I’ve spent the last month in the hiring process for new positions at Differential. During that time, I’ve collected advice I’d like to offer those seeking a new job.
#1: Follow the instructions
If there are explicit instructions for you to follow during the application process, it is important that you follow those instructions. By not following the instructions, you are giving a bad first-impression. When I’m vetting applicants, I follow a simple checklist before moving them through to the first step of the interview process:
- Do they have a resume attached?
- Did they write a cover letter?
- Did they thoroughly answer the questions in the application?
#2: Express genuine interest
Candidates are often applying to multiple companies and multiple positions simultaneously. There is nothing wrong with that. However, please do not copy and paste your responses. Take the time to read the job description and genuinely answer the questions. Show your interest in the company and the position, and how you and your skills are the right fit for the role.
#3: Write well
As an obsessive, long-form writer, I’m biased, but, writing matters. We live in a world where most communication is written via text. And, if the position you’re applying for is a remote position (like in this instance), that is even more vital. Take the time to craft your words, express your interest, and communicate concisely and effectively.
#4: Be responsive
I make a concerted effort to stay on top of the applications that come in. I read them, evaluate them, and, if I feel good about the match, I send an email for the initial phone interview. On top of that, I do it in a timely manner out of respect for your time, my time, and the company’s time. Please do the same in return. This is another form of genuinely showing interest.
#5: Follow up
I know it may seem an antiquated formality in the job-search process, but following up is important. While I won’t outright disqualify someone for not following up, it means a lot when someone takes the time to, and it goes a long way in expressing genuine interest. A personal core value of mine is “Following Through,” so it holds strongly with me.