People have different reasons for accepting jobs. Sometimes you’ll take just any job as long as it helps build your resume and skills. However, some people apply for and accept positions they want to stay at long-term. Getting the job you really want can not only make you happier but also maximize your long-term prospects of success.
Getting that job can happen quickly or take time, depending on the role and the industry you’re hoping to work in. This article shares some steps to help you get that job. They include doing research on the company, considering the daily tasks you’ll be responsible for, preparing for a background check, and convincing the hiring manager you’re well-rounded.
Even if everything else is perfect, a background check can make all the difference. This article has some excellent tips for passing a background check.
Consider your needs and wants
Consider the industry overall, but also the concrete position. If there is something you’re personally passionate about, you might want to pursue it in your work. Think about the training and skills that could support your candidacy. Considering the perfect employment position can help identify preferences.
Do research
Applicants that appear attractive on paper are well-prepared, and they also do well in interviews. Do not apply blindly. Check the company’s reputation and what responsibilities are associated with it.
Stay current on the sector. Check the company’s website and read the value or mission statement in particular. This will show what’s important to the organization.
Consider daily responsibilities
Some people like traveling for work and working with others. Others would rather work alone. Rank your preferred work activities by priority. There could be some you’d really enjoy and would even be unhappy if they weren’t part of the job.
Check your online footprint
Today, people have access to more information online than ever before. Your potential employer might get an impression of you before actually meeting you in person. Check your social network accounts and get rid of posts that someone might find questionable. Make sure your information on professional platforms like LinkedIn is current.
Social media information and other information available online tends to come up in formal and informal background checks. On that note, be ready to talk about any issues in your past that might surface. You’ll seem trustworthy if you provide clarity and further details. It would be very helpful to run a self-background check in advance, so you know what your prospective employer will see.
To make sure the results are accurate, hire a specialized screening service. You only need to do this once. You’ll be prepared for any interviews in the future.
Learn more about the job
Make an effort to learn more about what the job involves, including skill expectations, experience level, and education requirements. If you can, work on the skills required to help you prepare to apply. Make a plan for how to fulfill any educational requirements for the position, such as undergoing training or getting a certificate.
Show that you’re well-rounded
The majority of employers value experience more than education. The initiative, motivation, and soft skills, in general, can improve your chances of getting hired. Studies show just 15% of employers find that hard skills are enough to make a hiring decision.
This isn’t to say education doesn’t matter. Just don’t forget that the well-rounded candidate will get the job.
Your resume should reflect the job ad
Write a persuasive, engaging cover letter and tailor your resume to reflect the job description. Send it along with the other application documents if you did a project to showcase your abilities and skills further.
Be specific about experience and skills when preparing your application materials. If the job description says they are looking for motivated team players, use those words in your documents.
Prepare a short pitch and get an interview
Think about how you’ll convince them you’re the best candidate for the job. Practice the pitch in advance to ensure confident delivery.
If you didn’t get invited to an interview, invite yourself. Ask for an impromptu meeting to get more information about what the organization is looking for.
