Inching our way further into the new year means resolutions off all kinds are in their early–and hopefully effective–stages. For many individuals, this year’s resolution came in regard to their employment status. To ensure the success of your employment-related resolutions, it’s important to stay up to date on the latest workplace and job search trends.
Reference checking company, Allison & Taylor, has provided six employment trends every job seeker needs to be on top of in 2013:
1. Increased Value In References
Your references should no longer be treated as an afterthought. Although the job climate is showing sign of improvement, hiring managers are still being faced with surplus of eligible candidates. While a resume will get you an interview, a report from your former employers or co-workers might be just what you need to beat out other candidates in the race for employment. A thoughtful reference list containing full contact information is an absolute must for a successful job search.
2. Adapting To More Powerful Reference Formatting
A simple list of name is not longer an effective way to impress potential employers. Your reference list should make a powerful statement of your qualifications–further showcasing your abilities and achievements. Modernize your reference list by including the attributes those listed can attest to. Job seekers should be sure to tie their qualifications in with the key job elements being sough by potential employers.
3. The Utilization Of Peers And Co-workers As References
Reference lists are no longer exclusive to former supervisors or human resource professionals. The current state of the job climate has left employers seeking out less-traditional references such as peers and co-workers. Use this trend to your advantage by striving for more successful relationships in the workplace. Your previous and current associates have the potential for being key advocates in your current or future job search. Also, prospective employers don’t require permission to check any reference.
4. Continued Vigilance In The Face Of Workplace Bullying
Unfortunately, a new year hasn’t put an end to on-the-job bullying. Job seekers should increase their awareness about the adverse effects of workplace bullies at their current or future place of employer. Whether covert or blatant–all forms of bullying are harmful and should be taken into consideration in the face of an issue.
5. Increased Use In Electronic Reference Systems And Social Recruitment
Those embarked on a job search should be aware of the utilization of electronic reference systems used by many employers to rank their employee’s performance on a scale. While comprehensive and factual, it limits the opportunity employers have to favorably assess a candidate. When departing from a company, it’s important to negotiate the terms of your reference. It’s also important to review all of your professional social media platforms to ensure prospective employers won’t come across any information that places you in a negative light.
6. Accomplishment-Driven Interviews
Consider giving your job search a boost by focusing on previous accomplishments or instances where your efforts helped avert a crisis. Keep a list of these important scenarios to use as comprehensive and knowledgeable responses during interviews. This will work in your favor to set you apart from other candidates.
Improving your job search to get hired in the new year isn’t an easy feat. Keep your employment resolutions in check by staying on top of these workplace trends.
How do you plan to stand out from the crowd during your job search?
