4 Ways to Stand Out to Hiring Employers

Job hunting is no joke—especially in a market where employers hold the cards. Open roles get flooded with applicants; sometimes, over 100 people have already applied before you even click the details. 

Whether you're job searching for the first time in years or navigating a mid-career pivot, having the right tools (and mindset) can make all the difference—even when the market feels stacked against you.

Looking for a job? 👀 Here’s how to stand out during employer-favored hiring markets.

📲 Get recruiters to swipe right on your resume

Ever been on a dating app? I have… a few times. 

And while interviewing happens on a professional stage, a lot of the same dating dynamics apply. First impressions matter—big time.

Think of your resume as your profile. It should be skimmable, easy to read, and free of any grammatical mistakes. Highlight your accomplishments, not just your responsibilities. Show the “receipts,” as they say—whether that's metrics, wins, or big milestones.

Also, tailor your resume to the opening you’re applying for. For a marketing role, you might want to highlight strategic thinking, high creativity, and strong analysis. If it’s sales, lean into CRM experience, close rates, and resilience. One size rarely fits all, so adjust your approach based on the opportunity.

✨ Review Glassdoor for your opportunities to shine

Glassdoor is your secret weapon for interview prep. You can see from the perspective of current and former employees how well the company is operating—the good, the bad, and the “please run.” Use this info to guide your questions during interviews. This not only shows that you’ve done your homework, but it also allows you to position yourself as a solution. It’s a subtle way to say, “Hey, I see the gap—and I’m someone who can help fill it.”

🤝 Network like it's your job!

I can personally thank networking for every job I’ve had post-college. Whether it’s building a strong personal presence on LinkedIn (which can be a game changer for standing out from other seekers), or boots-on-the-ground networking events (shaking hands and kissing babies... you know the drill), I believe it’s WHO you know that gets you in the door—and WHAT you know that keeps you there.

Yes, many of us are still a little socially awkward after spending the better part of five years robbed of “normal” (thanks, pandemic), but getting out there matters. Attend a local industry event or join a professional group. You never know who you’ll bump into. :)

⚖️ Leverage tools to keep tabs on market demand

The job market is constantly evolving. Remember 2020? Roles were limited, and companies were pausing hiring. Fast-forward to 2022, and businesses were overpaying in a rush to fill roles. Now, with the rise of AI and automation, we’ve shifted again—welcome to the employer’s market..

Understanding these shifts helps you manage realistic expectations—and spot the market changes you can trust to increase your value. Right now could be the perfect time to explore AI tools, earn certifications, and learn how to leverage these skills in future roles or help companies implement them.

Looking for work can be overwhelming, but being proactive, informed, and intentional about your approach can set you apart. A friend of Accelity’s, Amanda Daering, has a GREAT tool for keeping track of the hiring market.

I hope this helps! If you have questions—or if someone in your circle is job searching—send this their way or message me here!