With just a few weeks left before the new year, most people are looking at changing their jobs.
Angelique Robbertse, product and marketing manager for Job Mail, says matriculants, graduates and employees looking to make a career change in 2016 will face the same assignment – sending out their CVs to apply for prospective jobs.
“The first task at hand is for them to compile or update their CV, but this is not the only action required when you are actively looking for a job,” she says.
According to Angelique, the key is to keep the content short but detailed, even if you don’t have a track record of work or internship experience in your field of choice.
She encourages new jobseekers not to include unnecessary information just to beef up the CV.
Angelique suggests the following actions for jobseekers to take to make themselves stand out when applying for a job and going for an interview:
1. Create a professional CV
Keep it short – it should be no longer than four pages and up to date. Information provided should be relevant to the position applied for. Include a covering letter detailing your experience and skills, and reasons why employers should consider you for the post advertised. Customise the covering letter for every position you apply for.
2. Clean up your digital footprint
More than 75% of recruiters and employers use social media profiles to reference a candidate. Clean up your social media profiles by untagging yourself from unprofessional photos that may discourage potential employers from hiring you. If preferred, you can set your social media pages to private so only friends or people you provide permission to, can view your profile. Update your LinkedIn profile and include links to your other social media accounts if they are professional and suitable. If you have a blog, include a link to it too.
3. Network on Twitter
Follow industry leaders, experts and companies in your field and interact with them. Twitter is one of the best networking tools, so use it to your advantage to access and consume the latest news, trends and reports to stay informed.
4. Research prospective employers
Research the company once you’re invited for an interview. Find out what services or products it offers. Useful information includes its work culture, what its employees are saying about their experiences there and the company’s latest news. You’ll make a good first impression if you’re knowledgeable about the company. Ask questions during the interview; it shows that you’re interested in the company and keen to understand your potential work environment.
5. Register your CV on online job portals
By registering your CV on an online job portal, you’ll gain wider exposure and build your online profile. This will also increase your chances of being headhunted by potential employers.
“Remember that your CV has to highlight you as a professional who can add value to the company with your unique set of skills and experiences. Take the time to compile an exceptional CV as you only have one chance to make a good impression,” Angelique concludes.
