I’m sure you know exactly what it’s like: you’ve just found the most perfect job or internship on your job search-engine of choice. It’s a PR position with a company whose culture will fit you like a glove, and whose client list just happens to include some of your favorite brands. But guess what? Many other people have found this job opening, and many others will apply. So how do you make yourself stand out from a pile of cover letters? I’ve been through the crazy hunt of internship searching. It often feels like you are grasping around in the dark; and then in that ecstatic moment when you actually find something, it comes crashing to the ground. If you put your time and effort into it, though, you won’t be given all no’s. Here are some keys to a successful job search.
1.) Social media presence
This is pivotal to your success. Employers are going to look you up, so you better make sure they will come up with good results.
- Make sure your LinkedIn is updated and properly showcases your skills and experience. Having recommendations is another plus!
- Clean up your Facebook and Twitter. It’s also great to make clear that you have social media ability; especially for Twitter, interact and share professional knowledge.
- Create an online portfolio or blog. Many sites allow you to easily do this, such as Wix and About.me. Even if you don’t have the time to keep up a blog, it’s important to have a landing page with your information and experience, which employers can easily access and reference.
2.) Do your research
It’s better to spend a lot of time applying to a few places than whipping through dozens, contrary to what it would seem. You are going to hear back from the places that you are passionate and knowledgeable about, because it will come across in your application and interview.
- Spend a good amount of time looking through the company’s website and familiarize yourself with their services, clients, and culture.
- Read up on the employees and look them up on social media-especially LinkedIn. This will come in handy during the interview.
With this information, you can tailor your cover letter to the company and explain why it appeals to you, and, significantly, why you would be a good fit for their unique brand. Additionally, if you land an interview, it is necessary to go in with a list of questions about both the company and the interviewers themselves, if possible!
3.) Follow up
Right after the interview, send an email thanking the interviewers for their time, and then send a hand-written note in the mail. Not everyone takes the time to write a letter, so it will set you apart- and also demonstrate your sincerity and interest in the job.
4.) And follow your heart
Perhaps this should have been the first piece of advice because it is foundational to the job search, but I want to end off with this. Apply to positions that you are truly passionate about and those which align with your career aspirations. If you are applying somewhere for the title or the salary alone, your lack of natural desire will only undermine the application process. If you are truly passionate about the job, then your application will speak for itself. And plus- don’t you want to work somewhere that excites you?