How to Make Yourself Electable: Jobseeker Etiquette and Winning Strategies
Standing out as a jobseeker today means blending professionalism, authenticity, and a keen understanding of what employers look for. Here’s how you can make yourself electable and approach your job search with strong etiquette and insight.
Polish Your Personal Brand
Your CV and LinkedIn profile create your first impression. Tailor your CV for each role, highlighting achievements that matter most. Use your LinkedIn profile to present your skills, endorsements, and a professional image. Employers often check your digital footprint, so keep your online presence consistent and polished.
Let Your Experience Speak for Itself
Support your achievements with real examples. If you mention being organised, describe a project you led or a process you improved. Use numbers to show your impact—it makes your accomplishments clear and memorable.
Communicate with Respect and Professionalism
Every interaction during your job search shapes how you are perceived. Treat every conversation—whether with a receptionist, recruiter, or hiring manager—as an opportunity to build a positive impression. Respond promptly, listen actively, and express genuine interest in the people you meet. Thoughtful communication sets you apart and builds trust.
Master Interview Etiquette
- Dress appropriately: Choose professional attire that fits the company culture.
- Arrive on time: Aim to be a few minutes early for interviews and appointments.
- Practice good body language: Maintain eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and sit attentively.
Prepare Insightful Questions
Show you have done your research by asking about company culture, team goals, or what success looks like in the role. Thoughtful questions signal your engagement and genuine interest.
Build and Showcase Soft Skills
Employers value communication, teamwork, adaptability, and empathy. Highlight these in your application and during interviews. Share stories that demonstrate how you have worked well with others, solved problems, or adapted to change.
Stay Positive and Persistent
Rejection is part of the process. Stay resilient, keep applying, and learn from each experience. A positive attitude and willingness to grow set you apart.
Embrace Growth and Openness
Approach your job search with humility and a readiness to learn. Employers look for candidates who are open to feedback, eager to improve, and ready to contribute. Focus on what you can bring to the table and how you can grow with the company.
Working with a Third-Party Recruitment Consultant
Partnering with a recruitment consultant is a smart investment in your job search. The consultant acts as your advocate and also represents the employer’s brand, so your professionalism reflects well on both sides.
Before You Get Started
- Find the Right Agency:
- Choose specialists: Look for agencies that focus on your industry or the type of role you want. Specialists often have deeper networks and a better understanding of your needs.
- Check their reputation: Explore online reviews on platforms like Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn to see what others say about their experiences. Connect with people in your network who have used the company’s services before—their insights can provide valuable, real-world perspectives on what to expect
- Look for success stories: Agencies that share stories of successful placements show they have experience and can deliver results.
- Clarify Your Goals:
- Define your role: Be clear about the industry, company culture, responsibilities, and career path you’re aiming for.
- Know your worth: Have a realistic salary range in mind.
- Identify your essentials: Consider what matters most—remote work, specific benefits, or location requirements.
- Polish Your CV and LinkedIn Profile:
- Keep them up-to-date: Make sure your CV and LinkedIn profile reflect your current skills and experience. Tailor them to the roles you’re targeting.
- Maintain professionalism: Ensure your LinkedIn profile is complete, professional, and matches your CV.
During the Partnership
- Be open and honest:
- Share your experience: Present your skills and past roles accurately. Authenticity builds trust.
- Keep your consultant informed: Let them know if you’re working with other agencies or applying directly to companies. This helps everyone stay aligned.
- Express your preferences: Clearly communicate your salary expectations, preferred locations, and the kind of role you want.
- Communicate clearly and promptly:
- Respond quickly: Reply to emails and calls as soon as you can. Being responsive shows professionalism.
- Be specific: Give clear details about your experience and what you want. This helps your consultant find the best fit.
- Stay available and engaged:
- Keep in touch: Stay accessible throughout the process.
- Share updates: If anything changes or you have new preferences, let your consultant know right away. This ensures they can represent you effectively.
Understand the Prospective Employer’s Needs
Take time to analyse the job description and research the company. Identify what the employer is looking for—both in skills and cultural fit. Reflect these needs in your application and interview responses. Show how your experience and values align with the company’s objectives and culture. This tailored approach demonstrates genuine interest and makes you a stronger candidate.
Looking for a New Career Path?
If you are ready for a change, send your CV to careers@quadconsultancy.com. We help you find career opportunities that play to your strengths and match your ambitions. Let us guide you toward your next career move.
Final Thought
What steps will you take today to become the most electable candidate in your field? Every improvement in your professionalism, communication, and understanding of employer needs brings you closer to the role you want.