5 job search tips to help you stand out to employers

Searching for work can feel frustrating at times. Even when you’re following common job search tips, it’s not always easy to find opportunities that suit your unique skills, goals, or circumstances.

If you’ve been applying for roles without much success, it may be time to try a different approach.

These five practical strategies can help you stand out to employers and uncover opportunities you might not find through traditional job ads.

And remember, you don't have to navigate your job search alone. Support may be available if you need help. 

1. Advertise yourself to employers

Most job seekers spend their time searching for job ads and sending applications. But another strategy is to promote yourself directly to employers.

Think of it as creating opportunities rather than waiting for them.

Where to promote yourself

Many job platforms allow you to upload your resume so employers can search for candidates.

Sites like Seek or Indeed let employers find people based on skills, experience, and keywords. 

Completing your profile fully can improve your chances of appearing in employer searches.

When uploading your resume, include relevant:

• Job titles

• Skills

• Industry keywords

These help employers find your profile when they search for candidates.

You can also share a post on LinkedIn or Facebook explaining the type of work you’re looking for. 

Your network may know of opportunities that haven’t been advertised yet.

Learning how to present your strengths clearly can also help when writing resumes and preparing for interviews.

 2. Build genuine connections

Submitting applications online is common, but building a connection with someone in the company can make a strong impression.

Before applying for a role, consider reaching out to someone who works there.

You might:

• Call the office to ask questions about the role

• Connect with someone on LinkedIn

• Attend an industry event or community group

When making contact, focus on building a genuine conversation rather than simply asking for a job.

Ask questions, listen carefully, and show interest in the organisation. Employers often remember people who demonstrate curiosity and enthusiasm.

Personalise your application

If possible, address your cover letter to a specific person rather than using a generic greeting.

LinkedIn or the company website can help you identify the right contact.

Small details like this show employers that you’ve taken the time to research the company.

3. Demonstrate your value early in your job search 

One of the most powerful job search tips is to show employers how you can help them, before they even hire you.

If there’s a company you’d really like to work for, spend time researching them.

Look at:

• Their services or products

• Their target audience

• Recent news or projects

Then think about how your skills could help them.

For example, you might:

• Share ideas on improving a process

• Suggest ways to reach new customers

• Provide a small work sample that shows your skills

This approach shows initiative and helps employers see the value you could bring to their organisation.

4. Use social media strategically

Social media isn’t just for keeping in touch with friends. It can also be a powerful job search tool.

Join industry communities

Facebook groups or LinkedIn communities related to your industry can help you connect with people who share similar interests.

Some employers advertise roles in these groups before posting them on large job boards.

Share examples of your work

If your role involves creative or practical skills, social media can help you showcase them.

For example, you might share:

• Design work

• Photography

• Writing samples

• Completed projects

This creates a simple digital portfolio that employers can view. Platforms like Canva can help you professionally design your portfolio, with free templates available. 

Let people know you’re job searching

Many roles are filled through word of mouth.

Posting via social media that you’re looking for work can help your network recommend opportunities or introduce you to employers.

Review your online presence

Employers may look at your social media before inviting you to an interview.

Take a moment to review your profiles and make sure they reflect the qualities you’d like an employer to see.

5. Get support with your job search

Sometimes the biggest difference in a job search is having the right support.

If you’re living with a disability, injury, or a health condition, you may be eligible for Inclusive Employment Australia, a government-funded program that helps people prepare for, find, and keep a job.

When you register with a provider such as APM, you can access personalised support, including:

• Help finding suitable job opportunities

• Career advice and job search tips

• Resume and job application support

• Interview preparation

• Access to training or courses

• Support with workplace adjustments

• Funding for work-related costs, such as transport or uniforms

• Ongoing support after you start work

The goal is to help you find work that suits your skills, interests, and support needs.

With the right guidance, the job search process can feel more manageable, and you may discover opportunities you hadn’t considered before.

If you’re ready to explore your options, you can register with APM and speak with a team member about the support available.

Support is available for your job search

Looking for work can take time, but the right strategies and support can make a real difference.

Trying new approaches, like building connections, showcasing your skills, and using social platforms, can help you uncover opportunities that traditional job searches may miss.

And if you’d like personalised help, the team at APM is here to support you every step of the way.

Get in touch with our team today to see if you are eligible for the IEA program, or to see how we can help you with your job hunt. 

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Inclusive Employment Australia in Australia.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au