4 Things You Can Do To Guarantee An Interview

Two people shaking hands at an interview
Modern job hunting has evolved over the years. Now-a-days you can easily apply online for virtually any position. Hundreds of companies are now seeking candidates, such as yourself, through the world wide web. Although it is now easier than ever to apply for your desired position, it also means that jobs nowadays have become more competitive because everyone can easily access applications for the same position you desire. So what can you do to make sure you get chosen for an interview with the company of your dreams?

Do Your Research
If you’re job hunting then chances are pretty good that you already have a basic idea of what you want to do. Unfortunately, that won’t be enough. You really need to be specific with your research and figure out which positions you are highly qualified for and really think you will enjoy. By applying for something you are passionate about and qualified for, you will really be able to stick out of the crowd. Another good way to really make yourself stand out is to do your research about the company itself, their history and what they do. If you go in, applying for a job well educated about the business everyone will be super impressed. By doing this it is a lot more likely for employers to call you directly and set up an interview.

Figure Out Your Strengths
Whenever you are applying for a job you want to make sure that you pinpoint your skills and experiences. Before applying take some time to really ponder what you are good at. Maybe even ask some of your friends and family. By taking the time to figure out what you exceed at you can start an application feeling confident, pointing out things that you know make you unique and stand out from the crowd. For example, if you’re seeking a job in the electrical engineering industry, and you have a masters of electrical engineering focus on specific skills and topics in your area of study that you really excelled at. Be sure to take time to discuss why you are so good at what you do. Pointing out your specific strengths really is something that can look great on an application.

Construct A Powerful Resume
Developing a professional and impressive resume can make the difference between getting an interview and receiving a dreadful email stating that you do not meet the expected qualifications. Make sure to take your time to piece together a well thought-out resume that will standout to potential employers. Again, you want to be sure to point out specific strengths and skills that you believe would benefit you in their type of work environment. You also want to be sure to format your resume in a way that is professional and appealing. It is amazing how much of a difference that can make for your potential employer.

Make Sure To Follow-Up After The Application Process
Be persistent and do your best to follow-up after you’ve submitted your application. It’s okay to call your potential employer or send a professional email – as long as you don’t step over the line. Wait at least a week or two AFTER you’ve put in your application. By doing this you come across as very serious about the position and very professional. However, you need to make sure that you avoid being repetitive or irritating to your employer. Be sure to give them some time to respond after each follow up. Sometimes a follow-up from you can even be the deciding factor of them choosing you over another qualified applicant.

Getting an interview can be really difficult, but it can also help motivate you to keep working on your skill sets, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and maybe even figure out what career field is best for you. Applying to different jobs can really be a life changing experience if you let it be. Just make sure that you are always putting forth your best work and are making sure to follow these 4 easy and informative tips and you will definitely be able to make it to that essential and critical interview.

This guest post was written by Kara Masterson. Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.

3 comments

  1. Research & Follow-Up
    How does one do that when most job ads are either through a recruiter or do not give the name of the company placing the ad?
    How about some real-world advice for landing an interview?!

  2. Hire Dave, It’s true that it’s hard to follow up when you don’t know the company hiring. It’s cases like this when this advice won’t apply. But there are companies that post their own jobs and you can do some digging to find out who’s hiring. Sometimes companies have unique job titles and you can run a quick Google search to figure out who the job is with. Also, don’t forget that your network of contacts is a wonderful resource to get hired. In fact, HR professionals say employee referrals are the best resource for finding candidates yet only 7% of job seekers are using referrals to find jobs.

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