This is according to Kay Vittee, CEO of Quest Staffing Solutions, who notes that with such a massive number of job seekers competing for far fewer positions, one needs to stand out from the crowd to be noticed and increase their odds of getting the job.
"After reading countless CVs and conducting interviews for days at a time, the January job rush can leave employers feeling demotivated, bored and longing for someone who stands out," Vittee said.
So how do you stand out? Vittee shares her top-four suggestions.
Your CV and cover letter are - in most cases - the first impression you make on a prospective employer, so why not make a positive and lasting impression with a well-written, truthful, relevant and concise CV?
Employers are not going to read each and every CV in detail; they will begin by merely skimming over, singling out those that catch their attention to read more closely.
In this regard, make sure to be concise, the document should therefore not exceed two pages. It is also important to lay out and structure your points in an attractive manner using paragraphs and clear headings.
If you are looking for a job in a specific industry, utilising your specific skill set, cut out any irrelevant information relating to training and experience in another field.
Your basic education should, of course, be included, then put emphasis on all your relevant training and experience.
Personal branding is an important factor in your career, both now and to remain relevant in future.
Every individual can be seen as his own personal brand ambassador and when combined with a clean digital footprint, personal branding is becoming a deciding factor by employers when hiring.
Personal branding communicates that a candidate has both dedication and passion for what he does.
Once you have created your personal brand, think carefully about how you market yourself to employers. Your options range from your CV to social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn.
If you have passed the first hurdle of being noticed by a prospective employer and have been called in for an interview, there are a number of factors to keep in mind to keep you on this winning streak.
Firstly, arrive on time, dress appropriately, be polite and pay attention.
Secondly, make sure to research the company and familiarise yourself with what it does, its clients and its vision and mission. With this understanding, jot down some notes on how you can add value to the company's existing structure and processes - use examples from your previous experiences.
It may also be a good idea to make a list of your credentials, success stories and goals beforehand. Read over these before you walk in, not only will this information be top of mind when you need it, but this will also give you a boost of confidence as you step in.
Lastly, relax! This may be the trickiest to master but it is one of the most important points. When a candidate is too nervous he becomes fidgety and does not communicate clearly (whether it be a slight stutter or going completely blank when asked a question).
Recruiters have special insight into recruiting trends and job opportunities with businesses in your area and industry. They also have relationships with companies and are therefore often the first to know about job openings, with a deeper understanding of the specific businesses culture and needs.
Looking into working with a recruitment agency can only work in your favour.
