• FOCUS ON QUALITY. It’s usually more effective to target your efforts towards the opportunities that match your qualifications and goals most closely. You may want to figure out or hire a certified resume writer who knows how to make your resume stand out. Be clear about your purpose and then learn  how to customize your resume and cover letter.

• DEMONSTRATE YOUR VALUE. Show potential employers how you can contribute to their team. Do you know how to sell yourself in an interview? Consider reviewing instructions that will show you how to quanify your accomplishments on your resume and how to quantify results on your resume when your job ins’t big on numbers. Also, research companies. This way, you can discuss their unique needs.

• PROOFREAD CAREFULLY. Details count. You’ll look more professional if you avoid typos and misspellings. Try online editing tools like Grammarly and ask someone else to double check your materials.

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• CREATE A WEBSITE. Use a personal website in your job search. Many hiring managers care about your online presence. Provide links where they can learn more about you and see samples of your work. Make sure your social media pages make a positive impression too.

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• CONSULT A RECRUITER. Work with a recruiter to diversify your job search. Take advantage of professional expertise. Consider the culture of the staffing industry and be ready when the recruiter calls – dos and don’ts do matter and knowing the right etiquette always makes a difference.. Ask a recruiter to give you feedback on your strengths as a candidate and how to present them. Recruiters may also suggest additional resources and show you how to access the hidden job market.

• USE KEYWORDS. Remember the basics. Your materials may have to pass an initial screening by an ATS resume checker (applicant tracking system). Study the job description for what language to use. Customize your resume.

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• ACT QUICKLY. Moving your resume onto the interview pile sometimes comes down to timing. If companies receive a high volume of qualified applications, they may suspend the process. Completing your submission as soon as possible may give you an advantage. If and when you receive an interview invitation for a specific time, make yourself available. But if you are given an option, consider the advice on the best time to schedule a job interview.

1. STATE YOUR INTENTIONS. End your cover letter by letting the company know that you’ll contact them to learn more about the position and request an interview. You’ll seem confident and you’ll be able to show them that you carry through on a project. In the end, use a resume and cover letter checklist to make sure details are not missed.
2. MAKE THE CALL. You  have sent  your resume and you are not sure exactly what to say or how to say it, when it comes to makeing that resume follow up call. If possible, address your cover letter to a specific individual, so you’ll be able to phone them directly. In some cases, you might need to send an email instead. 
3. BE PROACTIVE. You might also want to call before you submit an application. If the hiring manager is willing to speak with you, you can make yourself stand out and gather more information.
4. USE YOUR NETWWORK. Be sure to check your contacts to see if you know anyone connected to the company who can give you a referral. Ask them for the specific help you need or let them suggest what they’re able to do. They might make a call or forward your application themselves. Consider simple networking ideas to find a new job.
5. LOG YOUR ACTIVITIES. What if you’re juggling so many openings that it’s difficult to keep track?7-ways-to-prepare-for-your-job-search.html Use an app or a simple spreadsheet to remind you when you need to take a next step. 
6. PRACTICE RESTRAINT. Respect the company’s wishes if they ask applicants not to call. But if that is not the case, be strategic about when to follow up, be considerate of their time, and be enthusiastic in your follow up without going overboard.