Oct. 29. In today’s oversaturated job market, standing out to your dream employer can feel like an uphill battle. Recent studies have found that 80 percent of applications don’t make it past the shortlist stage, and just 2% of applicants are selected for a job interview.

Wix.com has seven tips to help your application stand out, from pre-application to landing the job.

Build a strong personal brand

Your online presence matters. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and highlights your expertise and achievements. Share industry-related content and engage with thought leaders to demonstrate your passion and knowledge.

How it makes you stand out? Having a strong personal brand shows that you are passionate, honest and driven, but above all have a genuine interest in the industry beyond your current or dream role.

Create a portfolio or personal website

A personal website or online portfolio showcasing your work can give you an edge. This is particularly effective for creative roles or positions requiring a tangible display of your skills. How it makes you stand out? Creating a portfolio or website allows you to showcase your work beyond your resume. Include visuals, images and videos where appropriate that are tailored to your interests and skill sets.

Leverage your network

Networking is key to getting noticed. Reach out to employees in your dream company, attend industry events, and join professional groups. Often, job opportunities arise through connections and referrals rather than standard applications.

How it makes you stand out? If existing employees at your dream company already know your name, you’re 5 steps ahead of the competition. Create positive interactions online by liking and commenting on employees’ posts, and by creating posts that are likely to resonate with them.

Research the company thoroughly

Go beyond basic company knowledge. Understand the company’s mission, values, recent projects, and industry challenges. Reference this knowledge in your cover letter and CV to show you’ve done your homework.

How it makes you stand out? It demonstrates a genuine interest in the company on your part, but also demonstrates a cultural fit to the employer and allows you to feel more confident throughout the process.

Tailor your application to the company and role

In today’s job market, a one-size-fits-all approach to your CV just won’t cut it. Customizing your resume and cover letter for each job is critical. Utilize wording from the job description to highlight good skill matches, and consider going the extra mile by using the brand’s fonts or color profile throughout your CV to show it’s just for them.

How it makes you stand out? By incorporating your dream employer’s branding into your CV, you’re showing that you have tailored your application to the company rather than sending out a blanket application.

Demonstrate continuous learning

Even once you have applied for a role, it’s important to show ongoing learning and development within the field. Mention any recent courses, certifications, or learning experiences that show you’re committed to self-improvement.

How it makes you stand out? Employers value candidates who stay up to date with industry trends. Keep your LinkedIn or website updated with any new insights and courses, as employers may well check your socials as part of the hiring process.

Follow up thoughtfully

After submitting your application or completing an interview, send a well-crafted follow-up email. Thank them for the opportunity and briefly reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. A polite follow-up shows professionalism and continued interest.

How it makes you stand out? A friendly thank-you and expression of interest is something often missed in today’s employee landscape, where people are often applying for multiple roles at different companies. This 5-minute task will leave a good impression and may get your application a second look.

Quotable

“In a market where hiring managers may decide within minutes whether to advance a candidate, creating a personalized, insightful application is crucial. The challenge lies in making a lasting impression quickly, and that’s where extra steps – like building a personal website or interacting with employees on LinkedIn – can truly set you apart. Ultimately, it’s about demonstrating that you’re not just another applicant, but someone who understands and fits with the company’s vision and values.”