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Career Edge Blog

Jan 11
Love8
video interviews

Video Interviews

By Jobseeker

In last week’s blog entry, we listed video interviews as one of 2018’s recruitment trends. If you’re in the majority, you dread video interviews (like how the average millennial dreads voice calls and prefers text messages). But video interviews aren’t an obstacle, they’re an opportunity.

By supplementing your application, you can showcase your personality and soft skills, and present a strong employer-employee fit to separate yourself from the majority and give yourself a better chance to join the minority – that exclusive shortlist of candidates who receive an invitation to meet in person.

Here are some things to consider before you complete your video interview: Read More

Jan 04
Love7
2018 recruitment trends

Recruitment Trends for 2018

By Recruitment
“Hiring people is by far the most important thing companies do. When organizations hire the ‘wrong’ people, no amount of HR or management can fix the problem,” wrote Josh Bersin, founder and Principal at Bersin by Deloitte, in the HR Technology Disruptions for 2018 report.

In a candidate-driven era, as power continues to shift from employers and hiring personnel to employees and job seekers, the transformation in control will alter many intricacies in the complex world of recruitment. Read More

Jan 01
Love3
smart use of LinkedIn

14 Strategies to Boost Your LinkedIn

By Professional Development

Ready to unlock the full potential of your LinkedIn profile? Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, optimizing your LinkedIn presence is crucial for standing out in today’s competitive job market. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into 14 strategies designed to boost your profile, expand your network, and attract valuable opportunities on LinkedIn.

Approximately 90% of recruiters use LinkedIn to find talent. Will you get their attention? Follow these tips to get noticed.

1- Complete Your LinkedIn Profile

Make sure to complete your profile with a professional photo, headline, summary, and detailed work experience. A complete profile not only enhances your visibility but also demonstrates your commitment to professionalism. Remember to tailor your profile to your target job field for optimal results.

Ensure there are no discrepancies between your resume and LinkedIn’s core elements.

 2- Craft a Compelling Headline

Your headline is more than just a job title – it’s an opportunity to showcase your expertise and value proposition. Use keywords relevant to your industry and consider incorporating a brief statement about your professional philosophy or aspirations. A captivating headline can significantly increase your visibility in search results.

3- Write an Engaging Summary

Your summary serves as your elevator pitch to potential employers. Use this space to highlight your skills, accomplishments, and career goals in a concise yet compelling manner. Share your unique professional story and what sets you apart from the competition. Don’t hesitate to seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors to refine your summary further.

Research job descriptions you’re interested in and ensure your LinkedIn mirrors the grammar, punctuation, and language style of the descriptions and contains ‘enough’ keywords found in those postings. A recruiter will see your LinkedIn profile, so keep your keyword frequency reasonable and leave out those fluffy, cliché buzzwords.

4- Personalize Your LinkedIn URL

Customize your LinkedIn URL to make it easier for others to find and connect with you. A clean, professional URL not only enhances your profile’s appearance but also makes it more memorable for recruiters and employers reviewing your resume.

5- Highlight Your Achievements

Utilize the “Featured” section to showcase your best work, projects, articles, or presentations. Providing concrete evidence of your skills and expertise can siginificantly improve your credibility and draw the attention of potential employers.

6- Optimize Your Skills Section

Select relevant skills that align with your expertise and strengths. Endorsements from connections can validate your skills and increase your profile’s visibility. However, prioritize quality over quantity to maintain authenticity and relevance.

7- Grow Your Network

Expand your network by connecting with professionals in your industry, alumni, colleagues, and recruiters. Personalize your connection requests to establish rapport and foster meaningful relationships. Leverage LinkedIn’s email synchronization feature and follow up on meetings or conversations with personalized connection requests.

8- Engage with Content

Like, comment, and share relevant posts to demonstrate your industry knowledge and engage with your network. Active engagement not only increases your visibility but also positions you as a valuable contributor within your industry community.

9- Publish Thoughtful Content

Consider writing articles or posts on topics related to your expertise to showcase your thought leadership. Share valuable insights, experiences, and perspectives to resonate with your audience and establish credibility in your field.

10- Join and Participate in Groups

Join LinkedIn groups relevant to your industry or interests and actively engage in discussions. Provide valuable contributions, ask questions, and share resources to expand your network and knowledge. Remember to prioritize quality interactions and avoid overly promotional behavior.

