The present world of job search is highly virtual and
candidates are competing with thousands of others for the same job. It will
therefore be crucial to ensure your appearance on the web posting of the job is
professional and quite unique in order to be noticed by a recruiter. Here are key
points that you need to incorporate in your online job application to ensure
that it stands out:
1. Customize Your Resume and Cover Letter For Every Single Job
This is an important step in the process since every
application for a job should have their own unique resume and cover letter.
Include all relevant keywords taken from the job description and emphasize
those matching criteria such as skills, experience, accomplishments that will
meet the employer’s expectations. It shows that you actually care about the
position and when integrated with keywords, raises your chances of passing
through the ATS.
2. Increase Your Likelihood of Getting Through the ATS
It is common practice for employers to screen candidates
through the help of an ATS. Ensure your resume is ATS-friendly by:
i. Use Arial or Times New Roman fonts when writing.
ii. Fancy graphics, images, or unusual formatting is not allowed.
iii. Use relevant keywords that match the job you are applying
for.
By doing so, there are higher odds that the application will
get to the recruiter’s desk for further consideration.
3. Use a Professional Email Address
Having a proper and more professional email address,
preferably one that contains your full name (for example, john.doe@example.com)
is one way of making a good first impression. Do not select unusual or informal
e-mail addresses because they can weaken the recipients’ confidence in your
authority.
4. Pay Close Attention to Application Instructions
A major mistake that most applicants make is not following
the employer’s instructions on the application process. If they specified a
PDF resume, do not send them a Word document resume. If they have asked for a
writing sample or portfolio, make sure you provide it. Taking care in answering
and providing ideas demonstrates that you’re diligent and appreciate the
processes put in place by the firm.
5. Leverage Your Network
Networking can therefore increase the likelihood of being
recognized greatly. LinkedIn is a great marketplace to reach the employees of
the target company. Getting a recommendation from someone already in the
company will help push your application to the front line. Where there is no
opportunity to get an inside contact, one must join relevant groups online or
offline and start participating in professional discords.
6. Craft a Strong LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn profile usually involves a summary of one’s career,
most probably a summary of your resume. Make sure it is current, has a
professional resume photo, and lists your key competencies, accomplishments,
and recommendations. Incorporating your personalized URL into your resume or
cover letter demonstrates that you are polished and knowledgeable about
technology.
7. Write a Compelling Cover Letter
Your cover letter is an opportunity to provide a personal
narrative and elaboration on what makes you an ideal candidate for the
position. Don’t use any kind of template; rather, tell a story that links your
experience to the services the company offers and the position description. The
highly personalized nature of customizing and addressing the cover letter
immediately appeals to the HR manager.
8. Showcase Your Achievements Quantitatively
Managers are drawn to measurable results. Do not write a
phrase like ‘Increased sales’ but mention how – For instance, the sales were
increased by 25% within the period of six months through effective marketing
approaches. Numbers add credibility to the accomplishments and put them into
perspective.
9. Submitting Your Application at the Right Time
Timing can affect the visibility of your application.
Employment researchers also find that those who apply for a job early in the
morning or within the initial three days of the position posting are likely to
have their applications considered. The posts may be closed before the
deadline, so it is best to apply as soon as possible to secure the position.
10. Follow Up Professionally
When you’ve filed your application, it is advisable to
contact the hiring manager or the head of the Human Resources department of the
organization in question to show that you remain interested in the job. You can
do this through email or LinkedIn. Speak politely, keep it simple and to the
point and do not be demanding. An effective follow-up can show how much you
care and can also make your application stand out in the minds of the
recruiter.
Conclusion
Applying for a job is just the beginning and in today’s job
market competition just doesn’t end by filling out the application. This means that
one should find ways of tailoring the application, presenting it in a
professional manner and even try to find ways of making your application
resemble what the employer expects. Applying the ten mentioned tips will help
you go a long way towards getting your online job application noticed and
therefore, help you secure the job of your choice.
