5 things to keep in mind when applying for a new job
Looking to switch things up in your career?
Applying for a new job can be exciting. After all, you are starting a brand new journey! However, it can also be a nerve-wracking experience if you do not know what you are doing.
With rising competition in the job market, you need to go beyond simply submitting your job application and hoping for the best. To increase your chances of success, there are a few important things you must keep in mind.
For instance, it is essential to understand what employers are seeking in candidates. Companies and organisations are not simply looking for individuals with the right qualifications and experience. In fact, they are on the lookout for people who align with their values and can contribute to their overall mission.
However, if you want the job, you need to stand out. Recruiters often review several resumes in a day. Some international companies involved in global recruitment often receive thousands of job applications in a day. This is why it is important to ensure that yours stands out.
As a job seeker, you need to be well aware of what a business stands for and tailor your application to show them how you can meet their needs. Without proper preparation, you may face rejection and miss out on an opportunity.
One way to avoid this is to prepare yourself and take proactive steps to ensure that you can give your best. Preparation involves more than just updating your resume, it also includes practising for interviews and developing a clear understanding of your own skills and accomplishments.
You must also take into consideration whether the job position meets your personal requirements. For example, if you have signed up for a home loan, car loan or employees loan, you will need to manage your debts. This is why it is important to consider whether you can truly achieve financial stability with the job you are applying for.
In this article, we will guide you through the rocky road of preparing for a new job. Let’s begin!
5 things to consider when applying for a new job
1. Doing your research
Before you apply for a job position, it is important to research the company you are interested in. Today, many employers are actively looking for candidates who demonstrate a genuine interest in their organisation and understand how they can fit into the bigger picture. If you can show them how you fit in, it will likely give you an edge over other candidates.
Moreover, by conducting thorough research, you can also gain valuable insights that will not only help you tailor your job application but also prepare you for your interview. You can start by exploring the company’s official website and identifying the company’s mission, core values and the products or services they offer.
It also helps to familiarise yourself with their organisational structure, key team members and any recent news or achievements. Besides this, you may also want to take note of their company culture and the work environment they promote.
In addition to that, you may also explore additional sources, like industry publications, news articles and social media handles. This will help you gather a broader understanding of the organisation’s reputation, market position and any recent trends or challenges that they are facing.
2. Tailoring your resume and cover letter
Your resume and cover letter will build your first impression and introduce you to potential employers. If you are applying for a new job with an old resume, employers are likely to reject your application. To make a strong impact, it is essential to tailor your resume and cover letter specifically for each job application. With a personalised resume and cover letter that highlight your skills and experiences, you are more likely to grab the attention of hiring managers.
Begin by reviewing the job description and identifying the key qualifications and responsibilities they are looking for. Can you match their expectations and deliver results? Your resume communicates how your skills, accomplishments and experiences align with the requirements of the positions, which is why it is important to be specific.
For example, customise the summary section of your resume to reflect your career goals and talk about how they align with the company’s mission. Let’s say you are applying for a data strategy consultant job, you may want to showcase your experience conducting consumer behaviour data analysis on your resume.
Show employers your most relevant accomplishments and experiences, placing them at the top of your resume. Rearrange or modify the order of your skills and qualifications to highlight those that relate to the job you are applying for.
When it comes to your cover letter, the objective is to address the specific needs of the company and explain why you are uniquely qualified for the role. Use your cover letter as an opportunity to demonstrate why you are passionate and excited about the role, how much knowledge you have gathered about the company and how well you understand the niche or industry.
3. Preparing for interviews
Once you have secured an interview, it is time to start prepping. The interview stage allows employers to assess your suitability for the position you are applying for. It is an opportunity for you to showcase your qualifications, skills and personality to your employers via face-to-face interaction. If you want to perform well and make a lasting impression, you need all the prep you can get.
Before your interview, research some commonly asked interview questions for the industry and job position you are applying for. Practice how you would respond to these questions while emphasising relevant experiences and achievements.
However, make sure that your answers are as genuine as possible and do not sound scripted. The goal is to demonstrate your ability to think on your feet while delivering meaningful answers.
You could also practice mock interviews with a friend to gather confidence and perfect your delivery. Remember to pay attention to your body language and tone of voice and maintain good eye contact.
Lastly, prepare a list of intelligent and thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. Many interviewers commonly ask candidates to ask them questions by the end of the interview. This is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your interest in the role and company, as well as your critical thinking skills. Try to inquire about current or future projects, learn about the challenges they are facing or ask about opportunities for growth.
4. Dressing professionally
First impressions can make or break your job application process. This is why it is essential to present yourself professionally. This also includes the way you dress for your job interview. While attire may vary based on the industry and company culture, it is still important to dress appropriately and make a polished appearance.
Before your interview, look up the company’s dress code and industry norms. If you are still unsure, it is best to stick to formal attire. A well-fitted suit or professional work clothes can create a positive and professional impression, showing your recruiters that you are serious about the job. Remember to pay attention to details such as grooming, neatness and accessories that complement your overall look.
However, it’s not all about the clothes you wear. It is also important to present yourself confidently and professionally throughout the job application process. For example, you need to maintain verbal and non-verbal communication, maintain good posture, make eye contact, offer a firm handshake and more. Practice active listening skills and respond thoughtfully to the questions you are asked.
Your body language should also convey confidence, which is why you need to be mindful of slouching, fidgeting or crossing your arms. Instead, it is always better to adopt an open stance that demonstrates interest.
5. Prepare to negotiate
When it comes to preparing for a new job, you need to also prepare for negotiating salary and benefits. Doing this allows you to advocate for yourself and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your skills, experiences and contributions. When you prepare to negotiate in advance, you can appear more confident when negotiating during your interview, which increases your chances of achieving a favourable outcome.
However, you need to understand the industry standards and salary ranges for positions that are similar to yours. This will give you a baseline to determine the fairness of your initial offer and may also provide leverage during negotiation. You must also consider your qualifications and level of experience before you negotiate.
If you need to practice, a good tip is to role-play with a friend. This can help you anticipate potential objections or counteroffers, helping you prepare compelling responses. Once you are prepared to negotiate mentally, you will be able to do it with ease during your interview.
However, do ensure that you are not simply making demands. If you want to negotiate for a higher salary or benefits, show your employers why you deserve it. Highlight your unique value proposition and how you can contribute to the company’s growth. Remember to maintain a professional approach throughout the process and aim for a win-win outcome.
Summing it up
Today, the job market is all about competition. If you are well-prepared, you can enhance your chances of success. Remember to research the company you are aiming to work for, tailor your application to suit their requirements and navigate your interviews and negotiations with confidence. With these tips, you are sure to make a strong impression and secure the job.