As a job seeker, finding ways to stand out from the crowd is a must. If you can’t separate yourself from the pack, securing your ideal position can be surprisingly challenging, if not outright impossible. As a result, you need to focus on showcasing the right aspects of what you bring to the table, increasing the odds that you’ll shine.
Figuring out what to highlight isn’t always easy. However, there is one factor that many candidates believe gives them an edge that actually doesn’t. So if you are wondering what aspect you should stop relying on when trying to land a new job, here’s what you need to know.
Your Formal Education Isn’t a Differentiator
In many cases, your formal education is not a differentiator. Many jobs require a college degree, meaning essentially every reasonably qualified candidate has one under their belt. This means your degree won’t help you stand out, even if it’s spot one when it comes to the major or from a prestigious institution.
Now, this doesn’t mean your formal education isn’t beneficial. In the end, it allows you to qualify for the job, which is crucial. It’s simply important to understand that other candidates will have this credential as well, so your degree isn’t going to stand out in the hiring manager’s eyes.
What to Focus on Instead
When you’re trying to separate yourself from the competition, focusing on genuinely unique aspects of what you bring to the table is the smartest move. In many cases, this means showcasing both hard and soft skills that can help you thrive in the role and accomplishments that demonstrate how you put those skills to work for employers.
Ideally, you want to use this approach on your resume and during the interview. An achievement-focused application allows you to highlight skills while also giving the hiring manager important context about bringing the team value. By discussing them during your interview, your answers can be more engaging and meaningful.
When you prepare your examples, quantify the details whenever possible. Numbers visually stand out on a resume and create an extra level of detail. During an interview, they can make your answers more impressive or simply add clarity to your responses, both of which work in your favor.
In the end, higher education isn’t a differentiator today, so it’s best not to treat it like one. Instead, focus on what really makes you unique, especially achievements from your career. That way, you increase your odds of catching the hiring manager’s eye, making it easier to move forward in the hiring process and, ultimately, secure a job offer.
If you’re looking for a new position and would like more tips about how you can stand out from the crowd, the skilled team at The Advance Group wants to hear from you. Contact us to speak with a staff member today and see how our job search expertise can benefit you.
