In a highly competitive job market, it’s important to know what to expect when seeking employment. While every company is different, there are staples of the application process that a majority of businesses stick to. There are key steps you’ll need to understand, so you stand out and excel during the process. Whether working with an employment agency or looking for job on your own, below you’ll find a few suggestions you can use to help you find the position you’ve always wanted.

4 Critical Steps Toward Securing Employment

1. Create a Resume and Cover Letter

The first thing companies request is a resume and cover letter. This lists your skills, intentions, and why you’d be the perfect fit for your job of interest, to essentially sell yourself. It’s likely that you will be one of many applicants applying to the same position. Therefore, it’s important to be concise, clear, and unique to grab the attention of the hiring managers reviewing the applications. If you need assistance, work with an employment agency to help you draft an engaging cover letter and concise, yet thorough resume. 

2. Work With an Employment Agency

Finding job openings isn’t always easy. However, many companies list openings through an employment agency, so make sure to register with local services. Their staff can assess your skills, and then look for short- and long-term job opportunities. The employment agency will then connect you directly with companies who are in need of your particular skill set, and should your application make a good impression, they’ll reach out to schedule an interview.

3. Prepare for the Interview

If you make it through the application screening process, the company will set up a job interview, in which you’ll speak with a manager. Sometimes the initial interview is conducted over the phone, other times companies will want to set up something face-to-face the first go-around. Either way, the aim of this step in the hiring process is for the company to better gauge your ability as a prospective employee. The company will likely discuss job responsibilities, employee benefits, your skills, goals, and more. Plan on dressing to impress in professional attire. Also, because the interview is a very make-or-break step, conduct plenty of practice interviews with a friend prior to the real thing. If there is enough competition between applicants for the role, prepare for the possibility of a second interview, making sure your professional outfit is clean and that your conversational skills are on point.

4. Anticipate Additional Tests

Depending on the industry, the company may administer a test to filter out applicants. Tests may measure one’s proficiency with machinery, editing abilities, or may even be a basic assessment of your knowledge regarding the position itself. Whatever the case may be, prepare yourself for anything by doing significant research on the company and the role in advance, while also brushing up on those skills that would be relevant to the open position.

Since 2003, Talent HR Solutions has helped connect employers with reputable employment agencies and talent throughout the Honolulu, HI, area. In addition to its comprehensive talent recruitment services, the human resources management firm will also oversee your company’s payroll and employee benefits. For more information, call (808) 354-0498, or visit their website for a full breakdown of their services.