Applying for lots of advertised roles but getting screened out?
Or just not hearing anything back? Frustrating isn’t it?
These 12 steps to getting more interviews could substantially increase your ‘strike rate’. Apply them consistently and see what happens.
No cast iron promises or magic bullets here. Just a simple, targeted approach that should help you get more interviews if you work the process consistently.
Be Proactive not Reactive
Many job seekers are far too reactive in their approach to their job search. They just fire off generic applications and hope someone will call back.
Here’s how you can change the game:
Before you apply – first 9 steps
- Your application will probably go through an automated keyword scan in an Applicant Tracking System (the dreaded ATS). Draft a tightly targeted cover letter using the actual wording from the selection criteria in the advert. This will help you to survive this first filter
- Identify a couple of items of information the advert does not give you. Formulate two questions based on this that would help you to decide whether to apply. This makes them legitimate questions.
- Do everything you can to get someone on the phone at the employer or recruitment agency running the advert. If that means ringing their office and asking the receptionist if there is someone you can speak to, do that. If you have to leave your number, assume no-one will return you call. That avoids disappointment and frustration. Just make a note to call again in a few days
- Ask your questions.
- Request a position description.
- Ask if they would like a copy of your application by email as well as via the “Apply Now” button. Be ready to answer some initial screening questions. Make sure you have your elevator pitch ready.
- Use what you have learned from the call and the position description to tailor your letter even more specifically. Do the same to your resume
- Now you are ready to submit your application. If it is online only, follow their instructions regarding uploading cover letter and resume
- If sending your application by email, create a single PDF document that contains your cover letter and resume. With only one attachment for them to open there’s less chance that they will ignore your carefully crafted letter
After you apply – next 3 steps
- After 2 or 3 days at most make a follow–up call. Try to reach the same person you spoke to before. This is to check that they can open and read the resume you submitted, even if you received confirmation. I have seen many instances of documents being corrupted and unreadable despite the confirmation. I’m certain you will be one of the very few applicants who bother to follow up
- If you are feeling brave, ask if they have had a chance to read your application. And if they have, ask for a reaction
- Find out when they might be calling people to arrange interviews. Get permission to follow up again in a few days to see if they have read your application. This way, you won’t waste energy wondering if they are still likely to call you back
Just do the work! What do you have to lose?
Now I realise that this isn’t going to magically deliver an interview every time.
But if you follow these 12 steps to getting more interviews you will definitely feel more in control and you should experience a better ratio of interviews to applications.
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