Take Advantage of LinkedIn When Looking for a Job

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Use LinkedIn as one of your search methods when finding your next job. You’ll be able to research which companies are hiring, who works there, what the culture is like and other factors that influence where you want to work. Here are five ways you can take advantage of LinkedIn when looking for a job.

  1. Update Your Profile

Ensure your profile is both complete and updated. Because your LinkedIn profile is like a resume, keep your skills and experience current to show the value you can provide for an employer. Include an attractive headline, detailed summary and links to your online portfolio or professional website. Provide a professional photo of yourself so that an employer can see whom they’re contacting for a job interview.

  1. Become a Thought Leader

Establish yourself as a thought leader in your field. For example, join LinkedIn Groups to provide input in discussions, and ask and answer questions. Also, connect with individuals you regularly interact with in Groups to further develop your relationship. In addition, post content and videos you create that are relevant to your industry.

  1. Learn About Employers

Use LinkedIn company profiles to learn more about employers. You can determine which of your connections work for the company, who recently was hired or promoted, which jobs are available, what the company statistics are like and who its competitors are. You can also follow companies to stay current on their achievements, which you can mention in a cover letter or interview, and discover job postings. In addition, you can learn about company culture and what employees have to say about working there. Furthermore, you can research your potential boss and executive team before participating in an interview.

  1. Make Connections

Connect with everyone you know on LinkedIn. The more connections you have, the greater your chances of getting help with your job search. For example, look for individuals you know who work for the company you’re interested in and may refer you to the hiring manager. Also, connect with individuals in your field with whom you want to establish a relationship. In addition, connect with alumni from your college to discuss your experiences and how you can help secure a new position.

  1. Use Job Search Options

Utilize LinkedIn’s job search options. For example, click on the “Jobs” tab to search for an opportunity by keyword, ZIP code and country. Use the “Advanced Search Option” to narrow your choices according to date posted, experience level, location, job function, company and industry. You can save your searches, request email notifications about new postings, and search for job openings on companies’ LinkedIn pages. Also, use Open Candidates to discretely show you’re looking for a job without your employer or co-workers finding out. Recruiters can see what types of jobs interest you and what the best way is to get in touch.

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For assistance with securing your next professional job, contact WinCorp Solutions.

The Top Five Ways to Ace a Marketing Interview

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Interviewing for a marketing role can be stressful. However, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of making a positive impression and being extended a job offer. Here are five ways to ace a marketing interview.

  • Be Prepared

Research all you can about the company and the interviewers. Understand what the company does and what its mission, values and culture are.

Read the company’s social media pages, blog posts and news section of its website to learn about recent achievements, new campaigns or issues the company’s experiencing. Find out what the company’s target audience is, its role in the industry and products/services it produces. Uncover the company’s revenues, competitors and management structure. Visit LinkedIn to find out the interviewers’ roles in the organization and whether you have mutual connections or interests. Also, print several copies of your resume for the interviewers to refer to and references to call. In addition, prepare multiple samples of your writing or other work to demonstrate your quality and thoroughness. Be prepared to discuss two or three pieces that relate to the position you want.

  • Practice Answering Questions

Ask a family member or friend to ask you potential interview questions and provide constructive feedback. Typical interview questions involve your work style, strengths and weaknesses, and projects you’re proud of. For example, “What are your favorite marketing blogs and why?” “Tell me about a campaign you were involved in that didn’t go as well as expected. What do you think went wrong?” “How have you successfully incorporated online marketing tools into previous campaigns?”

Ensure you quantify your successes to demonstrate how you added value for past employers and can add value for your next employer.

  • Dress Appropriately

Men should wear a dark suit, such as black or navy, with a light-colored dress shirt, such as white or blue, and matching tie. Women should wear a dark suit coat with matching pants or skirt and a light-colored dress shirt. Wear matching socks or hosiery. Ensure your hair is styled, makeup is minimal and shoes are polished.

  • Ask Questions

Listen and respond to what the interviewer says, then follow up with your own question. Add in your opinions and thoughts as well. You’ll keep the interviewer engaged in the conversation and stand out from your competitors. Remember to pause after each question so you can think about the answer.

  • Send a Thank-You Email

Let each interviewer know you appreciate their time. Mention two or three topics you discussed that make you the best candidate for the role. Tell them you look forward to hearing from them soon.

Contact WinCorp Solutions

For help with securing your next marketing position, contact WinCorp Solutions!

Five Tips for Cleaning up Your Cluttered Resume

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Before applying for your next role, it’s important to update your resume. Because it may have been a while since you applied for your last role, you want the most current, relevant information to show why you’re the best candidate for the position. Follow these five tips for cleaning up your resume.

  • Narrow Your Career Goal

Be specific about your career goal. Your resume will be more focused and appeal to the employers who fit the criteria you’re searching for. If you have multiple target jobs, customize your resume to each. Focus on no more than three industries so you can more easily share relevant content.

