LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Tens of thousands of Las Vegas residents are without jobs. That's why 13 Action News is putting extra emphasis on helping you find work. We're asking the experts how to make yourself stand out when applying for your next job.
TEMPORARY OR SHORT-TERM
"Being at home is not me. I need something to do," said Vegas valley local Amanda Holiday.
When her work stopped due to the pandemic, Amanda says she started looking for something new pretty quickly.
"I do have about 20 years of payroll experience. So anything in that realm I was comfortable with. Pick up even as a temporary job or short-term assignment," said Amanda.
ALWAYS UPDATE MY RESUME
Amanda says she recently landed a new job with help from the Robert Half employment agency. But she says the key to finding work fast was being prepared.
"I've been one of those people that always update my resume all the time," said Amanda.
"We see resumes for all skill sets that we place for, from entry-level roles to leadership roles," said Damian Garcia, regional vice president for Robert Half in Las Vegas.
LIST ESSENTIAL SOFTWARE
He says it's important to highlight your ability with any essential software.
"If you use many different software platforms, list those and the years of experience you have," said Damian.
INCLUDE AWARDS
Be sure to also include any awards or accomplishments.
"An award speaks to your ability to excel," said Damian.
But Damian says to also keep your resume professional.
NO CARTOON OR WEIRD FONT
"You think you've seen it all until that next one where there might be a cartoon or the weird font," he said.
"You see that quite a bit. It's very very interesting what people put out there and wonder why it's challenging to get a job. It's a snapshot of who you are. You've got to be really careful," said Damian.
Once your resume is complete, post it online.
A recent survey from global staffing firm Accountemps says managers are most impressed when candidates provide access to a digital portfolio or personal website.
STRONG COVER LETTER
They also like to see you connecting with employees on social media, like LinkedIn.
Finally, Damian says to include a strong cover letter.
It could help you stand out in a world where more and more companies are using computers to filter through resumes.
"That might help get the computer's attention, so it lands on someone's desk," said Damian.
DON'T GIVE UP
Amanda offers one other piece of advice and says, be persistent.
"Don't give up. Please don't give up. There are a lot of opportunities out there. But you can't limit yourself," said Amanda.