ALSO READ: Develop a Winning Mindset for Your Job Hunt

11- Request Recommendations

Reach out to colleagues, supervisors, or clients for authentic recommendations that highlight your skills and accomplishments. Thoughtful recommendations can significantly boost your credibility and differentiate you from other candidates.

12- Stay Active

Regularly update your profile with new experiences, skills, or achievements to demonstrate your ongoing professional growth and engagement. Keeping your profile fresh signals to recruiters and employers that you’re actively invested in your career.

13- Utilize Job Search Features

Explore LinkedIn’s job search features to discover relevant job openings and apply directly through the platform. Set up job alerts to stay informed about new opportunities in your field and leverage your network for referrals and introductions.

ALSO READ: Maintaining Your Well-being During Unemployment and Job Search

14- Network Effectively

Expand your network strategically and nurture professional relationships through meaningful engagement. Attend networking events, join relevant groups, and initiate conversations to build genuine connections. Remember to observe professional etiquette and maintain a positive online presence at all times.

By implementing these 14 strategies, you can optimize your LinkedIn profile and maximize your chances of success in your job search. Remember to stay authentic, proactive, and engaged with your network.

With the right approach, LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for advancing your career goals and unlocking new opportunities.

Jan 01
Love2

Mastering Your Video Interview with this Checklist

By Interviewing

If you’re worried about your next video interview (like how the average millennial dreads voice calls and prefers text messages), think of them as opportunities, not obstacles.

Embracing video interviews is crucial in today’s evolving job market, where remote interactions play a pivotal role in the hiring process. Instead of viewing them as daunting obstacles, consider video interviews as valuable opportunities to showcase your personality and soft skills, setting yourself apart from other applicants.

Navigating the Video Interview Landscape: A Checklist for Success

Before diving into a video interview, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure a seamless and impactful experience.

❐ Acoustics: Ensure a Noise-Free Environment

  • Notify household members about your interview and request a few minutes of uninterrupted quiet.
  • Turn off mobile devices and any potential sources of disturbance.
  • Communicate the need for silence to create an optimal interview environment.

❐ Lighting: Illuminate Your Best Self

  • Position the light source in front of you to ensure your face is well-lit.
  • Adequate lighting enhances visibility and conveys professionalism.
  • Avoid backlighting that may cast shadows on your face, impacting clarity.

❐ Background: Create a Distraction-Free Setting

  • Choose a background that doesn’t divert attention, such as solid-coloured walls or bookshelves.
  • Eliminate potential distractions like televisions or noisy roommates.
  • A clutter-free background fosters a focused and professional atmosphere.

❐ Confidence: Let it Shine through the Screen

  • Maintain consistent eye contact with the camera to establish a connection.
  • Speak assertively and clearly, ensuring your voice reflects confidence.
  • Express enthusiasm about your skills and qualifications.

❐ Preparation: Practice Responses and Memorizing Stories

  • Anticipate common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses.
  • Memorize brief STAR-method stories to illustrate your achievements.
  • Have a script as a guide, but avoid reading verbatim for a more natural flow.

❐ Technology: Ensure a Smooth Virtual Encounter

  • Check and charge your device’s battery to avoid interruptions during the interview.
  • Verify the functionality of your webcam and microphone in advance.
  • Reset your router if there are concerns about potential internet disruptions.
  • Be sure to ask in advance about the software used for the interview. Take time to download or upgrade to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

❐ Personality: Showcase Your Unique Traits

  • Position yourself to highlight your smile and shoulders on the screen.
  • Convey warmth and approachability through non-verbal cues.
  • Remember, employers are looking to know your genuine personality; they’re not expecting robotic responses.

❐ Attire: Dress to Impress

  • Choose attire consistent with what you would wear to an in-person interview.
  • Professional dressing reflects your commitment and respect for the interview process.
  • Pay attention to grooming and presentation to create a polished impression.

❐ Research: Learn from Others

  • Watch video interview examples online to observe successful techniques.
  • Analyze how candidates present themselves and respond to questions.
  • Incorporate effective strategies into your own preparation.
  • Stay informed with the best practices. Check Career Edge’s FAQ on video interviews.
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