Every job seeker should be aiming to create as positive an impression as possible with all prospective employers. Even if an employer does do not hire you, chances are your paths will cross again.

So, when job seeking, how can you distinguish yourself?  People are often remembered because of distinctive features - such as an unusual hobby, a noteworthy career break taken or a significant achievement. However, what also impresses employers is relatively basic stuff - such as a person’s smile, their level of energy, their clarity and originality. Outlined here are tips on simple ways to distinguish yourself when you are job seeking.  

Easy to Read CV

Sometimes, being remembered is simply a matter of doing ordinary things well. Potential employers are busy and often review hundreds of CVs. For this reason, it is important to make your CV easy to read. Follow the basic rules of drafting a good CV.

Impressive First Page

The first page of your CV is the critical part. It needs to engage the reader if you want to ensure that your CV is read in full. To optimise the first page of your CV, start by researching your target roles and making a list of the most important candidate requirements. Then, ensure that you add as many of the candidate requirements as possible to the front page of your CV in order to instantly show prospective employers that you are a good fit for their role.

Value

When an employer hires a new member of staff, they are making an investment in that person. They will want to get a return on their investment. So, when writing your CV and taking part in an interview, you should always try to provide examples of the worth that you contributed to previous employers. Illustrate the worth that you can now bring to a new employer.

Interesting Stories

When preparing for interview, remember that what you might consider mundane could be of significant relevance to an interviewer. Write down a completely unedited list of everything important you have done and learned. Then, seek help from a trusted friend or professional to edit this material. A key communication skill is turning seemingly dull facts into interesting stories that others will remember about you.

Mock Interviews

When practicing interviews, use the opportunity to share your stories and achievements with the facilitator. Watch their reaction. Can they identify aspects of your experience that should be highlighted or lessened at interview?

Genuine Enthusiasm

It impresses an interviewer when they sense how much a candidate wants to work for them. Don’t be afraid to communicate energy. It leaves an extremely positive impression.

Integrity

Be yourself as much as possible. It is easy to become robotic and rehearsed in an interview due to anxiety. We are all impressed by people who are personally happy and confident.

Remember that distinguishing yourself with employers is not a chance event. It is something you should work on from day one of your job search.