How to Get Hired for Your Dream Job (Insiders’ Tips From Someone Who Did!)

Today, a lot of you know me as a coder or a professional from the gaming industry working for Nvidia. But people in my online community know me better for my career transition story more than anything else. I studied Fine Art and taught art to middle schoolers for four years. Trying new ways to teach my students art and design using game engines steered me to a career transition that changed the course of my life.

It is not uncommon for people to make career transitions, foraying into fields that are different from their core competencies. My story stands out because of the stark difference between the industry I chose to transition to and my initial learning; also, the fact that I used upskilling and learning again to do this also resonated with people. And one question I get asked most often is how to get hired for the right role, 

It’s one thing to know how to get hired, but to get the role that is right for you and your career trajectory is a whole different story. While luck plays a part in all things that come to you, getting hired for the right job is a skill in itself. 

So, as someone who has been there and done that, here are my two cents on how to get hired for the job you deserve. 

How to Get Hired for the Right Role: Ashley Goldstein Special Edition

1. The Interview (Or What Comes Before It)

A common job hunting misconception is that acing the interview is the sole key to success in the hiring universe. However, what often gets overlooked are the critical steps preceding and following the interview that are equally essential for leaving a lasting impression on recruiters and hiring managers. 

Prior to the interview, it’s imperative to invest time in defining your job preferences, refining your resume, optimizing your social media presence, conducting thorough research on prospective companies, and diligently preparing for interviews. Yet, even after securing an interview, your journey doesn’t conclude there. It’s essential to promptly follow up with a sincere thank-you note, maintain meticulous organization, especially if you’re juggling multiple applications, and exhibit resilience by refraining from being disheartened by setbacks. 

ALSO READ: The Top 3 Interview Questions You Need to Know to Secure Your Dream Job

2. Know Your ‘Ideal’ Role

We all want to know how to get hired for the ideal role, but very few people can define what this ‘ideal’ role is. It is a definition that should be unique to each person. Before diving into your job hunt, take a moment to define your ideal job, career path, and company culture. Consider factors like industry, role, company values, location (including remote or hybrid options), and growth opportunities. This clarity will focus your search and help you avoid applying to irrelevant positions, minimizing the risk of falling victim to scams.

3. Get Help From a Career Coach

Consider enlisting the support of a career coach. These professionals specialize in tailoring resumes and CVs to specific job applications. Equipped with the expertise to discern recruiters’ expectations, they can assist in refining your resume by emphasizing only the most relevant experiences and skills. For instance, when applying for a senior executive position, listing a brief stint at a frozen yogurt shop from high school may not be necessary. A career coach can help you make such discerning decisions, ensuring your application stands out effectively.

4. Leverage Your Network

Harness the power of your network, particularly on professional platforms like LinkedIn. Ensure your profiles reflect your current skills, job experiences, certifications, and achievements and clearly indicate your availability for employment. Additionally, don’t overlook the importance of connecting with former colleagues, friends, and industry professionals. Attend industry events, networking meetups, and career fairs to expand your network further and seize valuable opportunities for professional growth.

ALSO READ: Why Building a Personal Brand is Key to Crafting a Successful Career

5. KYE:  Know Your Employer

Thoroughly researching companies you’re keen on joining and diligently preparing for interviews, including practicing common industry-related questions, will significantly enhance your interview performance. Referencing your research during the interview demonstrates your awareness and engagement with the organization while providing concise and compelling responses showcases your confidence in your skills and abilities. This dual approach not only highlights your preparedness but also reinforces your suitability for the role. And while you can do this to get hired, it also helps you understand if you are the best cultural fit for the company you are pursuing. 

6. Follow Post-Interview Etiquette

After successfully completing your interview, it’s crucial to uphold post-interview etiquette. Within 24 hours, send a thank-you email to express gratitude to the interviewer. If you want to know how to get hired, reference key discussion points from the meeting to demonstrate active listening and engagement, aiding both the interviewer’s recollection and decision-making process. This thoughtful gesture underscores your professionalism and commitment to the opportunity.

ALSO READ: A Simple Guide on How to Write a Thank You Email After Interviews

Following your interview, it’s essential to maintain organized documentation, such as a spreadsheet or Trello board. Use this tool to record key details, including the interviewer’s name, their role within the company, noteworthy discussion points, raised questions, and any follow-up communication. This practice becomes particularly crucial when managing multiple applications, preventing the mixing up of vital information and ensuring each interaction receives the attention it deserves.

Above all, persistence is key. While job hunting can be demanding and rejections disheartening, maintaining resilience is paramount. Armed with clarity about your goals, a polished resume, and an appealing CV, you’re already setting yourself apart. Keeping your network active and your professional profiles current not only showcases your profile to recruiters actively seeking top talent but also bolsters your visibility. Additionally, thorough research on prospective employers, readiness to tackle any interview question, and adherence to professional follow-up protocols position you as an ideal candidate. Stay determined, stay prepared, and success will follow suit.

NOTE: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and not of Emeritus.