Written by Flavia Martinez, Career Peer Lead
When it comes to applying for jobs, you have probably heard a lot about resumés. What they are, how to make one, what to include, what to avoid, how long it should be...all these questions might pop into your mind.
However, in our effort to create the perfect resumé, we often forget that it is just one part of the job search. Even a strong resumé may not be enough to get you an interview.
Why your resume isn't enough
The reason is simple: a resumé can show an employer that you have the experience and skills needed for the job, but it cannot fully show them who you are, how you work or why you are enthusiastic and passionate about joining their team or organization. You become just another number among the thousands of applications they receive.
This is why it is so essential to make sure you take additional steps during the application process, such as:
- Submit/send a cover letter with your resumé, even when it is not required.
- Network with someone from the company or organization.
What is a cover letter
Firstly, a cover letter is a one-page document formatted as a letter and addressed to the hiring manager or hiring team of the company/organization you are applying to. Sometimes, the Hiring Manager (the person deciding if you are getting the job or not) is the same person you are going to be working with. Other times, the Hiring Manager is more of a Hiring Team or Committee, made up of more than one person.
The purpose of a cover letter is as follows:
- Express your interest in the position and the company.
- Give a little bit more detail about certain important experiences and skills.
- Act as a complementary document to your resumé, not a repetition of it but in a different format
- Showcase how YOU (your personality, interests, values in addition to your skills and experience) match the company/ organization values.
Exception: Although I said you should always include a Cover Letter with your Resumé, even when it is not required, there are a few exceptions:
- When the application instructions specifically request that you to NOT submit a Cover Letter
- When the application instructions make it clear that they ONLY want your Resumé.
Conclusively, always submit a Cover Letter unless explicitly told not to do so. Following application instructions is one of the most important steps, as it shows that you took the time to read the job posting and respond thoughtfully.
What is networking
Finally, networking is the process of building professional relationships with people. You can network with professionals in your field, fellow students, talent acquisition specialists, or employees working at companies you are interested in.
While many people think of networking as a way to land a job, it can be much more than that.
- Networking can be a great way to find a mentor, someone who has already gone through what you are experiencing and can guide you, advise you, and support you throughout your professional journey.
- Making a good impression on the people at the company you are applying for.
- Getting a recommendation for a job.
- Getting insight into the hiring practices in your field or at a company you are interested in.
When approaching networking, it is always best to be respectful and considerate of the other person’s time.
It is important to avoid sounding too demanding. At the end of the day, these professionals do not owe us something. Any help, advice, tip or referral they offer must come from their genuine desire to help you, so they feel like you are demanding their help, there is a higher chance they won’t want to support you. Â
Be as genuine as possible in your interactions, while also recognizing that there is no single strategy that works for everyone.
Networking online (via LinkedIn, for example) may require more concise and professional messages, while in-person networking allows you to show your personality a little bit more.
The best advice? Practice! The more you do it, the more you will learn what works, what doesn’t, and what feels comfortable for you.