The job market is changing, and so too is the way people find jobs. The combination of technological and cultural shifts, along with economic conditions, has created some fundamental changes in the hiring process. From the ways job seekers find and communicate with potential employers, to the ways employers evaluate candidates, there is no doubt that things are changing rapidly.
If you are going to be successful in your job search, it is important that you keep up with these current shifts. Here are five trends that you should know about in approaching your job search.
- Technology is taking over, and employers are struggling to keep up. It is no surprise, as more and more aspects of our lives today are governed by technology, that much of the job search process today is handled digitally. What may be surprising is that much of the process is already and will soon be handled through mobile apps. Candidates will be able to find and apply for jobs entirely through their cell phones and tablets. This may be great news for younger job seekers, who are used to the ease and instant feedback of mobile technology. For employers, however, this rapidly evolving technology has them scrambling to keep pace. With employers overwhelmed by the size and pace of the current application process, it is more important than ever to create an application that will make you stand out from the crowd.
- Social media is king. Employers are increasingly turning to social media sites like LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter to find and connect with potential candidates. LinkedIn, in particular, is a great resource, as it allows job seekers to provide employers with a more personal and vivid portrait of themselves than they would be able to express on a resume. It also makes it easy for employers and job seekers to search for each other and connect based on interests and events.
- Resumes are evolving. Even resumes today are evolving to meet the current technological and cultural trends. Rather than just a document with information on a candidate’s experience, resumes today and going forward will be focused less on content and more on links to work samples, websites, videos, and infographics.
- Writing samples. More and more employers today are asking for writing samples along with the usual resume and cover letter. Being able to write well is an essential skill for many positions, and employers want to make sure a candidate’s writing ability is up to par.
- Group interviews. Finally, with the job market currently flooded with qualified candidates, and employers pressed for time and resources, many employers are opting to interview potential candidates in groups rather than individually. Job seekers should be prepared either type of interview and the differences they may present in terms of approach.
For more information on finding and succeeding at your dream job, turn to Job Store Staffing®. At Job Store Staffing®, we have the experience and expertise you need to assist you with all aspects of your job search. If you are looking for a job in the Denver area, be sure to contact us today.