Finding a dream job is the goal of every person in the job market, but it is easier said than done. A person needs to balance their personal passions with a job that pays a livable salary, though many people often pursue a salary above a job that actually interests them. In most cases, this leads a person to become dissatisfied with their job in the long run.
To avoid this, it’s best to start researching roles that align more with your interests. However, getting back into the job market can be a scary experience to go through, which is why understanding how to secure your dream job with beneficial interview and application tips can help.
The Current State of the Job Market
While it may seem like the job market is currently in a state of degradation with layoffs occurring in major industries, the entire job market is actually performing quite well. In fact, U.S. unemployment is currently at a 53 year low, going to show how many job openings there are. This means that, for those with the proper experience, there is likely a role out there. All it takes is understanding the best tips for securing a job.
7 Tips for Securing Your Next Dream Job
Each of the following seven tips can help a person land their dream job, whatever that role may be. Above all, ensure you meet the basic qualifications for whatever role you are applying to. If you don’t currently meet the qualifications, take the necessary time to reach those before using the following tips to apply for the role:
1. Focus on building out your resume
The resume is, without a doubt, the most important part of a job application. In only six to seven seconds, a recruiter will evaluate your candidacy for a job based on the information you have provided. However, to make a job-winning resume you must be succinct, concise, and thorough all at once. Use beneficial resume crafting templates to build out your skills.
2. Research potential interview questions for your role
Depending on the role you are applying to, there are a number of likely questions that will be asked. By researching these questions in advance on websites such as Glassdoor where anyone can publish these, a person can gain an advantage when they sit down in their interview by knowing what to expect. Searching for these online allows you the opportunity to explore curated guides of top interview questions – remember, you want the advantage over all the other potential candidates, so getting this research in, will only help to benefit you in the long run.
3. Evaluate potential employers to see if you have connections
As you consider different companies which may offer the role you are seeking, check to see if anyone within your network works at any of the companies. This will give you a chance to reach out and inquire as to the company culture and what the role may look like.
4. Always write a customized cover letter
Similar to crafting a resume which is tailored for the role you are applying to, it’s also important to write a customized cover letter. This letter should include the reasons you want to work for the company, specifically calling out certain elements of the role which may appeal to you.
5. Research your interviewer
Similar to researching the questions you may receive in advance of your interview, you should also research the interviewer. Use platforms such as LinkedIn to learn about your interviewer’s background to see if you have any common ties. While it may feel weird to be “stalking” the interviewer, it’s an excellent way to see their history with the company so that you can think of questions to ask.
6. Develop a strong digital portfolio
For those seeking a role in the digital space, focus on building out a portfolio that shows off the work you have completed. Ideally, set up your own website that you can provide a link to on your resume.
7. Ask thoughtful questions in your interview
Finally, at the end of the interview, you will be asked if there are any questions you have. Listen carefully during the interview and ask thoughtful questions that show you have an interest in the role and the company.
Also read: Digital Skills that You can Utilize at any Job
Land your dream role
A dream job will not look the same from person-to-person, which is why finding out what interests you in particular is so important. Think about what passions you have in life and how those can be turned into a career if it is not already one. Once you find a role you are truly passionate about, use the above seven tips to nail your application and interview so that you have a better chance at getting an offer in your new role.
