DEAN NORRIS| FOUNDERS CIRCLE
Every year is marked by another defining trend in recruitment.
This year, for example, lay-offs and mass exodus from the big tech define much of the discussion in the industry.
Companies are looking to capitalise on this influx of talent. This paired with lay-offs to internal recruitment and people teams can make traversing hiring processes as a candidate a hollow, soulless experience.
So, what is the solution?
There is no de facto solution here. However, it's important to digest the available facts, some of which are outlined above. This will help you digest that there is entirely nothing 'personal' about your experience, or at least- you are not specifically being issued poor fortune. Here are some strategies and general rules that you can leverage which will aid your chances of landing interviews, and subsequently job offers:
Personal brand: This is not an ego-inflating exercise. It doesn't mean you have to post regularly about how great you are or remind people how smart you are. However, it does mean showcasing your abilities, investing time to add definition to your strengths, your interests and adding some personality to your digital portfolio. When it comes to digital portfolios, there is no better place than LinkedIn to really build out your network and attain interest from hiring companies and recruiters alike.
Optimise: This applies regardless of whether you're showcasing your CV on LinkedIn, or popular job board platforms, or you're submitting your CV directly to hiring companies. You must ensure your CV is optimised according to the algorithmic tendencies in which you're likely to be discovered. Recruiters use what is called a 'boolean search' which returns the profiles/CVs of individuals who list certain key phrases, technologies, etc.
Step 1) Search on LinkedIn for your current, or desired job title. You should then open the first 3 profiles that come up on this search. Look at their profile, and notice the skills that they have listed on their profile, and where they have listed their skills.
Step 2) Modelling your CV partially on the structure of these exemplar profiles, you should dissect your CV and add your key skills, relevant phrases and titles without compromising the integrity of your CV. It is important that you make this unique to you, and your own abilities. You will be using the examples merely to understand the structure which is most optimal for generating hits on LinkedIn.
Step 3) Showcase specific achievements and examples of where you have directly contributed to the success of the team and the wider organisation. From experience, CVs are often dismissed when they are unable to articulate direct examples of impact.
Step 4) Investing time in developing and nurturing relationships is a life-long commitment. Networking will undoubtedly have a positive impact on your career, but you cannot expect immediate gratification. Rather, by working the laws of probability, you greatly enhance your chances of meeting useful contacts(employers, recruiters, future colleagues, etc.) Compound networking events(you can use Meetup or Eventbrite) with accessing online networks(LinkedIn pages, Slack channels, etc.) and you'll be well on your way!
Step 5) Keep your skills fresh and relevant. Complete courses, certifications, badges, etc. Once completed, add these to your LinkedIn page so they become visible to prospective employers and hiring managers. Beyond demonstrating your experience, it will serve as a positive signal that you are a curious, dedicated individual.
Step 6) Keeping consistent with all of the aforementioned will bring you to your end goal, and place you for future success.
Should you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to anyone on the Founders Circle team!
