5 quick tips to help you get your dream job

Applying for jobs isn’t as daunting as it seems – especially if you feel prepared.

From keeping your work history up-to-date to preparing questions before the interview, there are lots of simple tips you can follow to give you a leg up in the hiring process.

And to help you get ready for the 2017 Fairmont Pacific Northwest Career Fair on February 27, we’re bringing you a list of five things you can do to increase your confidence.

Keep your resume updated

This is one of the easiest things you can do to make yourself look professional. Make sure your resume is up-to-date, but concise. If you can make it personalized for the company you’re applying for, all the better. Get a friend to double check your resume to make sure there aren’t any spelling mistakes.

Have a professional online presence

You know to keep your wild parties hidden from the public on Facebook and Instagram, but that’s not the only thing you need to do in order to maintain a professional online presence. Having a LinkedIn account is a huge asset – but just make sure you put lots of thought into your profile. And definitely make sure your email reads as professional, too.

Be on the ball

When someone calls, get back to them as soon as possible. Make sure you’re attentive to your inbox in case any new emails come in.And most importantly, keep your voicemail free of old messages – it won’t bode well for you if your prospective employer can’t leave a message to tell you you’re hired.

Apply for companies you care about

An easy way to give yourself a boost up in the hiring process is to only apply for places that fit your lifestyle and passions. Research the company’s mandate, mission, products, and services. If you’re looking for a dream job, you’ll want all of that to align with your own values. When it does, you’ll stand out.

Prepare – then relax

Do your research ahead of time. Come up with questions for the interviewer and crystallize a few of your work-related success stories. Print off extra copies of your resume and go to the interview 10 to 15 minutes early. And when you get there, try to relax. Take a deep breath and focus on being authentic.

Fairmont Pacific Northwest Career Fair

When: February 27, 8 am to 1 pm
Where: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, 900 West Georgia Street
Price: Free