The Unexpected Thing That Will Help You Land Your Next Gig—And 5 Ways To Highlight It

If you were to guess what factors companies prioritize when considering prospective employees, you might say skills and experience.

And you’d be right.

According to a recent survey of employers by TopResume, the world’s largest resume-writing service, when asked to rank what they find most important in candidates, 330 U.S. hiring managers, recruiters, and HR professionals overwhelmingly listed those criteria as numbers one and two.

But rounding out the top three was a surprising element that outweighed potential, education, and appearance: personality.

“Recruiters spend approximately 20% of an interview confirming if a candidate has the right skills to do the job, and the other 80% determining whether they’ll be a good fit for the team,” said Amanda Augustine, career expert for TopResume, and a certified professional career coach (CPCC) and a certified professional resume writer (CPRW).

People want to work with those they know, like, and trust, so it follows that showcasing your personality throughout your job search is the best way to fast-track that.

“You may be the most qualified,” said Augustine, “but if your personality won’t mesh well, it’s the end of the road for your candidacy.”

Augustine identified five areas job seekers can let their personalities shine to make a positive and memorable impression and give themselves a leg up on the competition:

1. Your LinkedIn profile

The About section of your LinkedIn profile is prime real estate, allowing you 2600 characters to explain what you do, whom you serve, and why it matters, making it easy for others to understand what you bring to the table. And unlike your resume, the summary section of your profile can be written in a first-person narrative style, inviting prospective employers to connect.

And don’t forget that the content you share and how you engage on social media also allow others a glimpse into your personality, so use the opportunity wisely.

2. On your job applications

Cover letters are not dead; they’re another strategic tool to help you showcase your personality through a compelling story and your unique voice and tone. Use yours to share how your qualifications align with the mission and culture of the company.

3. Using personality tests

Remember, personality fit is a two-way street; you’re also looking for a match with a potential company. Since many employers now use pre-employment assessments, familiarize yourself with various types, so you know what to expect and then answer each question honestly to ensure your next job is a good fit.

4. During interview Q&A

An interview process is a way for both sides to determine whether or not they’d like to partner. The savviest job seekers will prepare questions to help them better understand the role, the team they’d join and interact with, and the company culture, which helps them further qualify the job opportunity to aid in their decision. They’ll also practice answering situational questions that showcase their strengths, highlight their personality, and demonstrate how they interact and communicate with colleagues and customers.

5. The thank-you note you send

Don’t underestimate the power of a thank-you note for leaving a lasting positive impression. Use the opportunity to craft a personal message of gratitude that demonstrates details of what you’ve learned about your potential employer, why you’re qualified for the role, a common thread that connects you with them, and of course, your eagerness to join the team.

Augustine stresses that highlighting your personality is ultimately about finding a mutually good fit.

“Hiring the wrong person or accepting the wrong job offer are both costly mistakes, so finding ways to show your personality throughout your job search—not just during interviews—will ensure that both you and the employer ultimately find the right match.”

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When I'm not actively creating momentum (this newsletter and the other kind), I'm a social media ghostwriter. (Yep, that's a thing.) I help leaders craft their stories to communicate and connect better by magnifying their reach and impact. (Think personal branding and thought leadership.) Contact me if you'd like my help.