  • Condense Your Opening Summary

Include a qualifications summary near the top of your resume. Explain your background and knowledge in concise and descriptive terms. Focus on what you can do for the company you want to work for. Show how your most recent experience and notable accomplishments make you best suited for the role. Include your core specialty and certifications that are relevant to the position and other pertinent details.

  • Update Your Work Experience

Start with your most recent position and work backward. Focus on your most recent accomplishments that relate to the role you want. Highlight your job titles or promotions and projects you managed. Detail what you accomplished and what steps you took. Include how you increased company profits, quality, efficiency, or customer satisfaction. If you have an established career of over 10 years, summarize your experience in an “early career” section. Focus more on your accomplishments than on your responsibilities. If you can’t back up your information with numbers, percentages, or another quantifiable method, delete it.

  • Emphasize Your Skills

Ensure your skills are current to show you stay updated in your field. Emphasize how your skills have benefitted previous employers and how they can benefit your next employer. Include all qualifications you possess that are mentioned in the job description. If you’re lacking in specific areas, determine how you can gain those skills. For example, you may want to take a class or earn a certification to qualify for more roles.

  • Consolidate Your Education

If you have an established career of at least four years, leave out detailed information about your internships, courses, academic honors, and extracurricular activities. Employers are more concerned about how your recent skills and experience can benefit their company.

Reach Out to WinCorp Solutions

For help securing your next finance, accounting, engineering, IT or marketing role, contact WinCorp Solutions today!

How to Get Ahead in Digital Marketing

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When working in digital marketing, you need to stay ahead of the competition. Because the industry is rapidly evolving, it is important you take steps to remain updated and continue providing value to your organization. Here are five ways to get ahead in digital marketing:

  • Set Career Goals

Set and achieve goals for your digital marketing career. Focus on what you want and what steps you can take to get there. Determine what skills and experience you need to secure your dream job and what roles you need to take on first. Continually seeking opportunities to improve yourself and move forward in your career path.

  • Create a Portfolio

Build a portfolio showcasing your work and achievements. Include tangible examples of projects you worked on and ones that resulted in successful results. For example, you may have increased website traffic, conversion rates, or followers on social media pages. Also, ensure you include a link to your online portfolio every time you apply for a position. Even if your work does not directly relate to the role, it demonstrates your transferrable skills. In addition, save your statistics, feedback, email correspondence, and other documentation showing you are making a difference for companies. You can use the information during interviews to show you can grow a brand and connect with target audiences.

  • Build Your Presence

Create your profile to show hiring managers what you have to offer. For example, utilize social media to participate in industry conversations and comment on articles or blogs. Also, actively participate in professional conferences and events to network with other professionals and stay current in your field. In addition, volunteer as a speaker, sit on a panel, or conduct a workshop to demonstrate your knowledge and leadership abilities.

  • Participate in Self-Directed Learning

Determine which are the most sought-after skills in digital marketing and teach yourself to master them. For example, you can study blogs, magazines, books, and video tutorials or participate in clubs and classes to teach yourself coding. Because of the significant skills shortage, you will face less competition and have a variety of career options to choose from.

  • Network

Always network. For example, join local clubs about coding, web design, and development or a different topic that interests you. Participate in digital round table discussions about the latest marketing techniques or other topics. In addition, you can participate in LinkedIn Group discussions related to your industry by sharing your knowledge and learning from others. You should also take part in seminars, conferences, and professional associations in your field. You will make new connections and uncover opportunities while remaining current with industry news and trends.

  • Partner with WinCorp Solutions

These are five ways to get ahead in digital marketing. For assistance with moving your career forward, contact WinCorp Solutions today.

Four Tips for Advancing Your Accounting Career

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Moving forward in your accounting career involves careful planning. By gaining the necessary skills and experience, you set yourself up for success in your field. Follow these four tips for advancing your accounting career.

  • Earn Additional Qualifications

If you are just starting out, you may want to earn the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualification. This will advance your understanding of financial performance and may help you earn promotions. If you would like to move into management positions, you can complete the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) qualification. In addition, you can earn advanced degrees such as a Master of Science in Accounting. This degree will help you prepare for the certified public accountant (CPA) exam, leading to another qualification that can help you move forward. Furthermore, becoming a CPA prepares you for specialized qualifications such as a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).

  • Enhance Your Soft Skills

Strengthen your communication skills by joining a local Toastmasters club. Improve your leadership skills by participating in related workshops and seminars. In addition, increase your collaboration skills by joining a sports team. Because your ability to understand, relate to, and serve clients is a vital aspect of working as an accountant, developing your soft skills helps you perform at a higher level and shows you are the best candidate for a promotion.

