Getting Your Dream Job – Tips on Blowing Competitors Away!

So, you’ve found a posting for a dream job. But the question is: How to get it? This is often super overwhelming, whether you are a graduate student or looking for a job change. Below are some tips that will help you get the job you want.

Tip #1. Prepare to apply

Before you start working on a resume and hit the “send” button, we suggest you to spend some time on preparation:

#1. Conduct a self-assessment

Take time to assess your values, career goals and working habits. What do you want to get from this position? Will a fixed or flexible schedule work for you? What is the next stage for your career?

#2. Do research into the industry

First of all, undertake thorough research into the industry, possible career paths, and estimated salaries. Figure out if the industry works for you.

#3. Research the company

The next step is to research the company: Hit the internet and check out company employees’ reviews. Check if the company participates in career fairs or organizes open door days to learn as much as possible about their culture.

Tip #2. Carefully assess the product or service of your prospective employer

You will become a part of a team and it is vital to have a basic understanding of the key product offered by the company. If it is possible, start a trial or request a sample of the product. It will help you to familiarize yourself with the company and its products.

Tip #3. Do your paper work

The next step in getting your dream job is to do the paperwork. Some companies require a CV, others expect personal statements, recommendation letters and a pile of other documents. You should carefully check all the requirements before you apply for a position. According to recent findings, most recruiters only spend 10 seconds on an application before they decide to put it in the “approved” or “rejected” pile.

Your task is to keep it informative and brief. If you are a recent graduate or a final-year student and don’t have much experience, mention all the internships or volunteer experience you have that might fit the desired position.

You can also show how your skills match the role. For example, good communication, computer, and sales skills can be a great advantage in many careers. Think about people who can recommend you as a professional and create a list with their contact information.

If you are required to write a personal statement or cover letter, avoid making it too long or too short. In both papers you should briefly explain why you think you fit this position and what makes you the best candidate for the role.

Tip #4. Prepare for the interview

An interview is the next stage on your way to a dream job and you have to be ready for it. First, check the list of common interview questions. Sure, you can’t predict exactly what you will be asked, but consider some common questions:

• Why do you want to get this job?
• Why are you interested in this position?
• What are your greatest weaknesses and strengths?

Prepare answers that reflect your personality and will prove to the recruiter that you’ve done your research. You should also be ready for additional tests or evaluations during the interview, especially if the role requires certain skills: software developer, analyst, accountant, analyst, and so on.

Depending on the company, you might be asked to attend a few interviews: preliminary with a recruiter, technical with a team lead, and the final interview with the CEO. Some companies have a longer interview chain; while others limit it to one or two stages.

Don’t forget to prepare a few questions about the company. You might want to ask about benefits, schedule, and social guarantees, discuss your salary expectations, promotion process, and so on.

Tip #5. A day before the interview

Before you meet with the recruiter, make sure that you have printed hard copies of the documents you may need in the interview. This might include your resume, certificates and a copy of your diploma.

An applicant looks more organized and prepared when they have copies to present to interviewers. Don’t forget to have one for yourself as well. Write down your list of questions in case you forget them.

Need more advice on how to get your dream job? Check out the infographic by Custom-Writing.org.

Here you will find advice on how to write a resume, what to include and avoid, and tips on body language and how to successfully pass an interview.