6 Simple Ways to Stand Out in Any Job Search
These are timeless...
The Job Market has never been this competitive.
Following COVID, many people wonder if are there any jobs available. I recently graduated in May 2023 and saw just how competitive it was. Even recent MBA graduates are struggling to find jobs. However, I was able to separate myself from the crowd by employing these 6 tips.
These tips aren't exclusive to one industry; they're applicable across all fields-from finance to advertising.
This is how you will stand out in the crowd.
1. Tailor your skills to match job requirements.
With an aggressive job market, you need to be so good that they can’t ignore you.
Companies are searching for candidates who have functional knowledge. They’re able to apply their skills to any work situation and have a holistic grasp of the industry.
When I was looking for a job in Real Estate, I knew I wanted to become a financial analyst. So what did I do to practice?
Every day from 9 am to 5 pm I built financial models until I felt that I already had the job. From understanding market analytics to financial modeling and property valuations. When it was time for the interview, I did not get one question wrong. I knew everything there was about the job position and the Industry.
No matter the industry you want to work in, devote your time and energy to mastering every skill in that field.
2. Upgrade your Resume
Consider your resume as your job-seeking passport.
It's the initial impression a recruiter gets when they see your name. Ensure your formatting is flawless, and your experience mirrors the job specifications. For instance, Pro Forma Financial Modeling should be all over your resume if you want to be in the Real Estate industry.
Here are 3 tips:
Choose the Right Template
Selecting the perfect template is the first step in your resume revamp. Look for high-quality templates that suit your industry and resonate with your personal style.
Optimize Keywords
These industry or role-specific terms are what recruiters scan for in resumes. Start by identifying these from the job descriptions of your target roles.
Showcase Prior Experience
Include any volunteer work, part-time roles, or other activities that align with your desired field.
3) Be active on Linkedin
An active LinkedIn profile is a gateway to opportunities.
With strategic use of industry-specific keywords and an engaged presence, you become a beacon for recruiters. Job recruiters will see your industry knowledge through your posts, your expansive connections, and your well-crafted resume.
They will love you.
Start by identifying and integrating top keywords for your industry into your profile and posts. Engage actively by sharing your insights, commenting on posts from companies you admire, and expanding your network. Do this every day.
Connect with past colleagues, and schoolmates, and join industry groups. Each interaction is a chance to learn, to be seen, and to open doors to new opportunities.
Your LinkedIn presence is an investment in your career - make it count.
4) Be social in your industry
The name of the game is Connections. Without them you are nothing. In order to get funding you need connections. In order to get a promotion you need connections. In order to get a job you need connections. See the pattern here?
Here are a few strategies to establish and foster these relationships:
Industry Events: Attend conferences, seminars, webinars, and workshops related to your industry.
Professional Groups: Both online and offline professional groups can be a source of valuable connections.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your industry for a casual chat or a formal informational interview.
Volunteer or Intern: Offering your skills for free temporarily, either as a volunteer or an intern, can open doors to permanent opportunities and help you establish long-lasting professional relationships.
Alumni Networks: Connect with graduates from your school who are now working in your target industry.
Work every day to create a new relationship in your future industry. Play the game.
5) Develop your mindset
Being suitable for a role doesn't necessarily mean you have the best credentials or the connections. Most roles are chosen because the candidate is just the right person. How you transform into that right person is through your mindset. Begin by cultivating a positive mindset and envision yourself excelling in the role. Your mind changes the way you behave. Every day be grateful for the opportunity to learn for your new job and feel like the top candidate.
This approach will set you apart from other candidates.
If you enter the interview radiating confidence and industry knowledge, it will create the impression of a seasoned professional, giving you a fiery edge over every candidate.
6) Use Nootropics
Nootropics, in simple terms, are substances that can enhance brain function. They're often called "brain boosters" or "cognitive enhancers" because they can aid in improving memory, focus, and learning speed. You’ve probably heard of Bankers taking Adderall and Modafinol in order to grind out a late-night project. Although these medications can be useful in the short term, longevity is the key. Nootropics are a safe and sure pathway to upgrade your mind and body.
The idea is that by taking Nootropics, you can learn and retain information quicker by strengthening specific neural pathways in your brain. This could reduce brain fog, give you more mental clarity, and provide a cognitive edge over others.
Here are some of the top nootropics out today.
Caffeine: Known for improving alertness and reducing fatigue.
L-Theanine: Often paired with caffeine, it promotes relaxation without drowsiness.
Creatine: Usually associated with physical performance, it also aids cognitive function.
Bacopa Monnieri: An ancient herb used for improving memory and reducing stress.
Rhodiola Rosea: Commonly used for increasing energy, stamina, and mental capacity.
Nootropics are highly beneficial for tasks that demand cognitive function, verbal fluency, and performing complex work tasks.
Qualia Mind is my favorite of all time. It packs a cognitive punch like nothing on the market.
Like I said at the beginning of the article. Getting a job isn't solely determined by the prestigious schools you went to or the influential connections you made.
It's about the effort you put in.
Much Love,
-Jack