Stand out from the crowd in 2023
Time is moving so quickly, with a New Year already upon us. After a difficult 2022, businesses will have a number of vacancies to fill in amidst of the ongoing talent shortage. So, how can you attract the attention of hiring managers and secure that dream role? If you are searching for a new position, this guide advises on how to stand out from the crowd in 2023.
Use research to demonstrate understanding
When applying for a new role or preparing for an interview, you probably conduct some basic research of the company, it’s history and familiarise yourself with the job description. While this provides a starting point, a hiring manager does not want to ask what your knowledge of their company is for you to reply with ‘the company was started in 1973 in a person called Vincent’. They already know that.
Instead, spend time researching the company’s vision and values, find what matters to them and align that with the skills you have to demonstrate what impact you can make given the chance. Analyse annual reports to familiarise yourself with terminology used and show an understanding of the company culture, stating how you will be a perfect fit for the team.
An interview is your only chance to make a lasting first impression and leave the hiring manager thinking ‘This is the person for us’. Committing to go the extra mile will benefit you hugely when it comes to the interview and help you stand out from the crowd.
Add some personalisation
In preparation for an interview, you may be asked to prepare a strategic plan, presentation on a chosen scenario or written task designed to provide solutions to an ongoing problem faced by the business.
Before completing this, spend some time getting to know the company’s branding and how they present, then utilise this throughout the task. If you are asked to prepare a presentation, use the company colour schemes and fonts found on their respective website. Or when writing a strategic document, refer to company values and reference back to these throughout.
Added personal touches will, if presented correctly, help create a sense of understanding between you and the company. This will help the hiring manager start to imagine you in the role and go a long way to convincing them you are the candidate of choice.
Make it easier for the hiring manager
Conducting thorough research gives you tools needed to demonstrate the value you can bring to a business. If you are asked to outline a CSR strategy, find what initiatives are in place already and identify any charities the business is working with. You can then use these to suggest additional plans moving forward, or suggest changes you would make in order to deliver more success for the company.
In an interview for a finance role, you may be asked to provide a prospective budget for the next 12-month period for the business. Analyse last year’s reports to help identify areas the budget could be allocated more efficiently and find accurate market costings to support your proposal. Well-conducted research will demonstrate the impact you can have if successful in the role.
Research from the British Business Bank found that the average cost for businesses in the UK to employ a new person for their first year of employment is almost £63,000. This means hiring the right candidate is essential for businesses, so demonstrating a good understanding of the role goes a long way to convincing them at interview stage.
Show some creativity
Creativity is a highly sought after skill for most hiring managers, so demonstrating this in an interview makes sense. When researching prior to an interview, consider identifying who the business’ competitors are, products offered and market positions. Then use this information to show your creative side.
Create visual representations to support your presentation and consider printing a copy out for each interviewer. The extra effort will help stand out from the crowd and leave a lasting impression following your interview.
As we move into 2023, now is your time to shine. After reading this guide, we hope you feel equipped with the tools needed to stand out from the crowd and land your dream role. If you are looking for a new role to apply for, view at our latest vacancies across the HR and Finance sectors and apply for your next position.
