A dozen applications came in soon after the copywriter job posting at The TemPositions Group of Companies was posted. Walter Prystowsky, the marketing director, was expecting over 100 applications in a week. He mentioned that many applicants were highly qualified with years of experience in producing a large amount of content. Walter finds it challenging to select only a few candidates to interview.
According to the upcoming Content Marketing Career and Salary Survey by CMI, 68% of marketers believe that finding a professional job in marketing is more difficult now than it was five years ago. So, what can job seekers do to stand out in a competitive job market? What are the key traits that hiring managers look for in content and marketing job applicants?
Let’s discuss what hiring managers are looking for in job applicants and how you can increase your chances of landing your dream job in content marketing.
Cover Letter:
The debate about cover letters continues among job seekers. While some use AI tools to generate cover letters, others choose not to include one at all. Walter Prystowsky mentioned that he doesn’t require cover letters, but he appreciates it when candidates take the time to write a personalized one. He values cover letters that show specific research about the company and thoughtful insights on how the candidate can contribute.
Resume:
Mariah Obiedzinski Tang, an assistant vice president of content marketing, emphasizes the importance of showcasing growth in your resume. She suggests adding a “What I Learned” section to highlight out-of-scope duties and challenging assignments. Tailoring your resume to the job description and demonstrating strategic alignment with the company’s goals are also crucial.
Interview:
Before landing an interview, candidates may have to go through additional steps such as pre-screening tests or submitting work samples. Mariah from Stamats prefers to interview candidates who can demonstrate deeper skills in content structure and strategy. Laura from AdDaptive Intelligence focuses on asking situational and behavioral questions to gauge the candidate’s storytelling ability and soft skills.
Tips from Hiring Managers:
– Be prepared with challenge-action-result stories to showcase your problem-solving skills and business impact.
– Avoid generic responses and take the time to craft thoughtful answers that highlight your technical knowledge and unique qualities.
– Use your content skills to tell a compelling story about how your professional background aligns with the company’s goals.
In conclusion, standing out in a competitive job market requires more than just qualifications and experience. By showcasing your growth, strategic alignment, and storytelling abilities, you can increase your chances of impressing hiring managers in the content and marketing industry. Remember to tailor your application materials to each job opportunity and demonstrate a genuine interest in the company and its goals.