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How to Get Noticed by Recruiters
By: Shannon Jones
As an applicant, applying for jobs online or in person can be a daunting task, especially if you are doing so without feedback from the recruiter after you've been denied. Recent studies have shown that recruiters spend an average of six seconds reviewing an individual resume. Those seconds can pose a real challenge for applicants who want to be able to make a great first impression.
The first aspect job seekers may need to put into perspective is how recruiters work, and how hiring information is reviewed. Recruiters are pressed for time; their goal is to match as many job seekers as they can with the jobs that are available. One of the easiest and most impactful ways of providing a great first impression is by following directions. When applying for positions, make sure you read the vacancy announcement thoroughly so that you know what to submit where, as well as the appropriate point of contact, before actually applying for the position.
Applicants may think that following directions is irrelevant, but failing to follow the simplest instructions can result in dismissal from consideration.
Applicants can also stand out by implementing action verbs in their resumes. Action verbs communicate job experiences specifically, powerfully, and concisely. Using appropriate, job-specific action verbs will always catch a recruiter's attention.
Additionally, before an applicant even applies for a position, a winning portfolio provides recruiters with a preview of an applicant’s work and their accomplishments. When you are compiling your portfolio, make sure to tailor the portfolio to the job types that you are interested in pursuing.