Reapplying for the same job? Here's what to consider

Looking to land that dream job but missed out the first time? Don’t worry! Companies often repost job listings or keep positions open, giving you another shot at success.

Whether the criteria have changed or you've gained new skills, reapplying can be a smart move. But what should you keep in mind when going for the same role again?

In this edition of the Get Hired by LinkedIn News Asia newsletter, we asked experts to share their advice on how professionals can boost their chances of getting hired.

What should you consider when reapplying for the same role? Share your tips in the comments below, using #GetHiredAsia.?

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Strategise to succeed: Think differently

The dejection that comes with rejection is real. It can be a blow to your ego and fuel self-doubt. However, stories of very successful people like Thomas Edison and J.K. Rowling show that those who keep trying are the ones who succeed, says leadership coach Lakshmi Ramachandran, PhD, PCC .?

But there's a caveat to the adage “try and try till you succeed”. Doing the same thing over and over again won't lead to success. What you do differently and strategically matters, she adds.

For instance, “the first time I applied for my current role in learning and development as a transition from a career in life sciences, I failed. When the same role appeared again after six months, I applied again and got the job.”?

This is what Ramachandran did differently and strategically:

• Found the hiring manager via common connections and asked for a meeting.

• Carefully reviewed the job description and identified skill gaps.

• Reworked on the resume and highlighted relevant transferable skills.?

• Effectively communicated her story, enthusiasm, and ability to handle the new job portfolio to the hiring manager.

Reapply smart: Key considerations

In today’s tough job market, many people are still struggling to find employment. If you come across a role you previously applied for and see it re-advertised several months later, why not reapply, advises career coach Kevin Kan .?

Organisations may have updated their requirements for the role, or they might not have found the right fit yet, he adds.

Here’s what you should consider when reapplying for the same role:

• Do your research: Find out why you were not considered for the role previously. Reach out to the recruiter or hiring manager. Once you understand the shortfall in your CV or interview, you can work towards enhancing your new application.

• Cover letter: Don’t just resend your previous cover letter. Now that you’ve done the reconnaissance, edit or change your cover letter to address the new information you have found about their vision of the ideal candidate. Briefly mention that you applied before and explain why you’re reapplying. This shows persistence and interest in the role.

• New skills: Remember to include new skills you have gained in your CV. Also, update your CV and cover letter with any new experiences or achievements since your previous application.

• Networking: In today’s job market, successful candidates often engage in extensive networking. Who have you spoken with at the target company? Have you connected with the hiring manager? Can anyone recommend you for the role?

• Stalking: Don't cross the line into stalking while networking or following up on your previous application. Constantly leaving messages or trying to reach the recruiter through multiple social media channels is not recommended. Keep it professional.

• Help: If you applied solo the last time, try a different approach this time. Consider working with a career coach to fine-tune your cover letter, CV, approach and interview technique. Think outside the box – reach out to a recruitment firm and ask them to represent you for this specific role.

• Interview: If you get called in for an interview, practice mock interviews beforehand. Demonstrate your knowledge of the company and the role, and clearly articulate the value you can bring. Seek feedback, and prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview.

Bypass AI: Change your application method

Reapplying for the same job at the same organisation isn't necessarily repetitive; it's giving yourself another chance. Even top candidates face rejection due to factors like AI interviewers or HR biases, says executive coach Yoke Leng Leong .

“I once believed I was the perfect fit for an Executive Director (ED) position, but another connection got the job. Months later, a headhunter approached me for the same role, referred by a friend who thought I was a good fit. Despite this, the junior HR manager's biases prevented me from being shortlisted,” she recalls.

Based on her experience, Leong advises considering a change in your application method. “Using a headhunter can help you bypass the AI interviewer and potentially reach the HR manager directly. If the HR manager still holds biases, the headhunter can continue to look for other suitable job opportunities for you.”?

How can you enhance your application when reapplying for the same position? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below and/or in a post using #GetHiredAsia

• When to call it quits
• Here’s how first jobs shape your future
• Navigating the path to success
• Sidestep to success: Mastering lateral moves
• Making the case for a pay raise

Want to learn more about how you can prepare yourself to thrive in the workplace of the future? Keep an eye out for the next edition of the Get Hired Asia newsletter in two weeks’ time. Make sure you never miss an issue by subscribing here.

Reported By: Neha Jain Kale – LinkedIn News Editor covering jobs and career development in Asia.

Editor’s Note: Some quotes were edited for length and clarity.