The Skills for Success when Job Hunting in 2021

There is no denying that 2020 was a challenging year for many, COVID-19 has had a huge effect on everything we do in the world of work. We are now working differently, prioritising differently and even collaborating differently. If you are looking for work in the 2021 job market, it will require a strategic and determined effort to stand out from the crowd. You must think outside the square and you must be willing to spend the time on each and every application you submit. 

Here are my top tips to help you in your job search in 2021:

Your Resume – you must ensure that your resume clearly sells your experience and skills, list your achievements in previous roles and express how your key strengths can add value to the job you are applying for. Include a brief cover letter and ask a trusted friend or family member to review before you send it.

Your Applications – Don’t use the same resume/cv in every application. Every employer is different and will be looking for different skills and experience. Research the organisation and read the advert clearly. Ensure you have addressed the key criteria that they have outlined. Tailor both your resume and cover letter accordingly. Want to impress? Address the cover letter to the person accepting applications. If it is not listed on the application, call the company and ask who is managing the process.

Your Interview – Preparing for your interview is key. Research the organisation, the team and most especially, the people interviewing you (most likely your future manager). Sell yourself. Don’t be afraid to expand on some of your key achievements and lastly, have some questions of your own to ask at the end. It’s totally okay to walk into an interview with a notebook and refer to your notes/questions when you need to.

2020 – Many will have gaps during 2020 and most people won’t go into much detail as to why you were not working during this year, as many others have been in the same situation. However, you may be asked how you spent your time or what you learnt from your experiences during the past year. Did you develop and upskill yourself, did you join an association, volunteer at a local charity or complete further education or a short course? Showing how you used your time productively demonstrates an impressive commitment to your field.

Your LinkedIn Profile – Is it up to date? Have you grown your network in your proven field, followed relevant content/experts and contributed to content? If not, ensure that you have done so. Follow the companies that you are interested in working for, find out more about their employees and like or comment relevant content.

Be Flexible – This goes for many aspects of a role, but be aware of what the salary may be that is on offer. This will change depending on the location, level of responsibility, etc. Do your due diligence, even call a trusted recruiter but make sure you are aware of what the market value is of that position. Many companies have pre-set salary ranges for a given position and will offer within that range relevant to your experience. IF you are working with a recruiter, let them know you are open to negotiation or if there are other benefits that you would like. Some people prefer more flexible working options and many companies are now offering working from home options a few days per week.

Remember adaptability is key in 2021. Wishing you success in your job search.

Eva Grabner

Managing Director

Elite Executive Pty Ltd

www.eliteexecutive.com.au

Cairns | Brisbane

Ph: 07 4088 1571