Tip-1: Be one of the first applicants for a job ad.
Do: Keep notifications on for job listings you like and apply as soon as the job is posted. Aim to be among the first 10 applicants.
Because: HR staff do not have the capacity to check all job applications. They don't have the right software or tools to filter. They don't have the know-how or the right communication skills to consult with the relevant department. Because of this, they often only look at the first few applications and move on.
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Tip-2: Send proof of how you stand out for the role you are applying for.
Do: Along with your application, include clear and impressive examples of how you excel in the specific areas related to the job.
Because: Simply sending a standard resume and cover letter is not enough. HR staff see many applications and they don't spend much time on each one. Provide proof to make it easier for them to see why you are a great fit.
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Tip-3: Don’t show how over-qualified you are; instead, share your experience related to the specific job.
Do: When applying, highlight your experience and skills that are only directly relevant to the job. Focus on how your background aligns with the job requirements.
Because: If you present yourself as too qualified, employers might worry that you will be too expensive or that you might not fit well into their company. Or they wouldn't understand how you're a fit for the job.
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Tip-4: Many companies offer bonuses for hiring candidates recommended by current employees. This means they prefer hiring people who are already known within the company.
Do: Try to find connections inside the company. Or if you can, reach out to current employees at the company you’re applying to. Ask them if they can refer you or provide an introduction. This can increase your chances of getting noticed and hired.
Because: Companies often trust the recommendations of their current employees because they already hired them and they can blame them. Without an internal connection, your application might not stand out.
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TLDR;
HR staff are swamped and puzzled with "their job" and not qualified at evaluating applications, so they review only the first few. They choose candidates who clearly match the 3-4 keywords given to them, making it obvious that you align with what the job asks for. Those who offer free ideas, suggestions, or solutions related to the job, or who have proven they are worthy somehow, anyhow, anywhere, and are affordable are preferred. Ideally, they want someone who is not multi-talented, is a mediocre team player and is already known within the company.
So, Jill from Accounting's inexperienced cousin who dances on TikTok has a higher chance than you.
Maybe we should fix HR departments and software, maybe let's let AI do that.
More equal chance for everyone, less biased, more qualified.
