As a job seeker, the labor market is your oyster. At least, on paper: there is still low unemployment and high demand for people. Yet some find it difficult to find a job. That is why we have collected a number of tips to increase your chances of applying for a job. On to that new job!
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Networks, networks, networks…
Many people think that their network doesn't mean much or can't make a difference. We think differently about that. That's why our first tips are about getting the most out of your network – or building your network.
Not all vacancies are posted online
Reorganizations, departing employees, new customers or new projects often lead to vacancies quite late. Useful if you have been informed earlier through your network. By the way, almost a quarter of people actually find a job through their network. It is therefore a missed opportunity if you do not use your network.
The Rise of Referrals
A 'referral' is an applicant who has been referred by someone who already works at the organization. You have seen this trend in the IT industry for years and bonuses are also paid out for it. More organizations are now looking for new colleagues through the network of their own employees. Many studies show that referrals lead to better hires: they are trained more quickly, match the culture better and therefore stay with the organization longer.
No big network? Nonsense!
Everyone has access to a large and relevant network. Think about who knows a lot of people in your area. Perhaps this network is not so relevant to you, but that person can introduce you to the person who does have a relevant network.
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Bypassing the motivation letter
Many organizations still ask for a CV and motivation letter. Many applicants sink their teeth into yet another new CV or updated motivation. How can you avoid that 'annoying' motivation letter?
Call the organization
Often a recruiter's phone number is at the bottom of the vacancy text – sometimes even that of the supervisor or someone who is currently doing the work. This way you can verbally explain why you are so enthusiastic. In many cases, saves a written motivation!
Walk in at a (reception) location
You can't just walk into every organization, but you can in many. Ideal to sample the atmosphere, have a chat with the receptionist or recruiter, or get in touch with future colleagues. This tip is ideal if you appear better face-to-face than on paper.
There it is again: your network
When someone suggests you, that person may have already told you a few things about you. Moreover, you are often one step ahead of the rest and are therefore (sometimes) not asked to write a motivation.
Have you completed one of these three steps and do you still need to write a motivation letter? Do not forget to mention that you have previously contacted or were referred.
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Prepare for the job interview
Did you follow the tips above? Then of course you made it to the job application table! During the job interview, some questions always come up. We list them below so that you can practice.
Introduce yourself.
Your personal pitch or introduction is an introductory story about yourself. You don't have to list your entire resume here yet. Please indicate briefly your most important work experience. You are also welcome to tell us something personal about yourself.
Where do you see yourself in 1, 2 or 5 years?
Many find this a difficult question. And it is… If you are not sure where you see yourself in 5 years, indicate what you would like to develop in the coming year.
What do you think you can add to our organization?
It is useful to know what you are really good at. What competencies or experience do you possess that others do not? You can also ask this question to former colleagues if you find it difficult to answer yourself.
What about our organization appeals to you most?
This question often tests whether you have immersed yourself in the organization. It is therefore useful to take a look at the organization's website. The same goes for their platforms, such as LinkedIn.
Do you have any questions yourself?
Sometimes all your questions have already been answered during the conversation and you have nothing more to ask. Still, it's better to make one anyway. You can therefore ask about the follow-up in the application procedure: when can you expect a response, will there be a second (or perhaps even third) interview and who will that interview be with?
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Ask questions yourself!
Finally, we want to help you with smart questions to ask in the job interview.
What appeals to you in my resume (and motivation)?
Useful to know on the basis of which you have been invited for an interview. This way you immediately know which positive points someone has taken from your CV and what you can elaborate on further.
How will the organization or this department develop within 1, 2 or 5 years?
Handy to test whether you agree with this change. Moreover, you may already be able to offer a solution to contribute to this development.
What do you like most about working at this organization?
This is a good way to get more of the atmosphere or culture of the organization. You can also test whether this corresponds to values that you find important.
What kind of person wouldn't fit here?
It is not wrong to ask a critical question every now and then. This way you turn the tables in the conversation. Let's hope that these personal characteristics do not match yours...
Can I see the rest of the office?
You often conduct the job interview in a confined space and therefore cannot see where you are
possibly work. This way you can still get a taste of the atmosphere, in advance of your future
get to know colleagues and you distinguish yourself from the rest of the applicants.
More information
Hopefully this article will be of great help to you on your next job application. If you have more questions about applying for a job, you can always ask our experts via our Service Center. This can be reached on every working day from 8.30 am to 17.00 pm via sc@unie.nl and 0345 851 963.
PS Would you like to know more about how to write a good resume or set up your LinkedIn profile?
Then also read this article with our 5 practical do's & don'ts for CV and LinkedIn.
