With increased sales during the winter months, many companies are looking to hire more staff. If you’re currently looking for a new career, this may be the perfect time to secure a great position.
Even though Covid-19 is still very much affecting the job market and current work practices, businesses are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
With the vaccine only months away, companies are eyeing opportunities to take advantage of this downtime to set themselves up for when the world opens back up again.
The same should go for you as an employee. While others are sheltering in place, this is the perfect time to set yourself up for future opportunities so you can come out ahead.
To help you be successful, we have compiled a list of the four ways job seekers can stand out this winter.
1. Video interviews are the new normal
Now is the time to practice talking to a computer monitor and putting best self forward – virtually. Slow computers and spotty internet connections are a surefire way to frustrate employers and ruin your chances for success.
Make yourself comfortable with videoconferencing software, and be sure you are in a place with high-speed internet and a computer that can stream without interruption. Test and practice your videoconferencing with friends or relatives to ensure there are no glitches when it’s game time.
In addition, there are ways to create the perfect cheat sheet for a video interview that can help you look even more polished.
2. Craft a cover letter with power words
Power words have a way of setting yourself apart from the crowd. Use power words to entice the hiring manager to continue reading your cover letter as they learn why you are the best candidate based on your training and experience.
Cover letters should show your overall knowledge of the company, its mission and values, and the current direction it is moving. The cover letter is a way to take your resume and tie in your experience to show how you will foster a positive environment and motivate employees if you are chosen for the job.
Avoid restating your resume but rather use specific examples from your previous work experience combined with power words to keep the reader engaged.
3. Focus on professionalism
In the age of telecommuting and online meetings, some people tend to get a little too comfortable. As you prepare for a virtual interview, ensure you have a professional backdrop, and wear the same dress clothes as you would to an in-person interview.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially when it comes to what is in the peripheral of your web camera and what you are wearing. By maintaining a professional approach, you will stand out from those who completed the interview in their pajamas.
4. Start making connections now
LinkedIn is a great platform to reach out to employees based on an employer search. Reach out to employees in organizations that interest you to start building relationships. Networking and relationship building are essential tools for opening doors and feeding you insider information about potential future job opportunities.
Prepare when others are not
Many people have gone into hiding and paused their relationship building and job preparation until the pandemic passes.
Because of this, there will be many missed opportunities that could have been gained if networking and preparation continued.
Set yourself up for success by making connections now, focusing on professionalism, becoming comfortable with videoconferencing, and craft the perfect cover letter.
Be a good boss to yourself
Is the Black Hole due to your resume?
What I read every day