Capturing the attention of a hiring manager at your ideal company has become increasingly difficult due to the popularity of the Internet. After all, it is now much easier for potential candidates around the world to learn about new job postings. It is also vital to have a firm grasp of the ever-changing world of technology for the majority of positions that are available today.
Fortunately, there are some techniques that you can utilize to help increase your commercial relevance, and this can help you land your dream job.
Tips for Remaining Relevant in Your Chosen Field
1. Continuing Education –
Regardless of the industry that you prefer to work in, it is always vital to continue your applicable education. For example, if you work in real estate, you will need to be able to demonstrate that you have attended annual education seminars if you want to stand out from other candidates. Keep in mind that every industry changes over time, and you will need to stay up to date on the latest uses of technology in order to be seen as a viable candidate.
2. Website Resume –
Many people create a website that allows them to expand upon the points that are listed in their resume. After all, if you are a graphic designer, you will need to be able to showcase your skills. However, you should not simply rely on placing the link to this site on your resume to help you find work. Instead, you should also work with an experienced SEO agency to tweak the website so that you can be found by employers worldwide who are looking for someone with your specific skill set.
3. Volunteer –
If you are between jobs, you should consider volunteering in a capacity that will help you increase your current level of technological knowledge. For example, if you are a website designer, you could volunteer to create a new site for a non-profit in order to help you learn how to apply your skills to the latest designer software changes. As an added bonus, you will be able to list this website on your resume as another example of your work.
4. Industry Blogs –
Getting your name known in a positive way throughout your industry will increase your level of popularity, and this could have an impact on an employer’s decision-making process. Therefore, you should volunteer to write guest posts for your industry’s most popular blogs. Additionally, if you have contributed anything new or significant to your field, you could also seek out blog interviews that will enable you to showcase your relevance while also capturing the attention of several potential employers.
Standing apart from the competition can be difficult, but as long as you use a professional resume and continue to receive industry specific education, you should be able to impress employers with your skill set and desire to remain relevant. It is also a good idea to work on increasing your industry popularity through blog posts and a well designed website resume.
Debbie Nguyen is an older freelance graphic designer who feared she had been left behind of current trends in design. She found her latest career change through an SEO agency by keeping an open mind about her abilities and capabilities.
Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/postcodelotterygreenchallenge/8202999766/