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Easy Ways to Boost Your Job Prospects in a Crowded Market

Does it feel like you are constantly being overlooked for jobs? Are you having a hard time standing out, and…

Easy Ways to Boost Your Job Prospects in a Crowded Market

10th July 2020

job candidates

Does it feel like you are constantly being overlooked for jobs? Are you having a hard time standing out, and really making your mark against the competition? This is a common complaint that job seekers have, especially in these times where the job market often seems crowded and incredibly competitive. So, what can you do to boost your job prospects? How can you turn things around so you are no longer overlooked?

The good news is that there are a lot of steps you can take that will not only increase your odds of getting noticed by a potential employer, but land and interview, and get that dream job. Sometimes it’s just a matter of making one or two small changes in your approach, whereas other times will call for more drastic steps to be taken. So, let’s take a look at some of the ways you can increase your job prospects even in a crowded market.

mock cv

Add a Little Creativity to Your CV

The first step is to look at your CV with a critical eye. Is it basic and bland, does it look and read like everyone else’s CV? Is there anything unique that stands out? Is it really the best representation of you, your skills, knowledge, and experience?

A CV is your first impression and you want to be sure you don’t waste it. Take the time to find ways to add a little creativity to the CV, make sure it is brief and concise, and ensure you’ve got all the most important details included without going overboard. You can even have a friend, family member, mentor, or CV service look over it for input. It could just be a few simple changes that it needs.

 

Further Your Education and Credentials

Another tip is to further your education and credentials. Any time you can beef up your CV with this kind of content and skills, it’s going to help to set you apart from others. Some employers will be looking for specific degrees, certificates, and credentials to even be considered at all.

A great example is a PgCert, which stands for post-graduate certificate. Just what exactly is a PGCert? Well, you can think of it as a “mini master’s” that you pursue after completing your undergraduate degree. It takes a shorter time to complete than a Master’s and therefore is worth 1/3 of that of a Master’s. This translates to 225 university contact hours.

What it does is elevate your level of knowledge and understanding, and prove to employers how much of an asset you’d be, and how serious you are about your field of study. It’s an excellent way to have your CV stand out.

You can read more about a PgCert here with Uni Compare’s blog that answers the question “what is a PGCert?” Here you will learn what the levels are, why you should get one, and all other important details. This website can act as a great resource for anyone looking to obtain career guides, and university rankings, with the ability to compare courses and schools, and more.

Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Basket

It sounds like a cliché, but this saying is true when it comes to job hunting. Sure, you may have your hopes and dreams pinned on one job with a particular employer, but it’s not an approach that is advised. Applying to multiple jobs that interest you helps to increase your odds of getting hired. It’s simple maths – the more you’re out there, the higher the odds will be that you find something.

If you plan on applying to multiple jobs, it’s also a good idea to keep a list, or some sort of record of each job, the employer, the position, the date you applied, and so forth. You want to be sure you remember each posting should you be contacted and asked in for an interview.

 

Start Networking – Any Amount Can Help

Finally, you want to be sure you’re networking as much as possible. This can start off small with your circle of friends and family; put the word out that you’re looking for a job and see if anyone has any leads.

From there you can get onto LinkedIn, which is the perfect way to make connections within your chosen industry. Many people have found a lot of success on LinkedIn when it comes to job hunting – at the very least, it can help you to expand your network. Just be sure your profile is professional and speaks to the field you have your eye on.

It Is Possible to Stand Out in the Crowd

By using these tips, staying consistent with your efforts, and keeping a positive attitude, you will be able to stand out in the crowded market and finally land that job you had been dreaming about.

Categories: Advice, Articles

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