​4 Simple Ways To Increase Your Chances Of Getting A Job Interview

It is estimated that approximately 2% of the applicants who apply for a single position get interviews across all fields. Out of the 2%, only one gets hired.  So, what happens to the other percentage?

I was talking to Mrs. Grace Kimani, a recruitment manager at Corporate Staffing Services and she highlighted that 75% of the applications she receives when shortlisting for a particular position are from unqualified or overqualified candidates. I am sure you don’t want to be one of these.

In her opinion, many job seekers apply for jobs for which they don’t meet the minimum requirements highlighted by the employer.

Just put yourself in the recruiter’s shoes for a minute. You have to go through numerous job applications each day, hoping to find the best candidates who meet the employer’s needs.

The good news is, despite the competitive market, you can easily improve your chances of getting an interview and even a job if you follow these few tips

1. Ensure your CV is professionally written

Having your CV updated is the first step in your job search process. Before anything else,  ensure the Cover Letter and CV are ready to go.

Anytime you see a position you are qualified for; you have to personalize your application to fit the job description and company. Master the required skills, and keywords and incorporate them into your CV.

Pay attention to the simple typos or spelling mistakes that can cost you opportunities.

You see, in this competitive job market, potential employers can use the slightest mistakes to narrow their search and select the best few for an interview.

Do you think they would pick someone whose application is filled with errors? They want someone who can do his/her work without mistakes. So, watch out for the misspelled words on your CV.

Alternatively, it is advisable to find a professional CV expert to review and edit your CV before making any applications.

2. You need to apply early

According to Mrs. Kimani, a single job post can attract an average of 200 applications, yet only one candidate is needed for the role.

Now, imagine the case where you’re applying for a job in a popular company like Safaricom or Google. Do you think you will make it to the interview stage? The answer is yes.

What do you do? Ensure you apply for the job immediately after it is advertised on job boards. You are qualified on your own level and the earlier you submit your application, the better your chances will be to be reviewed properly by recruiters.

3. Apply for the jobs you are qualified for

A friend of mine recently called me. He was still jobless and asked if I could recommend him “anywhere’ for an internship. He claimed to have made over 200 job applications yet he’s never been invited for any interview. I know he’s qualified, but I found out that he’s applying for any job that he comes across.

Maybe you’re in a similar situation, and you are almost giving up. It is time to change your way of doing things. Apply for specific jobs you certainly qualify for. Do you have the years of experience needed? Check the industry.

You could be qualified, but the employer wants someone who has worked in a different industry than you.

Instead of focusing on the number of applications you submit, always find out if the position you are applying for matchesyour qualifications.

4. Build relationships with key professionals in your field

When you are looking for a job, networking is very essential. Did you know you can easily get a job through a referral? Being recommended by someone you know to the person they know can greatly separate you from thousands of applicants.

This is because this person is already trusted by the employer and he/she understands the demands and expectations of the job. Even the hiring costs will be minimized.

Use social media platforms to network especially LinkedIn where you will meet beneficial contacts. Let them know you are looking for a job. Most likely they will recommend you to their open opportunities.

Final thoughts…

As you look for new opportunities, use these tips to strategize your job search. Update your CV, apply early for specific jobs, work on your connections, and prepare well.  The road to getting an interview and even a job will be easy and smooth. In the end, you will shine when the right opportunity arises.