Shortlisting is the process of selecting a list of preferable items or candidates that have been selected for final consideration, as in making an award or filling a position. In the recruitment process, shortlisting comes after sourcing (finding and attracting) and before interviewing and further assessing. Screening and shortlisting often happen simultaneously: as you screen resumes from candidates, you shortlist the best ones to move forward.

From a recruiter’s point of view, shortlisting criteria> is majorly based on:

A. How well you’ve presented your knowledge and skills
B. How impressive your resume and CV is
C. How relevant your resume is to the job
D. How positive and promising you sound

Now let’s deal with each of these in some details.

Presentation of knowledge and skills You may have many skills and all required knowledge in the particular field but the presentation is a whole other thing altogether.

Possessing all knowledge but not knowing how to present it can do no positives to your shortlisting process. You have to follow the proper systematic way to include it. You have to have a structure and a proper sequence to your skills and qualifications so that it is easy to view and work upon.

It should ideally be according to the ascending order of your qualifications.Skills should be listed according to the relevance they carry with the job you’ve applied for.

Impression your resume gives

Recruiters first look for the applicant’s objective or mission statement. The resume should contain a clear statement that indicates they understand the industry, the company’s business, its core values, and the specific role they are seeking.

The second thing they look for in a resume is a sign of leadership or leadership potential. The level of leadership experience will vary among applicants, though anyone can exhibit leadership qualities regardless of title. Applicants should ask themselves whether their resume highlights a particular activity, event, or action that is an example of a willingness to step up, inspire, and lead others.

The question on relevance

The relevant information that shows the applicant is a well-rounded individual that has a strong work ethic, apart from qualifications, is a commitment to the community, and personal passions. What did you as a new college graduate do beyond the classroom?

Activities like working a job while attending college, volunteering, personal hobbies,and community service can all provide valuable insight into a candidate. Just make sure it is relevant and you’re not listing your cooking skills or interests in a job for a sales manager.

Be positive, be promising!

Now, this is not isolated from other factors. All the above mentioned factors make a resume and a candidate sound promising.

A certain way to do is to be formative.

Salutation: Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms & Last Name

Introduction: In the first paragraph, make the reader aware of why you’re writing this letter. This means in essence – let them know who you are, include the job you’re applying for, and make mention of your objective.

2nd Paragraph: Touch on why you’d like to work for the company, and let them know of any knowledge or passion you have for this sector.

3rd Paragraph: Highlight your relevant skills and experience (as listed on your CV). Summarise any other strengths or qualifications you might have.

Closing: This paragraph should round up your cover letter, begin by reiterating your key skills and how they match the job role, then move on to thanking the employer for their time to read and mention that you look forward to hearing back from them.

Be positive about getting a call back and you will get one. Create your resume with CV Owl and get the best chances to get called up for an interview.

All the best!!

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