Shelley Shares

How to be the Stand-Out Applicant By: Shelley Maley, PHR, GCDF

Career coaching
December 19, 2024•1 min read

How to be the Stand-Out Applicant By: Shelley Maley, PHR, GCDF


Did you know the average job posting receives 250 applications? 

In fact, some positions may receive hundreds more! When I worked as an HR Director in healthcare, some jobs received 500 or more applications.

In today’s competitive job market, standing out isn’t just about meeting the position’s minimum requirements - you must be strategically proactive! What can you possibly do to stand out when there is so much competition???

If you know anyone who currently works there, ask for an introduction, referral, or recommendation.  

Be one of the very first applicants as soon as the position is posted.

If you can’t be one of the first to apply, then apply between 6 a.m.- 8 a.m. on a Monday morning.

Apply directly on the company website rather than through LinkedIn or a job board such as Indeed.

Address your cover letter to a specific person rather than “Dear Hiring Manager”.

After applying, contact the recruiter or hiring manager directly to let them know of your application.

Have work samples ready to share – if you have a portfolio or website, include the link on your resume.

By implementing these targeted strategies, you become a more memorable candidate who demonstrates initiative and genuine interest in the position. Remember, you goal isn’t just to apply. You must make a lasting impression that compels employers to see YOU as the ideal solution to their hiring needs!

 

Thanks,

Shelley Maley, PHR, GCDF

Dreamcatcher Career Coaching, LLC

www.dreamcatchercareercoaching.com

(610) 663-0585

Communications Chairperson - Pennsylvania Career Development Association (PACDA)

Connect with me on Linkedin:

https://linkedin.com/in/shelleymaleycareercoach


How to be the Stand-Out Applicant
Shelley Maley, Greater Philadelphia Shelley Maley, PHR, GCDF is the founder of Dreamcatcher Career Coaching, LLC. Dreamcatchercareercoachingll.com She launched her own coaching practice after working as a career coach in higher ed for 8 years. Recognized by Influence Digest as one of the Top Coaches in Philadelphia in 2023, Shelley has both HR and career coaching credentials and has been assisting recent college graduates, young professionals, and burned-out professionals with resumes, interview coaching, job search strategy, career confusion, and all other things career-related. With an extensive background in human resources and management in hospitality, healthcare, and higher education, her coaching specialty is helping recent college graduates and young adults to cultivate career confidence, clarity, and connections in order to launch fulfilling careers. Shelley is the Communications Chairperson for The Pennsylvania Career Development Association (PACDA), a volunteer with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce & Young Professionals Council, and the Apprenticeship Ambassador for a new nonprofit in the Lehigh Valley, A.I.M.E., which guides high school and college students in discovering fulfilling career paths. In addition to career coaching, she also provides training in soft skills and dining etiquette, as well as confidence coaching. Shelley is the host of the Young Professionals Career Catalyst on Spotify, iHeart Radio, and Apple Podcast.

Shelley Maley

Shelley Maley, Greater Philadelphia Shelley Maley, PHR, GCDF is the founder of Dreamcatcher Career Coaching, LLC. Dreamcatchercareercoachingll.com She launched her own coaching practice after working as a career coach in higher ed for 8 years. Recognized by Influence Digest as one of the Top Coaches in Philadelphia in 2023, Shelley has both HR and career coaching credentials and has been assisting recent college graduates, young professionals, and burned-out professionals with resumes, interview coaching, job search strategy, career confusion, and all other things career-related. With an extensive background in human resources and management in hospitality, healthcare, and higher education, her coaching specialty is helping recent college graduates and young adults to cultivate career confidence, clarity, and connections in order to launch fulfilling careers. Shelley is the Communications Chairperson for The Pennsylvania Career Development Association (PACDA), a volunteer with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce & Young Professionals Council, and the Apprenticeship Ambassador for a new nonprofit in the Lehigh Valley, A.I.M.E., which guides high school and college students in discovering fulfilling career paths. In addition to career coaching, she also provides training in soft skills and dining etiquette, as well as confidence coaching. Shelley is the host of the Young Professionals Career Catalyst on Spotify, iHeart Radio, and Apple Podcast.

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