You're applying for multiple jobs online. How can you tailor your applications to each specific job posting?

A comprehensive job analysis is essential for understanding the nuances of a job posting. Beyond basic qualifications, focus on repeated or emphasized keywords and phrases. These highlight core competencies valued by the employer. By aligning your resume and cover letter with these specifics, you can effectively showcase relevant skills and experiences. Remember, a tailored application increases your chances of standing out to potential employers.

With the resume tools available today (Enhancv, Teal, etc.), you shouldn't spend longer than 5-10 minutes updating your resume for each application. Don't fall for the trap of dumping endless keywords from the job description; instead, focus on the keywords that recruiters actually care about and demonstrate your fit, such as hard skills, technologies, core responsibilities, and domain or industry expertise. Then, treat your summary section as a mini-pitch and highlight your relevant experience and achievements. For example, if you're applying for a FinTech company, emphasize your years of experience in FinTech and highlight 2-3 relevant accomplishments from that role in your summary.

Your cover letter provides an opportunity to craft a compelling narrative about your suitability for the job. Connect your past achievements to the tasks outlined in the job description. Address the company’s needs and express enthusiasm for their mission or values. Demonstrating thorough research enhances your chances of making a strong impression.

When customizing your application, delve into thorough company research. Understand their products, services, culture, and values. Highlight specific aspects that resonate with you and align your professional values with theirs. Demonstrating genuine interest in the company sets you apart and shows that you’re invested in this specific opportunity.

Once you’ve submitted your customized application, take proactive steps. Send a polite follow-up email expressing your continued interest in the position. Reiterate your enthusiasm for discussing how your skills align with the company’s needs. This approach keeps your application on their radar and showcases your initiative and enthusiasm for the role.

Use AI to help you understand the job postings better. Here are some prompts I like to use: 1. What are the keywords in this job posting? Here is the job description: [paste job description]. 2. What are the most important skills in this job posting? Here is the job description: [paste job description]. 3. Here is a job I'm interested in: [paste job description]. Here is my resume: [paste resume (minus personal details)]. What is missing from my resume?

1?? Targeting similar roles ?? Then, it should be pretty easy ?? It's just subtle tweaks + changes ?? The job spec will guide you 2?? Targeting diverse jobs ?? This is a bit more work ?? It can require resume overhaul ?? If you find you're cutting corners ?? Maybe an idea to narrow search