Job Hunting: Been there done that, here's five ways to make you stand out

Job hunting is stressful. It's a harsh world out there, and interviews can be brutal. You have to stay one step ahead of the game if you want to be the best. You know you're the perfect fit for the job. You just have to make sure employers know it too.

When in a pool of applicants, it's easy to get lost in the crowd. You need to stand out. You need to make yourself memorable. You need them to need you.

1.) Get Noticed BEFORE you apply

Market yourself on social platforms( cough cough, Linkedin). Make yourself a high performer just by the content on your profile, highlight rewards, and accomplishments. Create a portfolio showcasing your best work. Change your portfolio pieces based on the job you are applying for. If you can't be found in a google search, I promise most employers will ignore you. Make sure they know your badass before you even walk through the door.

2.) RESEARCH. RESEARCH. RESEARCH.

Use the internet to your advantage. Fake it till you make it baby. They don't have to know you'd never heard of the company before a week ago. When you walk through the door, you should be a grade A genius about the job, skill requirements, and company background.

3.) First, Impressions are EVERYTHING.

You never know who you are talking to. Treat everyone like they are the most important person in the room.

Dress for success. If you feel like a badass, you'll come off to the employer as a badass.

Make eye contact, smile, say their name. Make the employees feel seen. Make them know you WANT to be there.

Pay attention to body language.

If your mouth says one thing, but your body language doesn't match, the employees will be confused. Don't say you are excited to be there with your arms crossed. The way you present yourself paints a picture.

4.) Customize your resume and portfolio based on the opportunity.

One size does not fit all when job hunting. Emphasize jobs, experiences, and awards that correlate with the specific skills they are looking for.

5.) Ace the Interview

Use the information you researched and use it to your advantage. Sell yourself, let them know that you would be an asset to the company.

Take samples of your work to the interview. Show them that the work you've done in the past has prepared you for this job. Be ready with ideas. Tell them how you would improve the company through the role. Have questions ready, and not the typical company culture questions. Dig into the company, show them you're curious to know more.

Don't stress it. You have to go through any jobs and interviews to find the one that is meant for you. Go in confident and remember who tf you are. Any company would be lucky to have you.