Some candidates know that thinking outside the box and putting their creativity to good use can help them land a job.
CareerBuilder, which helps companies target and attract talent, conducted a survey between May 14 and June 5 this year among more than 2,000 hiring managers and human resource professionals in the US, to find out the most memorable techniques candidates have used to stand out.
Here’s a list of some out-of-the-ordinary techniques that worked so far:
1. Candidate contracted a billboard outside of employer’s office.
2. Candidate gave a resume on a chocolate bar.
3. Candidate showed up in a suit with a red T-shirt underneath a white shirt. The red T-shirt had a message, “Hire me, I work hard.”
4. Candidate asked to be interviewed in Spanish to showcase his skills
5. Candidate crafted the cover letter like an invitation to hire her rather than a request (similar to a wedding invitation).
6. Candidate volunteered to help out with making copies when he saw interviewer’s assistant was getting frazzled.
7. Candidate repaired a piece of company’s equipment during the first interview.
8. Candidate sent a message in a bottle.
This doesn’t mean applicants should be outrageous or go over the top to get noticed. Experts advise that some techniques work best if they help demonstrate the skills and abilities that employers are looking for.
“Employers typically are not looking for the most outrageous candidate, they’re looking for the best fit,” said Rosemary Haefner, vice president of Human Resources at CareerBuilder. “Thinking outside the box is great, but the stunts that work best are the ones that showcased your relevant skills and abilities. The focus of the interview should be why you would be a great addition to the team, and not what you’re willing to do to get noticed.”
