Applying for a job is a chance to stand out, shine, and show off what makes you a unique fit. But too often, job seekers overlook the opportunity to craft a memorable resume and LinkedIn profile that reflects their strengths. If you’re aiming for your next role to be a standout experience, here’s how to make sure your application gets the attention it deserves.

Table of Contents

1. Understand What Really Impresses Employers
2. Customize Your Resume for Every Application
3. Follow Up—Politely and Purposefully
4. Respond Quickly to Communication from Employers
5. Get Ready for Every Interview—Especially the Phone Screen
6. Tailoring Your Approach to Each Company
7. The Bottom Line: Make Every Application Count

Ready to take your job search to the next level? Follow these strategies for building a memorable application that showcases your skills and ambitions.

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1. Understand What Really Impresses Employers

Every company has specific traits and skills they value, some of which are easy to spot in job listings and mission statements. Others are more subtle, hidden in company culture and leadership perspectives. Take time to research the company you’re interested in by looking up recent blog posts, press releases, and industry reports.

Many companies today value what the American Management Association calls the “Four Cs”: critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. If you can weave these skills into your application, you’ll align yourself with traits that matter to nearly every industry.

Pro Tip: Go beyond the job listing. What can you find out about the company’s culture or current priorities? Are there recent industry changes or trends they’re focused on? Show that you understand the bigger picture.

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2. Customize Your Resume for Every Application

It’s tempting to fire off the same resume to multiple job openings, but tailoring your resume to each position can make a huge difference. Each time you apply, take a few minutes to tweak your resume so it better reflects the role’s requirements and your alignment with them.

For instance, if you’re applying for a customer service role, emphasize your people skills, patience, and conflict-resolution abilities. If you’re eyeing a managerial position, highlight leadership experience and results-driven projects.

Pro Tip: Align your resume with the job listing’s keywords. Most companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes, and using similar language can help ensure yours makes it past the initial filter.

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3. Follow Up—Politely and Purposefully

Hiring managers often get hundreds of applications, so following up can help ensure you don’t slip through the cracks. After sending in your application, wait a few days and then send a brief, professional follow-up email. If there’s no response, a second follow-up a week later can help keep your name top-of-mind without feeling pushy.

Why does this work? According to Elena Bajic, founder and CEO of Ivy Exec, only about 10% of candidates follow up at all, so showing you’re proactive can set you apart. Just be concise and respectful of their time, expressing your continued interest in the role.

Pro Tip: In your follow-up email, reiterate one or two skills or experiences that make you a great fit for the role. This reinforces your qualifications and shows your enthusiasm for the position.

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4. Respond Quickly to Communication from Employers

Once a company reaches out to you, whether for more information or to set up an interview, respond as quickly as possible. A prompt reply shows that you’re engaged and genuinely interested in the position. Hiring managers often interpret delayed responses as a lack of enthusiasm or energy for the role.

Pro Tip: Treat your job search communications like a priority. Keep your email notifications on, and consider saving email templates for common responses to save time without sacrificing professionalism.

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5. Get Ready for Every Interview—Especially the Phone Screen

The initial phone screening is often the first step in the hiring process, and it’s your chance to make a strong impression. If a recruiter contacts you, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask to schedule the call for the next day to allow time to prepare. Use that time to research the company’s values, goals, and any recent achievements or initiatives.

When it comes to phone interviews, preparation is key. Create a quiet, distraction-free environment, have your resume handy, and come prepared with thoughtful questions. Show that you’re serious about the role by researching and asking questions that demonstrate your interest in the company’s future.

Pro Tip: Prepare a few well-researched questions about the role or the company’s direction. Ask something like, “I read about your recent expansion—how will this impact the team I’d be working with?” Showing that you’re informed and curious about their goals will help you stand out.

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6. Tailoring Your Approach to Each Company

Remember, the best way to stand out is to be authentic and adaptable. A polished resume that resonates at a tech startup may need a different tone for a luxury hotel chain or Fortune 500 company. The skills, experience, and personality traits that are prized in each setting can vary widely.

Pro Tip: Stay flexible. When tailoring your application, think about the company culture and industry expectations. Use your research to select a handful of strengths or experiences that will resonate with each specific employer.

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The Bottom Line: Make Every Application Count

In today’s job market, quality trumps quantity. Instead of sending dozens of resumes, take time to ensure each application is aligned with the specific role and company. Put yourself in the hiring manager’s shoes: would you call back a candidate with a clearly crafted resume, a solid follow-up email, and thoughtful responses? Chances are, they will.

By understanding what employers look for, crafting targeted applications, and following up effectively, you’re already miles ahead in the job search process. Give these tips a try, and watch how quickly you transform from just another candidate to a standout professional. Good luck!