Six tips for applying for your dream job

Looking for a career change? Here are six tips for applying for your dream job.

There’s nothing as exciting as advancing through your career and discovering an opening for your dream job. This experience can happen at any time in your life — in fact, you might have various dream jobs throughout the course of your career.

When that opportunity arises, it’s important to act quickly and strategically. Here are six tips for applying to your dream job that will help you secure an interview and make an impact.

1) Craft a compelling resume and cover letter

The first step in applying for your dream job is to craft a compelling resume and cover letter. If this task isn’t something you feel comfortable handling yourself, it’s well worth the investment of hiring a skilled resume writer. These professionals know which questions to ask you in order to best highlight your experience, as well as what skills to include, and how to layout your information in an aesthetically pleasing and tech-friendly manner. 

Keep in mind that many companies use AI-driven applicant tracking systems (ATS) that scan for keywords, so your resume should appeal to both humans and computers. Take some time to vet and select the best possible writer that can identify what the industry is looking for and knows how to create that connection with your skills and experience.

2) Audit your online presence

Before you apply for the job, go through your online profiles with a fine-tooth comb. Remove anything that could be viewed as inflammatory or controversial. Remember that you have freedom of speech, and you have a right to share those ideas on social platforms. However, an employer has equal right to oversee how their company is represented through its employees.

Take this time to update your profiles and ensure your employment history and education are accurate. It’s never too late to start sharing industry-related content with your personal take to establish your interest and expertise in your line of work.

3) Showcase your value

Don’t be intimidated by the qualifications listed on a job posting. When in doubt, apply anyway. Then, do the work to showcase your value and how you can benefit the company.

Your resume shouldn’t just be a timeline of your employment. Identify what you brought to the table for each employer, using clear examples, quantifiers, and skill rankings. Again, a talented resume writer can help you brainstorm these points and convey them in a compelling fashion.

4) Thoroughly research the company

Landing the dream job isn’t just about describing yourself in an appealing way; it’s about knowing the company inside out. Set aside time to read everything you can about the business to which you’re applying, from their organizational structure to their philanthropic endeavors. Familiarize yourself with the company mission and values, as well as the key characters in the organization.

This information will be invaluable during your interview. Use the knowledge you’ve gleaned to make connections between your experience and their brand. Your efforts won’t go unnoticed.

5) Start networking yesterday

Ideally, you’ll start networking before your dream job hits the market. However, if you haven’t, the second best time to start is right now.

Scan your network and see what possible connections you have with people in the organization. Don’t hesitate to reach out to shared contacts and ask for an introduction. If you can secure an introduction, ask a few intelligent questions about the position and the company as a whole.

Use social media to your advantage by commenting and engaging with the brand online. Be enthusiastic, but be authentic as well.

6) Practice your storytelling skills

Finally, brush up on your storytelling skills. Revisit your experiences throughout your career and flag examples that might come up in commonly asked interview questions. Practice introducing yourself and summarizing your professional experience.

With these key actions, you can improve your chances of landing an interview for your dream job and securing that position.