In a soft job market, it’s increasingly more difficult to get your resume in front of the hiring manager – the person who will be making a hiring decision. With a little perseverance and some extra time and energy, you can increase your chances that the resume will get past the initial HR screen. 

1) Send your resume priority mail. You know those flat rate priority mail envelopes from the post office? For around $5 – slightly more or less depending on whether you pay in person or online – your resume will be hand-delivered by the USPS and then to your recipient. Plus, who doesn’t open a priority mail envelope…just out of curiosity. Another benefit is that this method shows you’re willing to go above and beyond. In the days of email communication, you went to the post office, paid for postage and spent the time to print your resume. Just make sure to use white or off-white watermarked paper. Hold the paper up to a light – the watermark should be right side up when you look at the printed page.

2) Add a post-it with a handwritten note. Add a little extra to the package you just prepared with a creative, handwritten note. A brightly colored post-it with a strong message can add to your first impression. For example:

Re: The 200% return

The story of how my past client got a 200% return on investment in is a great one. I can do the same thing for you. My résumé and cover letter are enclosed. When might we be able to meet? I will share with you my story and show how it can apply to you and your firm.

Sincerely,
John Q. Jobseeker

3) Research, research, research. An applicant tracking system will likely screen your resume before Human Resources even looks at it. HR professionals are stretched incredibly thin and recruiters are tasked with screening and interviewing a tremendous amount of candidates within the same eight hour day. Take the time to create a list of target companies, find the hiring manager, and reach out directly. Send an introduction letter (priority mail plus email) and let them know you’ll follow up with a phone call. Then do it! Utilize LinkedIn, internet research and the companies website. Practice your phone call and don’t be afraid of rejection. Remember to smile even when you’re on the phone…it comes through in your voice.

It’s hard to put yourself out there and employers know that. Even if you don’t get the job, you’ll earn the respect of those that you’ve encountered and increase your chances for getting a call the next time there’s a posting that better matches your skills and experience.