How To Stand Out From Other Job Candidates
Written by: Arthur Gluzman, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Let’s assume you’ve come across a fantastic job opportunity. You update and polish your resume, create a fantastic cover letter, and list your references. Everything is going great; you have everything ready except for one aspect.
So, what makes you stand out among the rest?
You may have an excellent resume, an extraordinary cover letter, and some solid references. Good for you – but who’s to say that the other candidate’s credentials aren’t the same as yours?
If you really want to seize that opportunity, you’d have to prove to the employers your worth. It would be best if you went beyond the standard and the norm and provided them with something they wanted. It all comes down to convincing the company that you are what they need. Here’s how:
1. Submit a Pain Letter
Instead of having a standard cover letter, be bold and submit a pain letter instead. Usually, the contents of a pain letter are the problems and issues the company faces, and how, if employed, you can provide a solution to these problems. This demonstrates the level of commitment you have for the company and your drive to contribute – which is what most companies look for.
2. Utilize an Insider
This is considered an underhanded move for some, but for others – it’s a wise and resourceful move. Don’t rely on the recruiter to get an interview; instead, if you know someone within the company, create a connection with the person and ask for a referral. Then, let that inside person refer you, as this always yields a higher success rate in getting employed.
3. Showcase Your Skills
A resume can only take you so much. Why not add a portfolio where you can support your claims within your resume by showcasing your skills and achievements? For example, if you’ve done tons of writing for your past employer; when you submit your application, insert a few samples of your past work.
You can bring the portfolio if you get called for an interview, but that’s a huge IF. So, to increase your chances of showcasing your work, why not build an online portfolio that is accessible by your potential employers, therefore allowing them to view the portfolio when reviewing your application.
4. Demonstrate Your Value
Online portfolios are a great addition to your application, but you can go even further than that. Demonstrate your value to the company by submitting additional documents. Think of what the company needs and develop a unique idea around that – then propose that idea to the company. Doing so will demonstrate your deep knowledge of the company and show your eagerness to contribute.
5. Be Bold in Asking Questions
If you finally land an interview, congrats! You are one step away. Preparation is key but remember that an interview isn’t one-sided. It’s a conversation, and it goes both ways. Hence, have questions prepared for your interviewers. Questions that would help you determine whether the position is right for you, as well as show the interviewer your dedication to pursuing the opportunity.
Get That Job!
As cliché as it may be, everyone is unique. It’s just how you carry and communicate that fact to your employer. There’s no better way of standing out than being yourself.
Most importantly, if you need help getting your dream job in just 90 days, kindly check out Arthur Gluzman’s Free book titled ‘How to Get Your Dream Job in Any Economy.’ This book chronicles a proven step-by-step plan that has been designed to help professionals get their dream job or position in any economy.
The Free Book Can Be Downloaded Here.
Arthur Gluzman, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Arthur Gluzman, the founder is the CEO of a million-dollar recruitment company and a career coach. For more than 20 years, Arthur has coached and helped various individuals to get their dream jobs within 30 days. He has also helped top reputable companies recruit the best talent in their organizations. Using his 20 years of recruiting experience, he has helped CEO’s, CFO’s, VP’s, and Talent Acquisition Pros who are looking to hire and retain the best professionals and executives in the known Universe. "I encourage you to take your career to the next level. I believe it’s time for you to receive expert assistance in pinpointing your hidden strengths and passions while building unshakable confidence. Build your brand as an expert in your industry, just like any other leading expert. You will never feel stuck, undervalued, unappreciated, unrecognized, or underpaid ‒ Ever again in your lifetime. So…"
