Hiring Trends in 2018 You Need to Know About

As we move into the new year, many changes are happening with companies’ hiring practices. In some cases, hiring managers won’t even see your resume. Here are five hiring trends in 2018 you need to know about.

  • Apprenticeships Are Popular

Because Germany has been using apprenticeship programs to build its highly skilled workforce, the United States will follow suit. U.S. vocational schools, universities and organizations will begin implementing apprenticeships for manufacturing, trade and other high-skilled jobs. Benefits of apprenticeships include lower recruitment costs, increased productivity and reduced turnover. Also, because apprenticeships customize training to meet industry standards and increase safety, they may reduce workers’ compensation costs. Given the fact that Germany has a low unemployment rate due to a reliable pipeline of qualified workers, having apprenticeships in the United States may help reduce unemployment here as well.

  • Artificial Intelligence Assists with Hiring

AI and machine learning quickly analyze large amounts of data to make hiring decisions and predictions. HR can better define a job posting’s perfect candidate, find qualified workers in search pools and more quickly fill job openings. Companies like Unilever are using AI when hiring entry-level employees to increase diversity and decrease costs. This practice replaces collecting resumes, sending company representatives to universities or conducting phone interviews with candidates. When a candidate passes the AI screening process, they participate in an in-person job interview.

  • HR Takes a Team Approach

The new work model involves changing job roles and job descriptions, rethinking careers and internal mobility, and emphasizing skills and learning to measure employee performance. The model is also changing how leaders lead and how businesses set goals and reward employees. In addition, there is a greater focus on culture and engagement, delivering on-demand learning and helping departments share information to collaborate better.

  • Companies Focus on Employee Value Propositions

Because businesses are competing for smaller numbers of qualified candidates, companies need to communicate their top selling points for workers to work for them. A strong EVP represents pay, benefits, training, career development opportunities and other aspects that make a business attractive to workers and sets it apart from the competition.

  • Businesses Create Great Candidate Experiences

When candidates participate in a personalized and engaging recruitment process, they feel more connected with the company and are more likely to want to work there. Because a great candidate experience maintains open communication throughout the recruiting process, the candidate understands where they are and are less likely to decide to work for a competitor.

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The Top Five Ways to Ace a Marketing Interview

Interviewing for a marketing role can be stressful. However, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of making a positive impression and being extended a job offer. Here are five ways to ace a marketing interview.

  • Be Prepared

Research all you can about the company and the interviewers. Understand what the company does and what its mission, values and culture are.

Read the company’s social media pages, blog posts and news section of its website to learn about recent achievements, new campaigns or issues the company’s experiencing. Find out what the company’s target audience is, its role in the industry and products/services it produces. Uncover the company’s revenues, competitors and management structure. Visit LinkedIn to find out the interviewers’ roles in the organization and whether you have mutual connections or interests. Also, print several copies of your resume for the interviewers to refer to and references to call. In addition, prepare multiple samples of your writing or other work to demonstrate your quality and thoroughness. Be prepared to discuss two or three pieces that relate to the position you want.

  • Practice Answering Questions

Ask a family member or friend to ask you potential interview questions and provide constructive feedback. Typical interview questions involve your work style, strengths and weaknesses, and projects you’re proud of. For example, “What are your favorite marketing blogs and why?” “Tell me about a campaign you were involved in that didn’t go as well as expected. What do you think went wrong?” “How have you successfully incorporated online marketing tools into previous campaigns?”

Ensure you quantify your successes to demonstrate how you added value for past employers and can add value for your next employer.

  • Dress Appropriately

Men should wear a dark suit, such as black or navy, with a light-colored dress shirt, such as white or blue, and matching tie. Women should wear a dark suit coat with matching pants or skirt and a light-colored dress shirt. Wear matching socks or hosiery. Ensure your hair is styled, makeup is minimal and shoes are polished.

  • Ask Questions

Listen and respond to what the interviewer says, then follow up with your own question. Add in your opinions and thoughts as well. You’ll keep the interviewer engaged in the conversation and stand out from your competitors. Remember to pause after each question so you can think about the answer.

  • Send a Thank-You Email

Let each interviewer know you appreciate their time. Mention two or three topics you discussed that make you the best candidate for the role. Tell them you look forward to hearing from them soon.

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For help with securing your next marketing position, contact WinCorp Solutions!

How to Get Ahead in Digital Marketing

When working in digital marketing, you need to stay ahead of the competition. Because the industry is rapidly evolving, it is important you take steps to remain updated and continue providing value to your organization. Here are five ways to get ahead in digital marketing:

  • Set Career Goals

Set and achieve goals for your digital marketing career. Focus on what you want and what steps you can take to get there. Determine what skills and experience you need to secure your dream job and what roles you need to take on first. Continually seeking opportunities to improve yourself and move forward in your career path.

  • Create a Portfolio

Build a portfolio showcasing your work and achievements. Include tangible examples of projects you worked on and ones that resulted in successful results. For example, you may have increased website traffic, conversion rates, or followers on social media pages. Also, ensure you include a link to your online portfolio every time you apply for a position. Even if your work does not directly relate to the role, it demonstrates your transferrable skills. In addition, save your statistics, feedback, email correspondence, and other documentation showing you are making a difference for companies. You can use the information during interviews to show you can grow a brand and connect with target audiences.

  • Build Your Presence

Create your profile to show hiring managers what you have to offer. For example, utilize social media to participate in industry conversations and comment on articles or blogs. Also, actively participate in professional conferences and events to network with other professionals and stay current in your field. In addition, volunteer as a speaker, sit on a panel, or conduct a workshop to demonstrate your knowledge and leadership abilities.

  • Participate in Self-Directed Learning

Determine which are the most sought-after skills in digital marketing and teach yourself to master them. For example, you can study blogs, magazines, books, and video tutorials or participate in clubs and classes to teach yourself coding. Because of the significant skills shortage, you will face less competition and have a variety of career options to choose from.

  • Network

Always network. For example, join local clubs about coding, web design, and development or a different topic that interests you. Participate in digital round table discussions about the latest marketing techniques or other topics. In addition, you can participate in LinkedIn Group discussions related to your industry by sharing your knowledge and learning from others. You should also take part in seminars, conferences, and professional associations in your field. You will make new connections and uncover opportunities while remaining current with industry news and trends.

  • Partner with WinCorp Solutions

These are five ways to get ahead in digital marketing. For assistance with moving your career forward, contact WinCorp Solutions today.