  • Find a Mentor

A mentor can provide you with inside information about your company and/or the accounting industry to help you be more productive in less time. A mentor can also help you create and achieve long-term career goals so you progress professionally over time. Furthermore, a mentor can connect you with contacts and opportunities that you may not have found otherwise.

  • Network

Daily connecting with new professionals and cultivating relationships increases your influence in and out of the accounting field. You increase your chances of finding new ways to advance your career. Because the majority of desirable jobs are filled by word-of-mouth rather than advertising, you may be able to interview for roles you would not have had access to otherwise. Therefore, you need to participate in accounting events such as seminars, conferences and professional association meetings.

Partner with WinCorp Solutions

For help securing your next position, contact WinCorp Solutions today.

How Following Up Can Help You Get the Job

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Following up after an interview is a vital part of your job search. Not only do you remain foremost in the interviewer’s mind, but you also provide reasons why you are the best candidate for the role. Here are four examples of how following up can help you get the job.

Thank the Interviewer for Their Time

Sending a thank-you note within 24 hours of your interview shows appreciation for the interviewer’s time. For example, email a quick note expressing gratitude for the interviewer taking the time to talk with you. Mention two or three main points you discussed so that you stand out in the interviewer’s mind. Close by expressing your interest in talking with the interviewer again soon.

Check in with the Interviewer

Following up lets you check in with the interviewer. If you have not heard from the interviewer within four or five days after your interview, send the interviewer a quick email. Thank the interviewer for meeting with you and ask for an update on the hiring decision. Also, ask whether the interviewer has any additional questions for you or needs more information. Chances are interviews are still being conducted, the hiring manager is out of the office or another work commitment took priority, which is why you have not heard anything.

Demonstrate Value to the Company

Following up shows additional ways you can add value to the company. You can mention a helpful idea you thought of after your interview, a question you should have asked or another example that highlights your abilities. Send a follow-up note to show you are still thinking about the interview and want to help the organization. Ask for an update on whether a hiring decision was made, then mention your suggestion or ask your business question. This shows you are still interested in and excited about the role and shows why you are the top candidate. Also, offering a business solution sets you apart from the competition and demonstrates you taking the initiative to solve problems.

Move Forward with Other Opportunities

Following up helps you more forward with your job search. For example, if you received a job offer from Company B but you truly want to work for Company A, you can send a quick email letting Company A know you were offered a position elsewhere but may turn it down to work for Company A. If Company A does not extend you an offer, you can either work for Company B or continue your job search.

Partner with WinCorp Solutions

Following up after an interview can help you get the job you want. For help securing your next professional position, contact WinCorp Solutions today.

Interview Mistakes You’re Making That Are Costing You Your Dream Job

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You’ve had plenty of interview chances, but you haven’t landed your dream job. These mistakes during the interview could be what are costing you job offers.

Here are four of the most common interview mistakes that can cost you your dream job.

One Word Answers

No one likes a chatterbox but the opposite can be just as detrimental. An interview is your chance to shine and sell yourself, letting the hiring manager know why you’re the perfect person for the position. But even if you’re nervous you’ll need to push through and answer with more than just a yes or a no. Provide answers that are thorough, demonstrating your skills as they relate to the job. Employers prefer critical thinkers, so be sure to provide thoughtful answers. Providing a specific past work experience as an example is also a strong answer.

 

Negativity Towards a Former Employer

You might not have enjoyed the time you spent with a particular company – and you may have good reasons to feel that way – but keep your opinions to yourself during the interview. Running down a former employer casts a shadow over your application and interview. Not only does it make you look unprofessional, but may suggest that you are negative as well.

 

Failing to Ask The Interviewer Questions

It might feel like an interview is one-sided with the interviewer asking all the questions, but that isn’t the case. A good interview is a two-way street and you’ll stay on the hiring manager’s radar if you ask engaged questions. This not only shows you’re interested in the position, it also shows you’re already investing time and energy into the company. Consider asking a few smart questions about the company’s plan for the future, or current projects. You can ask a question such as, “What are some challenges the company has faced due to industry trends and/or changes?” By asking a mixture of hands-on job related questions and inquisitive questions, you are showing the interviewer you have multiple perspectives and dimensions.

 

Forgetting to Follow Up

If you’re like most people, you probably feel a great sense of relief when you walk out of the interview. But don’t call it a day yet, because you’re not quite finished. Following up after an interview is an important part of the entire interview process. So send a quick email to your interviewer thanking them for their time and interest in your application. And don’t forget to include a comment about being interested in the position. It’s a simple, easy way to remind the hiring manager you want to work with their company.

 

Preparing for an interview might seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. If you think you would benefit from a little interview prep or would like to explore current vacancies, reach out to the specialized recruiters at WinCorp Solutions. Their team of staffing experts are ready to help you land your dream job. Get in touch today.