Landing a job in one’s preferred industry can take a lot of dedication, commitment and persistence. After applying for a job, many jobseekers immediately assume a passive disposition to the remainder of the application process. With the assumption that they’ve done everything they could do to help their chances of getting hired, many just leave their fate up to the hiring manager. Successful jobseekers, however, tend to take a more proactive approach to securing the job of their dreams.
Provide Follow-Up Communications
Failure to deliver follow-up communications is one of the biggest mistakes a jobseeker can make. Not only does it show disinterest in the position at hand, but it can also leave the impression that you are unmotivated or lazy – especially if you have little or no prior experience.
Instead, make sure to initiate follow-up communications within a day or two of submitting your application. Either through telephone, via email, or face-to-face, this lets you confirm that your application or resume has been received and whether or not it is currently under review. More importantly, however, follow-up communications tell your potential employer that you are still interested in the job and available if they should decide to hire you.
Finally, follow-up communications can be provided both after submitting your application and after the initial interview. If possible, be sure to address your communications to the hiring manager in question, which will help keep your name fresh on their mind as they consider all of the applicants.
Refine Your Pertinent Skills
If possible, you can use the initial waiting period as a chance to refine your skill set as it relates to the job in question. Jobs that are physically demanding, for instance, are easily prepared for by starting and maintaining a strict workout regimen. Positions that require accurate data entry or typing can be prepared for through the use of typing tutors and keyboarding software, while jobs that require individualized service will benefit from your one-on-one interactions with friends and family members.
Do Your Research
Some have a tendency to fall into the waiting game after submitting an application. Instead of waiting idly by for the telephone to ring, use this time to your advantage. Do some basic research into the industry as well as the specific company you’ve applied for, take some time to familiarize yourself with recent industry trends, and refine your knowledge on common departmental practices. While this doesn’t necessarily increase your odds of landing that dream job, at least you will be confident in your knowledge once you finally do find that position you’ve been searching for.
Maintain Availability
Always remember to make yourself as available and accessible as possible to any potential employers. If they do reach out to you, they’ll make sure to do so during their regular business hours. As such, you’ll want to make sure you are available during these hours in order to maximize your chances of answering a call. If you are sleeping or otherwise unavailable when the call comes, you might miss out on the job entirely.
