Navigating Year-End Job Hunting: Strategies to Stand Out and Stay Positive
As the year draws to a close, the job market may appear to slow down with companies winding down for the holidays. However, that doesn’t mean you should take a break from finding a career that’s moving forward. At KeHE, our recruiting team is busy year-round searching for authentic, passionate, fresh thinkers to join our team. Here are some valuable insights to help you stand out in the competitive job market. Plus, be sure to check out KeHE’s career opportunities.
Focus Your Search
We have several exciting career paths at KeHE, and while it’s tempting to cast a wide net, focusing on specific positions that match your qualifications is key. Rather than applying to a variety of openings across multiple functions, we suggest targeting your search on the openings that are best suited for your skills and experience. This shows the recruiting team you’ve given more thought to what your next best career move should be.
Present Your Best Self
Your resume is likely your first introduction to potential employers. Make sure it is not only up to date with current contact information, but also compelling. Highlight your achievements in each role, offering specifics on how you exceeded expectations, and avoid simply listing job duties. With potentially dozens, sometimes hundreds of other applicants with similar backgrounds, showcasing your unique contributions and emphasizing the skills and experience most relevant to the job opening can make a difference.
Be Prepared for the Call
Once your application has been reviewed by the recruiter, you should be ready for next steps. You are not expected to pick up the phone and interview on the spot, but maintaining an accessible voicemail, checking your email and LinkedIn messages regularly, and responding promptly will help move the process forward. If you’ve been scheduled for a phone interview with a recruiter, use that chance to prepare. Revisit the job description, explore the company’s website, and have well-thought-out questions ready. Be ready to share specific stories of your accomplishments and how you’ve used the required skills in real work situations.
Stay Positive
Job searching can be a challenging process, but don’t get discouraged even when you get passed up for what you thought was the “perfect fit.” Just because you weren’t hired for one job doesn’t necessarily mean you should cross that company off your list. Stay close to the organizations that best align to your values and priorities. Follow the company on LinkedIn, sign up for matching job alerts via email, and check in with the recruiter periodically. The perfect match might be just around the corner!
As the year comes to an end, it’s essential to maintain momentum in your job search. By following these strategies, you can position yourself as a standout candidate, even in a competitive market. Remember, the holidays may be a time of celebration, but they can also be a time of opportunity. Stay focused, present your best self, be prepared, and maintain a positive outlook as you navigate the path to your next career move. For KeHE recruitment questions, please email recruiting@kehe.com, follow us on LinkedIn, and learn more about KeHE careers and culture on Glassdoor.