It’s not you — job search has gotten increasingly hard in 2024 — thanks to companies tightening their belts and the rise of AI tools allowing people to apply to 100s of roles regardless of fit (requiring recruiters to sort through even more applicants than before).
It’s an even tougher pill to swallow coming off the heels of 2022 and 2023, which were some of the best years I’ve ever seen for job seekers.
In the spirit of controlling what’s within your control, here’s how you can differentiate yourself in the face of tough competition:
#1 Create killer career marketing collateral
To stand out from a crowd of well-qualified executives, your resume, bio, website, etc., must impress. You can’t afford to go with a resume written in using the same format you used 7-8 years ago, designed for a print versus an online read, lacking in quantifiable achievements or skipping strategic, bottom-line impact.
Those vying for a role in that executive space must show they can manage not just budgets but people and initiatives — and back it up with examples.
#2 Start talking
You’ve heard it before. Most jobs at the executive level are filled recruiter search or networking, not by applying online or posting your resume to job boards.
What’s your best shot when it comes to landing interviews? Devote just 20% of your time applying for roles for which you’re an ideal fit and 80% to networking to figure out who you need to know to gain some inside intel and traction.
Amass names by starting with friends and families and then expanding to acquaintances. Take it a step further by searching on LinkedIn to find people at companies you are interested in, as well as recruiters. Then — start reaching out.
While some might never respond, remember you only need a few to advance your search.
#3 Get virtual
Like it or not, recruiters, HR professionals and hiring managers will find and vet you online. Why not play this to your advantage by engaging on one or two social media sites?
By contributing (sharing, commenting, liking or even authoring) just once a week and you will slowly but surely position yourself as an expert in your field. Engage one time a day and you might possibly elevate yourself to thought-leader status. This way, when hiring managers look for you online (and they will), what they find will reinforce for them that you are a candidate worth taking seriously.
Secure your status as a contender
If you are hoping to land a new role in the upcoming year, you’ll need to up your game by investing in strong career documents that include writing a resume and a strong LinkedIn profile, building and communicating with your network, and building your online reputation.
Book NOW for your free resume consult.
VAFrancoResumes@gmail.com | www.virginiafrancoresumes.com | Call/text 704-771-8572