The job market is becoming an increasingly competitive environment, and this has only worsened as a result of the pandemic – with COVID-19 potentially leaving 5 million out of work.
Now, more than ever, it’s important for you to stand out from the crowd. When it comes to job hunting, there’s no safety in numbers!
If you’re looking to switch up a career but can’t seem to get a foot in the door, check out these five tips to make you more employable.
1. Unique Selling Point
It’s a good idea to ask yourself what you’re Unique Selling Point is. What makes you stand out from all the other candidates?
Being able to demonstrate this with specific examples is an excellent way to show an employer that you’re the ideal candidate for the role.
2. Higher Education
Gaining further qualifications is also a way to differentiate yourself from your job hunting peers.
Of course, not everyone can just drop everything and return to university to relive their student years. However, with a distance learning institution such as Anglia Ruskin University, you can study flexibly and show your employer that you’re proactive about your personal development.
Online education is an excellent solution for anyone looking to further their education and is particularly suited to parents and full-time workers in need of flexibility.
3. Volunteering
We know that finding time to volunteer can be difficult for those of us with pack schedules. But if you have the time, this is a great way to ensure that your CV really stands out.
Not only can it be a personally rewarding experience, but it demonstrates to your future employer that you have a great work ethic!
4. Wide Skill Set
The ability to showcase a wide set of skills will make you an asset to any company.
Sit down and list your skills, including soft skills such as communication and time management – work on them if you find that they’re lacking.
Having a second language is also a great skill to make you stand out in any field.
Research shows that bilingual employees tend to earn around 10% more a year than monolingual ones, so it’s a good idea to brush up on that French and Spanish they made you take at school!
5. Tend to Your CV
It’s important that you consider the appearance of your CV. It’s the first impression a potential employer will have of you.
Your CV is neat and looks professional. Choose a font that shows that you’re serious about your job search – you wouldn’t apply for a job in Comic Sans, would you?
Research the job that you’re applying for so that you can highlight the skills and qualifications that will be most relevant to your potential employer – and don’t forget your cover letter!
We know that finding a job isn’t easy, especially at the moment, and change can be a frightening thing – but these five steps will improve your chances of standing out.
Do you have any tips for employability? Share them in the comments below!
