & Medical, Trades & Services, Information & Communication Technology, Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics and Mining, Resources & Energy.
You can also check out the Australian Government website Jobs Hub. Jobs Hub provides a list of current vacancies of employers who are currently hiring and jobs in the Australian Government.
2) Use your transferable skills in other industries.
Given the current circumstances, you may be applying for jobs in other industries that you would not normally work in. Think about the knowledge and skills you have gained which you can transfer to other jobs and industries that interest you; skills gained from work, school, hobbies, sports, volunteering etc. Examples of transferable skills which are required in every workplace are –
- Communication skills, both written and verbal
- Excellent customer service skills
- Being able to work as part of a team
- Problem-solving
- Reliability
- Being motivated
- Being adaptable and resilient
Review your skills and what you can offer an employer.
3) Customise your application to the job ad.
Do your research and ensure you have a cover letter attached to your resume.
Tailor your cover letter to the job ad and organisation you are applying for. This will demonstrate you have read the job ad thoroughly and researched the company you are keen to work for. In your cover letter highlight your experience, skills set and competencies the employer is looking for. Include five reasons why you believe you would be the best candidate for the job. The cover letter is equally as important as your resume as you want the employer to take the next step and read your resume.
Ensure your resume:
- Is professional looking and easy to read
- Is free of spelling or grammatical errors
- Clearly laid out with your work history, your experience, and your skills
- Lists your education, qualification, and training
- Includes your achievements, what you are really good at
Always make sure you have taken the time to prepare a good resume and cover letter for each job you apply for. It is the small details that may set you apart from the other applicants and increase your chance of having an interview.
4) Prepare for your interview.
- Do your research about the company. This will assist you to be more prepared to answer the interview questions and it shows that you are truly interested in the role.
- Prior to the interview, think about the questions you may be asked and rehearse your responses. What are your strengths and weaknesses? How can you add value to the company? What experience do you bring to this role? You want to speak confidently about yourself.
- Have your questions ready to ask at the interview. Research and review the company before the interview. Ask specific and relevant questions about the role and or the company. Show interest in the role. Don’t be afraid to ask what the next step of the recruitment process is.
- Due to COVID-19, chances are your interview will be conducted via Zoom or some form of video conferencing. If this is the case, ensure to test your technology before the interview. Does your sound and camera work?
- At the end of the interview, make sure to thank the interviewer for their time and the opportunity and that you look forward to hearing back from them.
To gain a deeper understanding of what employers look for from their staff and increase your chance of getting a job, sign up to Keyba Careers’ short online course. The first lesson is FREE, so why not Register Today? It’s the perfect time to increase your knowledge and skills so you are ready for the workforce!
