17 Ways to Stand out in a Competitive Job Market

Job hunting in today’s day and age is difficult. You have to uniquely position yourself to stand out above the competition.

But how do you do that? You have to go against the grain. With employers receiving hundreds—or sometimes thousands—of applications, you need to make yours stand out. It sounds challenging, but there are some steps you can take that will automatically see your resume receive more attention than others.

We’ve scoured the job boards to see what employers are looking for in their next hire.

1. Establish an Online Portfolio

Everything is online these days. In fact, you probably applied to one or more jobs you saw on various job boards. So, it makes sense you would showcase who you are in an online portfolio.

This doesn’t have to be complex. Simply put a professional photo and list relevant information for the types of jobs you’re seeking. For example, you’d list your education and work history, any certifications you have, organizations you belong to, and your skills.

2. Network

This is so important for several reasons. For one, networking could potentially open you up to opportunities you might never have had otherwise. Sometimes, all it takes is knowing the right person to give you a leg up.

It’s easy enough to network. You can join professional organizations in your area or online, and stay in touch with people in the field, even if you’re not looking for a new job right now.

3. Speak With a Recruiter

Recruiters can be a good resource. Some have information on jobs that aren’t necessarily posted in public venues.

Recruiters are like any other professionals. You can choose who to work with, you don’t have to settle for the first one you talk to. However, if one reaches out to you with a prospective job, they will likely be the only one with the specs you need. As always, be wary of scams. You should never have to pay a recruiter for help finding a job. They are paid by the companies they work for.

4. Develop New Skills

This cannot be said enough. Don’t become complacent in your field, even if you think there’s no room for growth. As technology develops, so do the skills we need to succeed in the workforce.

There are many ways to learn new skills. You can go to school or take local courses, or you could turn to the internet. Online platforms like Coursera and Udemy make it easy to learn new skills, or you could watch videos on YouTube where others create skills videos.

5. Be Creative

Hiring managers receive tons of applications and cover letters that all start the same way. If you want to be pushed to the top of the pile, you’ll have to learn how to set yourself apart.

Be unique—but still professional—in your introductory letter, and let employers know why you’re different.

6. Join Professional Organizations

Not only does joining professional organizations look great on your resume, it shows that you’re committed to your field. These organizations often help with growth and networking.

If there are no local clubs in your area, join some online ones. Just make sure they’re legit before you hand over any money.

7. Show off Your Track Record

If you’ve been in your chosen field for any period of time, chances are you have an established track record. Now is the time to showcase this.

Many people think talking about their accomplishments is bragging, but not when you’re applying for a job. Your prospective employer is going to want to know what you’ve accomplished or how you’ve helped propel the industry or your past job forward.

8. Gain Relevant Experience

It goes without saying that to land most jobs, you have to have some type of experience behind you. This is where your previous work history comes into play, but also, if you volunteer in the field as well.

You can take on freelance or commission work, part-time jobs, or do an internship if you have no prior experience.

9. Never Stop Learning

The reality is no matter what field you work in, there’s always something new to learn. Technology advances. Laws change. Make it a point to stay on top of these developments as they happen.

Then, learn more. Do research into streamlining. How can you make your field better? This shows you have a real passion and employers love that.

10. Research Market Trends

Market trends tend to change quickly and if you’re in a field—think social media or web development—where these changes are constant, you have a duty to stay informed.

Before you submit your resume or go for a job interview, look into the current and past market trends. If your prospective employer asks about them, you’ll come off well-informed and knowledgeable in the field, which is a plus.

11. Prepare for Interviews

When you’ve landed an interview, you’d be remiss not to prepare ahead of time for it. Research the company that’s hiring, its past and present, its accomplishments, and its aims.

Then, run through some prospective interview questions ahead of time and have a friend or family member coach you. Make sure you have copies of your resume on hand, even if you sent it in digitally, and dress the part.

12. Be Flexible

One of the best things you can do as a prospective employee is remain flexible. Maybe the employer wants to try you on a contract or freelance basis, first. Perhaps after speaking with you, they have a different role in mind.

Either way, you’re being offered different pathways to employment. If you’re flexible, you’re more likely to make an impact. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have boundaries. If something sounds off, you’re well within your rights to ask questions until you’re satisfied.

13. Provide Good References

One of the best things you can do to showcase your experience and work ethic is to provide good references. However, we don’t mean send them the phone number of your closest friend or your grandma.

You want references within the industry, those who can attest to your level of experience and how well you adapt and thrive in any given environment.

14. Volunteer in Your Industry

Why volunteer, you ask? Because it shows you are dedicated to your industry. You also stand to gain a wealth of information by volunteering your time, not to mention the connections you’ll make.

Volunteering is another great way to network with folks in your field and to stand out when you’re looking for a new job.

15. Look over Your Social Media

Many people believe they should be able to post whatever they want on their social media sites, and that’s true, to an extent. However, be aware that what you post can come back to bite you, at least in the sense of trying to land a job.

Remember that your online profiles are a representation of who you are and your prospective employer will look to that to determine if you’re a good fit for the company’s environment.

16. Tailor Your Resume to the Job

It’s very easy to create a resume and send the same one out to multiple employers in hopes that one will bite. However, you should be tailoring your resume to the specific job at hand. Why? Because the skills and job tasks vary.

Most employers will at least outline what they are looking for, and if your resume doesn’t demonstrate your experience (or lack thereof) in that realm, it could end up in the trash.

17. Follow Up

Once you’ve had the interview, the most important thing you can do is follow up. It’s always a good idea to thank the hiring manager for their time and let them know you’re excited about the possibility of being hired (if you are).

Following up lets them know how serious you are about the position and may mean the difference between them picking you and another prospect.