10 Creative Ways to Wow Your Prospective Employer

 Finding the perfect job doesn’t come easy. Besides the job search itself, one of the toughest obstacles you face is convincing a prospective employer that you’re the perfect candidate for their open position.

Hiring managers have an even tougher position, however. They are faced with a multitude of applicants, few open positions, and a limited hiring budget. Their job is to make every job placement count.

So, just how can you be sure that you’re prepared to present your very best self to potential employers before, during, and after the interview?

It actually starts with your initial job search. And we’re here to break it down for you. Keep reading to learn more about WOWing your potential employer so you can land that dream job.

10 Creative Ways to Wow Your Prospective Employer

Hiring managers in today’s workforce are looking for employees that fit well in a diverse work culture. This means that you may be assigned tasks that require you to work in teams, individually, and even remotely. Which also means that you must be self-motivated, responsible, and capable of handling various projects in your role with the company.

With that said, you only have a few select opportunities to prove to that you’re the right person for the job. Here are some trusted tips to follow on your journey.

1. Applying for the Job

Applying for a job is kind of like an acting audition. For creative ways to apply for a job in acting, check out these tips.

If you’re just a regular ‘Joe’, it’s important to only apply for jobs that you qualify for. You can bet your bottom dollar that your application will be rejected immediately if the hiring manager sees that your skills are not a match. Save yourself some time and apply for jobs that you absolutely know you can tackle.

2. Cover Letter

One of the easiest ways to get a hiring manager’s attention is through your cover letter. It should be precise and to the point, while highlighting your key qualifications. Make sure you state the position for which you are applying in your cover letter as well.

Pay close attention to spelling and grammar before submitting your cover letter. You might be surprised at how many applicants are rejected simply because they didn’t use spell check.

3. Resume

Your resume should also target the position you’re applying for. Make a separate resume for different positions so that you can, again, highlight your most pertinent skill sets that are specific to the job description. A generic resume will get tossed because remember, the hiring manager is looking for someone amazing!

4. References

Provide references up front. Employers are interested in people that have an extensive network and providing references shows that you have a strong one. Also, a strong recommendation from a reliable source is reassuring to hiring managers.

While noting references, don’t forget to list any education you have. Hiring managers view educated applicants as well rounded and may be more likely to call you in for an interview over an applicant with little to no educational background.

5. Phone Screening

Many employers will conduct a pre-screening interview over the phone before offering an in-person interview. This helps them weed out applicants and save time.

Make sure you provide an accurate phone number and that you’re available to answer between 8-5 during the work week. Be prepared for a mini-interview and to provide the interviewer with your salary requirements. Also, have your own list of questions available to ensure that you can learn as much about the company before your actual interview as possible.

6. Scheduling

Especially if you’re already working in a current position, it’s important to be available for interview scheduling. You may want to take some vacation time or personal days from work to allow for this time. A surefire way to get rejected is to not be available when the prospective employer calls your name.

7. Job Application

Bring your resume with you when you go in for the interview. You will likely be asked to fill out a job application and much of the information can be pulled from your resume. Don’t just fill in the application with ‘see attached resume’.

Your application will be used to verify references, employment history, and perform criminal background checks if you are hired. Fill it out completely and accurately.

8. Making a Great First Impression

The most creative ways to get an employer’s attention involve the first impression. This starts from the moment you walk in the door to greet the receptionist. Don’t be rude to her, the hiring manager could be watching. Not to mention she’ll probably report the behavior as soon as you leave.

Also, keep your phone in your pocket. Unless you are providing information that is stored on your phone, there is no reason to have it out during an interview.

Don’t ask questions for which you could have found the answer on the company’s website. Don’t talk about religion or politics. And above all, don’t arrive late!

9. Interview Skills

Any traditional job that you’re applying for will inevitably ask you about yourself. Your interview skills can make or break or you no matter how qualified for the position you are. Make sure to practice with a friend or family member before the big day.

10. Follow Up

The last thing you can do to WOW a hiring manager is to follow up. Skip the email and make it personal with a thank you card or phone call. Good manners count.

Final Thoughts

Wowing your prospective employer really boils down to professionalism. You should always be yourself. But also keep in mind that some topics for discussion are better kept in your personal circles.

It may help to write down your accomplishments, both in your personal and professional life and keep a small note with you for the interview. It can be difficult to remember these things on the spot and your future employer will appreciate your organizational fortitude if you have something to reference when questions arise.

We hope you found the content herein to be useful. Before you go, take a look at this blog post that outlines the traits that employers are looking for when hiring. It could make a difference in how you compose your resume.