As a job seeker, landing an interview is a crucial step in securing a new position. But how do you make sure your application stands out among dozens or even hundreds of candidates? And once you are invited, what should you pay attention to in order to make a good impression and increase your chances of success? In this blog post, we offer valuable tips and advice.
Ensure a Strong CV and Cover Letter
It all starts with a compelling CV and a persuasive cover letter. These are your first opportunities to stand out to the recruiter or hiring manager. Make sure your CV is clear, error-free, and up to date. Highlight your relevant work experience, education, and skills. Use strong, active language. Tailor your CV to the specific job you're applying for.
Your cover letter should demonstrate why you're the best candidate for the job. Tell a compelling story, use concrete examples, and show enthusiasm and motivation. Demonstrate that you've researched the company and link your strengths to their needs. A strong cover letter can make the difference in getting invited for an interview.
Network and Use Your Contacts
Many jobs today are filled through networking and internal referrals. Let your network know you're looking for a new opportunity. Someone might know someone at the company you’re interested in and can put in a good word for you. Former colleagues may also tip you off about job openings.
Be active on LinkedIn and other professional platforms. Maintain a strong, complete profile and share relevant content. Engage with posts, congratulate others on new jobs, and build connections. The more visible you are, the more likely you'll get noticed by recruiters and employers. Don’t hesitate to reach out to recruiters or managers directly for an informal chat.
Prepare Thoroughly
Once you’re invited to an interview, the real preparation begins. Research the company, the role, and, if known, the interviewers. What is the company’s mission and vision? What are their core values? What recent developments have occurred? How does your experience align with their needs?
Prepare answers for common interview questions such as: What are your strengths and weaknesses? Where do you see yourself in five years? Why do you want to work here? Why are you the best fit for this position? Think of specific examples and anecdotes to support your answers. Practice with a friend or in front of a mirror. Also prepare thoughtful and relevant questions to ask during the interview.
Make a Strong First Impression
You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Make sure you look presentable and that your outfit fits the company culture. Arrive on time, preferably 10 minutes early. Offer a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, and smile. Be polite and friendly to everyone you meet, from the receptionist to the CEO.
Exude confidence and enthusiasm, but stay authentic. Show genuine interest in others and the company. Listen carefully, ask questions, and let others finish speaking. Provide relevant examples and stories. Don’t be afraid to sell yourself and highlight your unique value.
Follow Up After the Interview
Many candidates think the work is done after the interview, but the opposite is true. Following up properly can increase your chances of success. Send a thank-you email the day after the interview, expressing appreciation for their time, mentioning you enjoyed the conversation, and reaffirming your enthusiasm for the position and desire to move forward in the process.
If you're rejected, don’t hesitate to ask for feedback. Perhaps another candidate had slightly more experience or was a better fit for the company culture. Learning from feedback helps you improve for next time. You never know when another suitable position may arise in the future.
Stay Persistent and Believe in Yourself
Applying for jobs is hard work and requires perseverance and resilience. It’s likely you’ll face many rejections before landing your ideal job. Keep going and believe in yourself. Ask your support network for encouragement during tough moments. Celebrate small victories, such as getting invited to your first interview.
Don’t give up and never lose sight of your self-worth. Eventually, you’ll find your dream job. A rejection says nothing about you as a person — it’s usually just a matter of fit with the role or company. Keep developing yourself, expand and deepen your skills and knowledge. Every interview is a valuable experience and brings you closer to success.
With a strong CV and cover letter, a solid network, thorough preparation, a strong first impression, and the right follow-up, you increase your chances of being invited to interviews and ultimately landing the job you want. Job hunting is like high-performance sport — believe in yourself and never give up. Your moment is coming!
Want more tips and advice on applying and advancing your career? Check out our other blog posts or contact us for personal coaching. We’d be happy to help!