My Secret Recruiting Checklist
I see several posts on various platforms daily, from people asking how to get noticed by recruiters, beat ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) and successfully have interviews scheduled with hiring managers.
I understand the struggle that job seekers and leaders go through when the market is competitive, so I’m sharing my “Secret Recruiting Checklist.” Shhh…
As a leader and hiring manager, there were specific things I wanted to see in candidate materials and communication when reviewing applications and interviewing. This could differ by leader and company based on their culture and the role they’re looking to fill, but may give you ideas to incorporate into your application process.
Leverage Jobscan.co - A scanner validates your resume’s format, word choice and ensures screening bots will process it smoothly; assume a human isn’t the first one reviewing it.
Show your enthusiasm! – When reviewing 50+ resumes for an open position, hiring managers want candidates to show genuine energy and excitement about their opportunity and company.
Clearly explain why you’re qualified. – In every piece of material and communication (i.e., cover letter, resume, Career Story, phone screen, interview and thank you note), clearly convey the specific reasons you’re qualified, not just based on tasks you’ve performed, but the results you achieved and the impact those results had on the business and people around you.
Yes, write a cover letter. – The resume is the “How, What, Where & When,” but your cover letter explains the very important “Why.” It’s your creative opportunity to illustrate why you’re unique, why your values, skills and brand align with the company’s mission, why your specific strengths will help them move forward faster, and why they can’t succeed without you!
Research the company you’re applying to. – Most of the items above can’t be accomplished successfully without doing your research about the company and team you’re applying to. Do you know their mission and vision? What have they released to the press recently? How are they active in the community? Who do you know who already works there that you can connect with? What are their products, customer segments, passion projects/programs? All these answers will help you tailor your story more effectively.
*Bonus Item* Re-connect with your Network. – Every job I was offered started with a contact I had made previously. The first resume I submitted was reviewed by a college friend I didn’t know worked for the company (thank you Jen!). After I moved to another state, executives who were building a start-up called and asked if I’d manage their customer service team (so grateful Rick and Rob!). After years at that company, a colleague I previously worked with called and asked if I’d join his IT Dev Team since I’d be supporting internal customers like me and I’d know how they think (you convinced me Rich!). Lesson: work hard and nurture relationships with people in your network. You never know where the next great opportunity will come from.
