As I was wrapping up items for 2020, I visited with my company human resources partners affiliated with North Texas LEAD. I asked them to reflect on 2020 LEAD applicants and identify some sage advice that could be shared with our applicants to enhance the effectiveness of their applications.

Lesson #1: Maximizing your on-line application

Almost all employers utilize and on-line application. A thoughtful review of the 2020 applications is that many applicants weaken their application right from the start.

TIP 1A: Even though you may fill out the on-line application and uploaded your resume you may question why both are needed.  Which application format used is entirely up to the hiring manager. An applicant cannot afford to “shirk”     either one.

TIP 1B: Do not use “see resume” rather than filing in, what may be duplicated information from your uploaded resume. Add a cover letter as required.

TIP 1C:  If an educational institution is on your prospective employer list, anticipate the need for all higher education transcripts. Order them in advance so you have them available to submit with your application in a timely manner.

Lesson #2: Periodic Refreshing is required

While you may have been job hunting for an extended period, you may need to freshen up a couple of things to keep your job search fresh.

TIP 2A: Make sure you resume is up to date. Lose the “fancy formats” as they do not transfer well to the on-line applications. Do not forget to send any updated resume to North Texas LEAD (ntlgroup@northtexaslead.org)

TIP 2B: Periodic Communication is needed.  As you go forward, keep LEAD abreast of your status (still looking, a landing, issues, or problems).

TIP 2B: Refresh what you know of the LEAD program. If you have not attended a LEAD Briefing either within the last six months or ever this is the time to do so.

Lesson #3: Job Market Competitiveness

Many have questioned their lack of consideration for an interview given their considerable experience and education.

TIP 3A: This is an unusual time and a most unusual job market. There are many people in the market and many more who would not enter the market were it not for the layoffs, closings, and furloughs as the result of the pandemic. Keep this “funnel” concept in mind:

Keep these lessons and tips in mind when proceeding through 2021.   Good luck!!!!!

EXISTING APPLICANTS

Notifying LEAD Staff of your job activity is the best way to help us help you! You must use the forms below to update LEAD staff on any interactions you have with LEAD employers including applications, phone screens, interviews, job offers, job declinations, etc.….

  • Did You Apply?– Submit this form after applying to LEAD partner employer jobs. Upon receipt, LEAD staff will review your resume against the preferred qualifications of the job description. Exceptionally qualified applications will be referred to LEAD employer representatives.
  • I Got an Interview– Complete this form to let us know you have interviewed with a LEAD partner employer (include phone screens).
  • I’m Hired!– Whether you have landed with a LEAD partner employer or not, we want to know about it! Complete this form to help LEAD focus our efforts on assisting active job seekers.
  • Updated Resume/New Contact Information– Help LEAD keep our records current by uploading new documents here.

**To notify us of job offers declined please email LEAD staff at ntlgroup@northtexaslead.org