In competitive job markets, job seekers and employees face a great deal of pressure to differentiate themselves from their peers. These days, the experience on your resume and the alma mater on your bachelor’s degree 
aren’t the only things employers are looking for in a job candidate. Employers want to hire dynamic individuals who are eager to demonstrate their potential for growth and their drive to do great work. As you strive to establish a reputation for excellence in the workplace, it’s a good idea to first consider where you are in your career.
During Your Job Search
This is often the hardest part of the process, as most employers will generally have little to no prior knowledge of who you are as a person, or what you’re like to work with. It’s essential that job seekers tailor resumes to each position they apply to, rather than relying on a one size fits all alternative. A specialized resume will better convey to hiring managers that you really want this job, rather than just any job. If possible, try to get some face time with your prospective employers prior to your interview. This might mean handing in a resume in person, or just stopping in to learn more about the business (when appropriate). And of course, don’t forget to send a thank-you note to the hiring manager following your interview.
At Your New Job
This is the stage where savvy employees really dig their heels in and do their best to make a positive impression on their new supervisors. Look for opportunities to learn from more experienced employees in the organization, but within and outside of your own department. Develop a reputation for good attendance early. Volunteer to help where help is needed. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you’re new to the industry, do research to learn about some hot-button issues in your field, and then try to put that knowledge to work to improve your performance.
As a Veteran Employee
You might be the most senior member of your department, but sooner or later some young gung-ho employee is sure to come on board and make a few waves around the office. The mistake many veteran employees in this situation make is to try to outshine their new counterparts. This strategy is unlikely to get you more than a few raised eyebrows from your fellow seasoned employees. Instead of competing with the new hire, try to collaborate. Help them to implement their exciting new ideas by providing them with helpful insights based on your experience. Leverage your extensive knowledge of your workplace to help them become better employees. Your superiors will appreciate your efforts, and the junior members of your department will come to respect your input.
Here at CSS, we’ve had the pleasure of working with thousands of talented job seekers over the course of the last two decades. Your assigned staffing specialist will be there to help guide you along the way in your new career path. Give us a call today or browse our job listings online and get ready to show your new employer all you have to offer.