With such a large number of applicants applying to job openings, it can prove difficult to grab the attention of a recruiter.
With the average recruiter spending only 8 seconds on each CV, you need to give them a reason to look closer.
Here are a few ideas on how to do exactly that.
1. Ensure your CV is clear and concise
The most vital tool in grabbing the attention of a recruiter is your CV. This should be simple, well designed and easy to follow. The recruiter will see hundreds of resumes, so it is important that you demonstrate why you would be the perfect fit for their vacancy. Ensure you include your experience, education and skills, along with information that will make you stand out against other candidates. A quick glance at the C.V. should give the recruiter everything that is required to determine that you would be perfect for the job.
2. Tailor your CV to each specific job role
Constructing a generalised CV does nothing to demonstrate to the recruiter that you can meet their specific job requirements. You should tailor your CV to the specific vacancy you are applying for, by determining which skills are most important for the role in question and include them prominently in your CV.
3. Use social networking
It is all well and good perfecting your CV and interviewing skills, however you don’t want to shoot yourself in the foot with your social networking profile. Recruiters spend a great deal of time on LinkedIn and other platforms, you should ensure your profile is polished and up to date- and bringing the right kind of attention from recruiters. Your headline is the first thing a recruiter see’s when they find you on LinkedIn- does this make them want to open your profile?
4. Use key words
Think about the key words a recruiter may search for when searching online for a candidate for their role. Read through the job description to locate these powerful keywords. Be sure your profiles and social accounts are coordinated in this effort with strong keyword-driven headers.
5. Be prepared!
Develop your self-awareness and make the effort to learn about your own strengths and weaknesses. Make sure you have researched the type of role you are applying for, and the skills and experience required. Ensure you are prepared to prove that you are the right candidate for the role.
Then, be ready and waiting for the recruiter to call…
