Post-CNY Itchy Feet: How Job-Seekers Can Stand Out
Photo by Andrea Natali on Unsplash
In a typical year in Singapore, people start getting itchy feet and looking for new roles sometime around now, after the Lunar New Year break (and bonus period!). But this is 2021, another atypical year amidst the continued COVID-19 pandemic.
Recruiters like us here at Accela are seeing that employers are looking to retain and upskill their existing talent before they consider advertising roles for new employees. That means that if you’re set on looking for a new job, you’re going to face stiffer competition than in previous years, and you need to step up to really outshine your fellow candidates.
Some of the ways you can put your best foot forward include:
A refreshing CV: Once you’ve updated it with your latest roles, check to ensure that it’s clean, easy to read, error-free and well-formatted. Does it highlight the specific responsibilities you have had that will make you a good fit for the job you are applying for? Does it focus on your accomplishments? What are you most proud of? Put it in!
A LinkedIn that pops: Love it or hate it, recruiters will go straight to your LinkedIn. We love a well-written summary and your page should give us a good overview of you as a person. Add in any side projects you’ve worked on - it’s all experience, and it all counts.
Show your willingness to learn: In 2021 more than in any other year, employers are looking to hire people who are adaptable and willing to learn on the job. Think of examples of how you learned a new skill or adapted to a new way of working and make sure you add it to your CV or cover letter.
Get comfortable with the remote interview reality: Virtual interviews are here to stay, so get comfortable and learn how to put your best foot forward. This is a chance for you to demonstrate your soft skills. We’re likely going to be working remotely for a while, and your ability to communicate empathy and critical thinking needs to come across over video. Practice in front of the mirror or speaking to friends and family on video chat. You’ll get better the more you do it!
Prepare for your phone interview/screener call: Before you take a call from the recruiter, make sure you research the company and role, and prepare a list of questions that showcase just how interested you are in the position. You’ll want to keep your voice upbeat and positive on the call, so make sure you’re somewhere you can speak vibrantly and candidly (so you’re not whispering in the corner of your current office). It’s fine to ask the recruiter to call you back at a better time.
Make an effort: If you’re invited to an interview, make an effort to look your best, so the interviewer can imagine you in the role. Follow up with the interviewer afterward to thank them for the opportunity and let them know you’re very interested in the role.
We love nothing more than helping candidates accelerate their careers and land their dream job. If you’re looking for a change in 2021 and fit the skills and experience of some of the roles advertised on our site, we’d love to hear from you! Email your CV to [email protected].