How to differentiate yourself from others applying to the same job

We recently reached out to Mike Wysocki to ask for his advice about a question that is often asked by students, recent graduates, and others who are early in their careers: how can they stand apart from others who are applying to the same job if they all have similar backgrounds?

Mike spent more than 30 years in the workforce, before he began researching occupations. His goal was to help the next generation make more informed decisions than he did. Speaking to students and educators about career readiness is his new profession. In January 2023, his book, Careers By the People, was published and instantly became a best seller then won seven awards. It received endorsements from educators of many institutions such as Stanford, Harvard, UMass, BU, Northeastern, branches of the military, non-profits as well as career coaches, students, and critically acclaimed authors.

Mike’s advice is simple: follow-up. Did you just meet with someone to network with them? Get interviewed by a recruiter or hiring manager? Do what few others do by sending to them a short email thanking them, telling them that you appreciated their time, offer to connect on LinkedIn, and then occasionally check in with them, even if they didn’t hire you because they’ll likely be in a position to hire you in the future, and very well may know someone who wants to hire you today.