6 Ways to Make Your Job Application Stand Out

Although a resume can provide an employer with a glimpse of who you are or what kind of an employee you might be, the format limits you to certain information. To get the job you want, you might need to look at the application process a little differently. Go beyond the resume with these six ways to help your job application stand out.

Vet the Company

Your knowledge about a company's culture, organizational structure and industry footprint shows you are a serious candidate and know how to do your homework. Visit the company's website and social media pages. Key staff members are probably profiled on the company's LinkedIn page, and its Twitter feed can clue you into topics of interest to the company.

Ask for Clarification

If part of the job application process is confusing, don't be afraid to ask for clarification. You don't want to make a mistake or leave out important information. Your hesitation or embarrassment could come across as carelessness rather than nervousness. Instead, take the initiative to reach out to HR; this shows you're not afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Make It Personal

After you vetted the company to find out about key personnel and other details, now is the time to show what you learned. Tailor the cover letter, job application and resume to that particular job and that particular company. Mention the hiring manager by name. Avoid the familiar "to whom it may concern" salutation, and instead address the letter to the person who is going to be reviewing it. Mention some of the achievements from the company's tweets or trends in the industry.

Keep It Simple

No matter how much you want to draw attention to your job application, avoid colored paper, crazy fonts, scented paper or other gimmicks to get noticed. The only thing you'll get from such efforts is to stand out in an annoying way. Make it easy for the hiring manager to stick your resume in the "yes" pile rather than in the "no way, never" pile.

Be Creative

Even though you want to avoid annoying gimmicks to get noticed, it doesn't mean you should avoid being creative entirely. Consider other tasteful ways to get the HR manager to notice you, such as designing a video application, creating a slideshow about yourself or building an online portfolio to showcase your special talents. Don't go over the top, though. You want to be enthusiastic about the position but remain professional.

Show Them Who You Are

If you've got unique talents or have had some unique experiences that you think will help you be more successful in the position, mention those traits in your job application materials. However, these talents and experiences should be relatable and relevant rather than trite or even inappropriate. Highlight what makes you different from everyone else applying for the position so your application stands out.

To make your job application stand out, show you have what it takes to be a successful member of the team. By researching the company, personalizing your application materials and being creative, you have the chance to show your special talents. Don't be afraid to ask questions and get to know HR. Use your resourcefulness and winning personality to help you fit in seamlessly with the company.

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