When you submit a job application, you could be up against hundreds or even thousands of others. It’s hard to stand out in the crowd, but there are things you can do to improve your chances of getting an interview.

This week’s guest expert is Jenn Swanson. Jenn reminded us of simple mistakes that can sink your job application: if you missed key details, didn’t follow instructions, or submitted your attachments in the wrong format.

There are many reasons you didn’t get an interview. The top two:

• You’re just not qualified.
• You didn’t customize your resume and cover letter.

Jenn also shared advice for applicants to figure out what the hiring manager really wants, how to write your resume to get through automated applicant tracking systems, and land an interview for your dream job.

Our Guest for This Episode: Jenn Swanson

Jenn Swanson is the host of the Communication Diva podcast and the author of What They See: How to Stand Out and Shine in Your New Job. Through her podcast, online courses, coaching, and book, Jenn helps you get the job, love your work, and  advance your career.

Jenn also shared a discount for our listeners on her Resume Short Course! Get the discount here.

Ben’s Job Search Resource: 41 Great Resume Formats

Resume formatting is tricky. You want to show off your creativity and personality, but your resume also needs to be easy to read and scannable, both by human reviewers and applicant tracking systems.

Ben recommends checking out The 41 Best Resume Templates Ever from The Muse to find resume inspiration and find a customizable template.   

Find Your Dream Job Listener Question: Resume Reword

This week’s question comes via email from Juan Llera of Jersey City, New Jersey:

“My question: do you know of any resources that you can share that can assist me in rewording my resume. I had a long career in the insurance industry and most recently with their IT department. I would like to look for a position in the non-profit organization. I would like to revise my resume from an insurance-IT to a non-profit focus.”

These segments are sponsored by Mac’s new book, Land Your Dream Job Anywhere. The book offers practical, actionable, and proven tools to help you get clear about your career goals, find hidden jobs, and ace your next interview. Get the first chapter of this useful resource free.

Be a part of the Find Your Dream Job podcast! Join in:

• Ask your job-related question! Email it to [email protected], or leave us a message at 716-JOB-TALK. If we use your question on the air, you will receive either a copy of our new book, Land Your Dream Job Anywhere.
• Share your best job resource with our listeners! Send your resource to [email protected], and tell him how it has helped you find your dream job.
• What do you think of our show? Rate and review our podcast on iTunes. We appreciate your support!

Opening and closing music for Find Your Dream Job provided by Freddy Trujillo, www.freddytrujillo.com.

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