Are you actively looking for a new role? You’re not alone. According to the Australian Bureau of Statics, 9.8% of the population is actively seeking work. That equates to almost two million people. So how do you capture a resourcing specialist’s attention in such a crowded job market?
We appreciate that writing multiple applications each day, only to receive nothing in return, can be frustrating and disheartening. Just for a moment, it may help to think about your situation from the opposite side. Resourcing Consultants are often inundated with up to 50 applications for each role. We need to quickly assess a large number of resumes to create a shortlist featuring the best possible candidates for each role. While there is no silver bullet, there are several things you can do to increase the chances of your resume grabbing a Resourcing Consultant’s attention during this initial screening process.
Here are the five C’s I believe are key to ensuring your CV makes a great first impression:
1. Customise
First impressions count, which is why the first 15 – 20 words we read on your resume are crucial. Taking the time to customise your resume to fit the job description is well worth the effort involved. It significantly increases your chances of making the shortlist. Customising can be as simple as mentioning the keywords featured in the job ad such as brownfield, sustaining capital or project management. Identify the key deliverables the hiring manager is looking for and make it clear how your skillset fits.
2. Clarity
Clarity in a resume is paramount to success. In my time, I’ve seen slogans, multicoloured text, unnecessary pictures and page-long hobby lists all featured on resumes. The best advice I can give is to keep it simple! If your resume is not easy to read, or immediately relevant to the job, it will be culled.
3. Credibility
Tell us why you’re qualified for the job. Experience is great, but examples are even better. Demonstrated experience will almost always tip the role in your favour, as will relevant qualifications and stellar references. Set yourself apart with examples related to the job you are applying for such as project management experience, technical expertise and career highlights. Relevant qualifications and some great references will be the cherry on top of your application.
4. Call in
Most Resourcing Consultants are happy to have a quick chat over the phone to discuss your application or what you, and they, might be looking for. This is a great way to build a relationship with a recruiter specific to your industry and access the hidden job market. Often roles are filled quickly, simply because we’ve spoken to someone on a previous call and know they are a great match from both a professional and personal perspective. Establishing a relationship with a Resourcing Consultant helps you stay front of mind. You become more than just a name on a screen.
5. Coffee catch-up
Showing the initiative to meet face-to-face with a Resourcing Consultant can leave a great first impression, especially if you’ve come prepared. Do your research on our company, clients and the roles we most often onboard for. This will show you are keen and capable. It also shows that you’ve made the effort to think critically about what comes next in your career. Additionally, asking questions about the market, your resume, and how you can fit into current or upcoming roles will also put you at the forefront of the candidate pool.
Resumes featuring the five C’s create a great first impression and are keys to success when actively applying for a role. You might be surprised by the number of people that go from ‘a quick chat’ to being placed with one of our clients. Reach out or send your resume through today and we may be in touch sooner than you think!
