A job interview is a difficult process for many potential employees, but getting to the interview stage is much more challenging. Recruiters receive a large number of applications, but there are steps you can take to make yours stand out enough to earn you a face-to-face conversation and an opportunity to sell your skills.
Research
Learn about both the company and the position you are applying for. By demonstrating knowledge of the business in your cover letter, you are showing the recruiter that you care enough about the job to have done your homework and that you will come in prepared. If you can learn about the person doing the recruiting, personalize your cover letter to that individual.
Qualifications
Only apply to positions for which you qualify. When stating your qualifications, highlight the ones that are pertinent to the position. Explain in your cover letter and during any phone or personal conversations how hiring you will benefit the company as opposed to how the job will benefit you.
Resume
Write your resume so that your accomplishments come first. Recruiters who have a pile of resumes to sort through will often just glance over each one for something that makes you stand out among the crowd. Proofread your resume for spelling, grammar and punctuation errors so that you exhibit professionalism before the recruiter has had a chance to meet you. If you would like your resume to remain on file for potential future openings, be sure to indicate this in your cover letter.
Follow-Up
Through your research, you have probably come across the email addresses and phone numbers of the recruiters you will be dealing with. Once you send in your resume, follow up with a phone call or an email to restate your interest, and ask if there's anything else you can do. Don't be overbearing, but keep yourself in the recruiter's mind. A follow-up shows you are interested in working for the company and are not merely blanketing the market with resumes.
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