Job searching can be a lengthy process, especially if you're just depending on the submission of your resume to job postings through job boards. On the other hand, if you are working with the right recruiters, they can put you in front of the right opportunities and help you get your dream job quicker.
Related: How LinkedIn Endorsements Can Improve Your Job Search Efforts
The fact is, there are some jobs that never even make it to job boards. Employers may hire a recruiter as the main avenue to finding the right job candidate, and if you've grabbed that recruiter's attention, you have a chance at the job.
How To Get A Recruiter's Attention On LinkedIn
So, the question now is how does one gain the attention of recruiters? Here are some tips.
Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
Every recruiter will seek talent through LinkedIn so if you're not on it, there's a slim chance you'll grab any recruiter's attention. Make sure your Profile is complete and contains keywords recruiters will use in their search. Optimize your Profile to contain the job titles and skills they are seeking so you get a high search ranking. See How To Keyword Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile for more information on this.
Be Active In LinkedIn Groups
Make sure you join LinkedIn's relevant industry groups as recruiters regularly scour groups to find talent. Start or join in discussions to make yourself stand out and showcase your strengths and expertise.
Get Recommendations
The person with over 20 recommendations will be called before the person with two. Spend the time to add recommendations to your LinkedIn profile under the relevant jobs.
Add Skills Endorsements
The same thing holds true for skills endorsements and you want to get as many endorsements as you can. Start by identifying the top five skills for your industry and start reaching out to people. This not only makes you stand out, but it is also a big part of how well you rank in recruiter searches.
Just remember, recruiters are highly motivated to fill their open positions, so it's not about hounding them for job openings, but demonstrating you have what they are looking for to fill the job.
Don Goodman's firm was rated as the #1 Resume Writing Service in 2013, 2014, and 2015. Don is a triple-certified, nationally recognized Expert Resume Writer, Career Management Coach and Job Search Strategist who has helped thousands of people secure their next job. Check out his Resume Writing Service. Get a Free Resume Evaluation or call him at 800.909.0109 for more information.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by a CAREEREALISM-approved expert.
A common interview question employers ask during job interviews is, "Why are you interested in this position?" They want to know why you want to work at their company, and the specific motivation behind why you applied for the job (not that you need a paycheck).
To persuade the employer that you have a true connection to the company and a passion for the job you applied for, your answer to this interview question should start with, "I'm interested in this job, at this company, because…" and then list at least three reasons why you want to work there.
Here is how you should structure your answer to the interview question, "Why are you interested in this job?"
Example: "I'm interested in this job because I can see that, in this role, my skills could help solve this problem within your company. I also see an opportunity for me to learn and grow these skills, so we both would benefit personally, professionally, and financially. If I can come in here and solve problems and accomplish your goals, I know I can develop my career the way that I want to."
This part of your answer lets them know that you are excited about what you will be able to accomplish for them, while still emphasizing what they are getting out of the bargain. You need to sell yourself as a business-of-one who can provide a service better than the competition.
Reason #2 – Cultural Fit
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Your second reason when answering, "Why are you interested in this job?" also shows fit, but in a different way.
Example: "Also, I like the culture of this organization. From what I've heard and what I've been reading about the company, it seems like a great fit for my personality and my values. I really connect with your mission statement, and feel passionate about the work that you do."
This is a general answer, so if you can be more specific by actually naming a couple of things you've heard or read about the company's workplace culture that you like, it will help your cause. This is one area where your pre-interview research is critical.
Does this company value and/or provide resources for employee development?
Mention those things that truly speak to you and your values so your sincerity shows.
Reason #3 – Personal Fit
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Wrap up your answer to this interview question with something that personalizes it a bit more.
Examples:
"And this job is in a great location for me. I've always wanted to move here."
"And this job is only five minutes from my house, so eliminating the commute is a big plus."
"And I've always used your products, and I just love them. I am really excited about being a part of that."
Say something that gives you another reason of your own for wanting this job. This interview answer is a fantastic place to let your enthusiasm for the job show. It's very appealing to employers, and it gives them one more reason to hire you.
Download Work It Daily's FREE list of common interview questions here.
You'll have a very clear and thorough answer to the question, "Why are you interested in this job?" if you follow the formula above. Set yourself apart from the competition today!
Are you struggling to answer other common interview questions? We can help.
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This article was originally published at an earlier date.
