Finding a job in the current economy is not an easy task, but there are a number of things you can do to develop your profile as well as not shoot yourself in the foot if you happen to get that sought after interview. Before I begin, last week I did a podcast episode on becoming a “Connector” and that would be a very good place to start in terms of things you can do to have others work for you in your job search.

Recruiter Fatima Kargbo with Incepture, was willing to take us on a journey behind the scenes to provide a glimpse of what the employer sees when you apply for a position. It was truly an eye opening experience because simple things matter. Some basic points are highlighted below, review them carefully.

Show results

Many people present a resume that outlines their previous position tasks, not knowing that they are simply telling the potential employer “I did what I was told to do” and not showing that they added value. Yes, outline your responsibilities but show how that helped the bottom line. For example: I worked as a stocker in a department store and developed a display case that helped move more items that previously had been difficult to sell. I used stocker to show that almost any position can demonstrate initiative. Action words like developed, created, monitored, followed by “and that resulted in or caused” also help. This is the old sales technique that for every feature or personal attribute be prepared to show a benefit for the target to help connect the dots. This does not mean making stuff up but highlighting some accomplishment that puts you in a good light.

Use short crisp sentences

The person reading your resume has a limited amount of time. Use bullet points or get to the meat of your experience using key words that quickly highlight you particular skill- set. No one has time to read a Russian novel, so hitting the high points quickly increases the possibility your resume will at least get a good once over.

Develop your own interview talking points

I’m not saying your response should be canned but anticipating questions and then developing talking points means you are not trying to describe what you have done off the top of your head. You’re going to be thinking on your feet anyway and your developed talking points at least give you something to fall back on while you mentally craft a response.

Turn weaknesses into positives

I once had someone tell me that what they lacked in terms of education they made up for in effort by teaching themselves things beyond what was required for the position. It may not have been a perfect answer but it left a good impression for me that they would work to shine in the position. This especially applies to nontraditional candidates trying to make the point that you will be a good fit.  Suggesting a plan of action to bridge the gap allows you to take on the elephant in the room and show initiative.

Develop an effective closing comment or well considered question

Sort of like at the Olympics in ice dancing, you want to close on a flourish or high point. Working in a comment about the company says you have done some research a lot better than you telling them “I’ve researched your company.” It goes without saying that if it is a difficulty facing the company, tread lightly. Commenting on a direction they are positively involved in or the scope and process of the position are good starts.

Make Social Media work for you

We live in a very connected world and social media has made it even more so. Make it a point to clean up your facebook or other social media pages because more and more employers are checking your online presence. On the other hand if you have pictures of volunteer events or other worthwhile activities you have participated in, include them. If someone decides to look, at least make certain what they see drives the narrative you presented on your resume or during the interview.

These are just a few things you might want to consider. For more behind the scene details, listen to the podcast where Recruiter Fatima kargbo provides clear instructions on what an employer sees and how you can improve your presentation. You can contact Fatima at Incepture through the highlighted links.

Good luck!!