Dear Experts, I just relocated to the Richmond, VA area and am applying to as many jobs as physically possible. While these aren't in any way related to my field, they're something to bring money in while I search and pursue internship opportunities. One thing I keep running into is applications that require me to be very specific regarding any job dismissals. Last year, I was fired from my factory job after being accused of vandalizing product. The quality standards had changed that morning, but no one changed the pictures in the standards book to include the new defect. Since the defect had been okay up until that morning, I was putting my inspection mark on them and packing them. I found myself being yelled at for making the mistake and was not listened to when I tried to explain the change hadn't been communicated. I attempted to push the box I had been working on off the skid to move it to a holding area and it tipped over, spilling the parts all over the floor. At this point, I admit I acted very poorly and threw one of the pieces back into the box. The head of quality for my shift saw me and went to the shift supervisor, who promptly accused me of vandalizing the parts. After being yelled at for so long, I was extremely upset. I was fired on the spot. Some of my friends who worked there as well informed me later the story of what I had done had changed over the course of the day from me pushing the box on purpose, to kicking it, to picking it up over my head and throwing it like the Incredible Hulk! I know better than to bad mouth a former employer and have a plan in place for the interview, but these questions on applications just absolutely terrify me. How do I be specific as requested on applications without ruining my chances for a job? Here is how our CAREEREALISM-Approved Experts answered this question on Twitter: Q#403 Why not just put that you left for a better opportunity or something? Explain IF you get an interview. (@beneubanks) Q#403 Simply put: "Threw part in box ... was fired for vandalism"; w/sound minute to HR reps, because it is. (@teenarose) Q#403 If app'n asks "were u let go?" u need 2 say yes, due 2 diffrnce of opinion. Rehearse SHORT explanation. (@juliaerickson) Q#403 Be honest about what happened, share what you've learned from the experience to show professional growth. (@jtodonnell) Our Twitter Advice Project (T.A.P.) is no longer an active campaign. To find an answer to the above question, please use the "Search" box in the right-hand column of this website.
This time of year offers special opportunities for job seekers. Holiday networking events, for example, can be great chances to meet professionals you might not encounter otherwise. Additionally, some employers are still eager to fill positions before budgets reset or headcount is finalized in the new year, making it a prime time to stand out with a strategic approach.
Here are five ways you can stand out from the competition this holiday season and find a job before the end of the year.
1. Showcase The Right Skills On Your Resume
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When updating your resume, focus on aligning your experience with the specific demands of the industry. Go beyond just listing responsibilities; dig into job descriptions to identify the core skills that consistently appear for your target roles. By tailoring your resume with these keywords, you not only capture the attention of hiring managers but also boost your chances of passing applicant tracking systems (ATS), which are often programmed to scan for these key terms. It's all about keywords!
During the holiday season, hiring managers are often managing tight timelines and high demands, making it crucial for candidates to demonstrate that they’re ready to hit the ground running. Highlighting industry-relevant skills shows you're not only familiar with the landscape but also equipped to make an immediate impact. Be sure to include examples of how you've leveraged these core strengths in previous roles to support team goals or tackle challenges (aka quantify your work experience). The holidays are hectic, so share with the potential employer how you'll be a positive addition to the team by leveraging your strengths and emphasizing your value as a business-of-one.
2. Dress The Part
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Don't underestimate the power of a great first impression. Dress for the interview in professional attire. Even if the job description mentions a casual dress code, such as jeans and a sweatshirt, it’s essential to show respect for the employer by dressing in a way that demonstrates your commitment to making a positive impression. Wearing attire that reflects your professionalism shows you care about how you're perceived and the impression you leave on others.
Not sure what to wear? We recommend dressing conservatively in clothing one level above what the current employees at the company are wearing. You want to look professional, but not like you don't fit in with the workplace culture.
3. Show Your Connection To The Company
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Employers like to hire candidates who have a passion for what they do. Why? Because when people are passionate about their work, that enthusiasm often translates into a higher level of commitment, creativity, and productivity. This intrinsic motivation can lead to consistently strong performance and a positive impact on the team and company as a whole.
In your disruptive cover letter (and during your job interview), demonstrate how and why you admire the company. Highlight what you love most about their products and services. Give examples of how you have personally used them in your own life with success. The more you can show them you understand and respect the business, the more likely you'll impress the hiring manager and move forward in the interview process.
4. Demonstrate Your Value
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It's important to remember that you're a business-of-one, and you're trying to sell the service you provide as a business-of-one to employers (the customers who will be paying you for the service).
To find a job during the holidays, you must adequately demonstrate your value as a business-of-one and highlight your strengths and the specific benefits you bring as a potential employee throughout the hiring process. How do you do this? Well, make sure to quantify your work experience on your resume. Use numbers to showcase your accomplishments. Clearly state how you'll make or save the company money with your employment. Do this, and you'll easily become one of the top candidates for the position.
5. Express Gratitude
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The holidays are busy for everyone. When you're applying for jobs during the holiday season, keep gratitude in mind. This positive mindset not only helps you stay resilient but also shines through in your applications and interviews, leaving a memorable impression on potential employers.
After every job interview, always send a thank-you note. It's just the polite thing to do, and you'll score more points with the hiring manager. Even if you get rejected, or never hear back about a position, make sure you send an email thanking the employer for the opportunity and wish them the best of luck with finding the right job candidate.
Don't be bitter. Be gracious. You never know what will happen in the future. You might want to apply for another job at the company down the line. So, don't let your frustration get the best of you. Remember: If you get rejected, they didn't say, "No, not ever." They just said, "No, not today."
A successful holiday job search depends on a solid strategy. Follow the guidelines above and land a job this holiday season!
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