How to Increase My Chance of Getting a Job Interview

Navigating today’s job market can be tricky. There are hundreds of sites to use for a job search, meaning the same job can be posted across numerous sites. The good news is that your resume will most likely end up in the same place no matter which site you use to you apply.

With that said, you have no way of knowing how many other job seekers are applying to that same position. So anyway you can increase your chances of getting one of the jobs is going to be a must. Below are a few tips to help you stand out and land that interview with a person at the company.

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Find a Mutual Connection

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You may be the perfect fit for a job but sometimes, it’s more who you know. Take some time to see if you have any mutual connections with someone that works at the company. Having someone internally pass your resume and cover letter to the employer can greatly increase your chances of getting an interview. 

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Make Contact with the Hiring Manager

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A simple search on a job site like LinkedIn can help you find the hiring manager of a job you are applying to. You connect with them and send a message in advance of applying to the open position.

A quick direct message or email can help you stand out from the rest of the applicants who viewed the job description. Let them know something about you that isn’t on your resume, like a personal anecdote that will leave a positive impression when it comes time to narrow down the candidates.

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Apply Early

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Companies receive dozens or even hundreds of resumes for each job they post. When you are actively searching for a job, it’s best to check postings daily. By doing this you won’t miss a new opportunity. 

Due to the volume of applications, often time hiring managers have to close job posts after only a couple of days. This also means the faster you get your application in, the better chance you have. 

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Follow Up

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Another way to stand out is to follow up on your cover letter and application to get a job interview. If you apply through a job site, find a phone number or email for the hiring manager. You can also connect with them through a social media job site such as LinkedIn. 

By sending a note expressing your interest in the job posting, you can help bring your resume to the top of the pile. An email or a phone call is a great way to bring yourself to life for the recruiters/interviewers. Let them know something unique about yourself that will make them want to meet you. 

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Keep Your Social Media Up to Date

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Recruiters are likely to do their own research before setting up interviews. Make sure your social media profiles project the image and experience you want.

It’s important to check what information is public. If you have images or posts on sites like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, beware that a recruiter might see what you have out there. 

And lastly, on professional sites such as LinkedIn, ensure your profile matches your resume. It’s an immediate red flag to hiring managers if your job history doesn’t match the skills required. Consistency can increase your chances of getting a job interview with the company.