Tips to stand out in a tough job market

(NC) Finding a job in today’s economy can be a challenge, with many postings receiving dozens or even hundreds of applicants. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to give yourself an edge over the competition.

Write the perfect resumé. Your first impression and your hope for an interview rely on your resumé and cover letter, so it’s essential that you make them easy to read and engaging. Brush up on your writing skills with the Language Portal of Canada, a free website from Public Services and Procurement Canada that can help you with clear communication, grammar, punctuation and more so you can craft the perfect resumé.

Build your digital presence. Many companies now routinely look up job candidates online, so make sure there’s something professional and interesting for them to find. Focus on your LinkedIn profile: polish up your education and work history details, write up a few articles on what’s trending in your field and post them on your feed, and ask friends and co-workers to write testimonials on your skills and performance.

Stay up to date. Being current is a great way to show that you’re genuinely interested in your field and that you prioritize self-improvement. Take a continuing education course, attend industry conferences and events, and follow trade publications to help you stay on top of the trends and the essential skills required for your career.

Engage in other interests. Most companies want well-rounded employees who bring more than just professional skills to the table – they want someone others will get along with and enjoy seeing every day. So don’t be afraid to pursue an outside passion, whether it’s learning another language, crocheting, volunteering or even being a movie buff.

To become a better candidate, check out helpful tools and resources to improve your writing and communication at canada.ca/our-languages.