Part of my job as a Human Resource officer is to advise people on job searching strategies and frankly people have been failing in this aspect. By now you get it: If you want to land an interview, let alone a job offer, you need a winning CV. Fortunately, you already have one and are fairly certain it's strong enough to put you a step ahead of the competition. Or so you think.
Not so fast. Sure you've got a knockout CV, but do you actually know how to use it? Unfortunately, most job seekers don't, as I came to realize a few days back. I got around three calls in one day from different people asking me if the CV they had placed over 6 months ago with our firm had yielded any results. My question to them was, had you called us within that period to ask about the position you were looking for? The answer of course was no they had not.
Nine out of 10 job seekers do very little with their CV hoping that their dream employer will come looking for them or drop from the heavens like manna. Just like a hammer, a CV is a tool that can help you get the job done. But if the hammer sits in a toolbox unused, it's worthless. Your CV, sitting on your desk or in your computer, will do little for you unless it lands in the hands of decision makers. While working with thousands of job seekers, I have seen firsthand which CV strategies significantly increased the number of interviews her clients received. Based on my experience, here are sure-fire methods to maximize a CV's results:
1) Include the position's job title and any reference code or number provided.
2) Ensure that your CV mimics keywords used throughout the job description.
3) Make changes if the CV does not already highlight a key skill area mentioned in the job description.
4) If you've found a job target, contact friends, family, colleagues and references to ask if they know anyone connected to the company
5) Most employers now require job seekers to apply online, through e-mail or various application processes which means you follow instructions.
6) Identify 25 to 100 companies where you want to work and mail your CV and cover letter directly to them, even though they may not be hiring
7) Consider using a phone book to identify target employers
A strong CV, taking advantage of effective job search techniques and following up are what will help you pull ahead of your competition. Then you'll open many doors to attractive positions that fit your skills and interests. Do not wait for 6 months or more to follow up on a lead. A HR Manager always remembers people who can match their CV. In addition, get interview skills if you feel that you are wanting in that area.
It will only serve to help you getting a job if you work hard at the job searching process.
This article is by Juliah Karimi of Staff Kenya.
0 Comments