Premier Alliance Group

Ask Matt: Following Up: Focus on Standing Out?
Ask Matt: How should I use an eFolio?

Ask Matt: Following Up: Focus On Standing Out

When following up with employers, there is more to it than simply placing a phone call. Use these tips and strategies to really make an impact - and stand out from the crowd.

By Matt Krumrie, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing
Last update: January 4, 2010 - 11:41 AM

Dear Matt: When following up, what do employers really want job seekers to do? Does it really make me stand out from the rest of the crowd?

Matt:Following up after submitting a resume or attending an interview is extremely important.

"Don't ever think you are bothering employers," says Alissa Henriksen, president of Premier Alliance Group (www.premieralliancegroup.net), a Twin Cities-based firm offering permanent staffing solutions. "For most employers it could be an automatic out for you if you don't follow up."

However, there are some general guidelines to follow. Henriksen offers these do's and don'ts.

Do's

If you've applied for a job online or through a company website, follow up via phone within three days. Before you make the call re-read the job description and pick out two key points that match your experience to the job that you can discuss with the hiring manager. Use examples to show him or her why you should be considered.

If you get the hiring manger's voice mail it's OK to say that you will follow up again in four to five days if you don't hear back from them.

Find other ways to connect with employers or hiring manager - for example, through LinkedIn. This way you can also show off more about your background and experience through your LinkedIn profile.

When you conclude an interview make sure to ask the hiring manager what the next steps are in the process. Then simply ask what the best way to follow-up with him or her is. Be sure to get a business card so you can send a personal thank you note.

Don'ts

Don't simply apply for a job and expect that you're going to get a call. Turn yourself into a viable candidate by following up and thinking outside the box on ways to separate yourself. Here's a tip: Research the company and mention a core value of yours that aligns with one of its core values. This helps show the employer that your background aligns with the culture of the company. Employers want the right fit as well as the person with the right skills/experience.

Never ramble when leaving a voice mail or writing a thank you. Practice before calling, be precise and confident.

"You will always have a much better chance of standing out from the crowd if you put yourself out there," says Henriksen.

Matt Krumrie is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, and has nine years of experience reporting on the employment industry. This column will answer readers' questions. E-mail questions or subject ideas to askmatt@startribune.com.

Ask Matt: How should I use an eFolio?

Attention Minnesota residents: There is a great tool that can help you create an online portfolio to help you in your job search. While it won't replace the need for a resume, it's another resource to help you stand out from the crowd and impress an employer - and it's free.

By Matt Krumrie, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing
Last update: September 28, 2009 - 1:41 PM

Dear Matt: A number of people have started using eFoliominnesota.com in addition to résumés. Through eFolio, Minnesota residents can create an online portfolio for free. What do you do with the eFolio once it's complete to really use it effectively?

Matt: You are correct, a number of people are using eFolio as a way to attract the attention of employers. In fact, it was confirmed by a representative with the state-funded website that there are currently over 110,000 people who use eFolio. While a résumé is still the main document an employer will want to view, an eFolio can be a great supplement, says Alissa Henriksen, president of the Premier Alliance Group (www.premieralliancegroup.net), a Twin Cities-based firm offering permanent staffing solutions.

"An eFolio is a great tool for recruiters because it's just one more avenue for us to learn everything we need to learn about a candidate," says Henriksen.

How can eFolio help you? Here are some tips from Henriksen:

Place the link on your résumé next to your e-mail address and on your LinkedIn page.

Send a handwritten thank you letter after an interview inviting them to check out your online portfolio.

E-mail a quick reminder to check out your eFolio if it's been a while since you've heard from the hiring manager after your interview. This is another great way to stay in front of employers.

Add the link on your business cards. Placing the eFolio link on your business card allows anyone you network with another opportunity to get to know you professionally.

Include your eFolio link on your cover letter, inviting employers to learn all they can about you.

Henriksen admits, an employer that doesn't have the time to check out an eFolio probably isn't too interested in the candidate, but if something really jumped out at them on your résumé they will proceed to research your background through your eFolio. "As an owner of a recruiting company I am constantly finding ways to research candidates," says Henriksen. "You are selling yourself, and a tool like eFolio provides you with an online brag book."