Top Apartment Job Search Tips for 2014
The apartment job market in 2013 saw an overall boost; however, while apartment jobs were created, competition has also increased as those jobs become more desirable. The benefits of an apartment job are manifold: solid starting pay, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for upward mobility. With the New Year your job search strategy must take the current job market into account. Here’s how to get hired at an apartment job in 2014:
1.) Ace Your Cover Letter
Rather than becoming outdated or a thing of the past, cover letters are more relevant than ever. If an employer specifically requests that you submit a cover letter you should send in your best work. In the absence of a cover letter or if an employer does not request one, sending in letters of reference can provide a beneficial supplement to your resume.
2.) Get More Training
Apartment jobs in booming cities such as Austin and Houston will only increase in demand in 2014. Thus, more training will help set you apart from the rest of the pack of applicants. New to the apartment industry? Take a Leasing 101 course. Or if you are experienced, try honing your sales or marketing skills.
3.) Ask the Right Interview Questions
Your 2014 job search should not be about you; it should be about what you can do for the property where you would like to be hired. This is not to say that you should not pursue your own career goals; but rather you should not promote them during your interview. Don’t ask what an apartment property can do for you, but what you can do for it.
4.) Make the Most of Personal Branding
While personal branding is not a new concept, it will definitely continue to be relevant in 2014. Just as properties are marketing themselves, you must do the same. Your personal brand should be consistent, professional, and targeted to the vibrant nature of the apartment industry. Ultimately, your personal brand will fit cohesively with the image of the property where you work.
5.) Use a Staffing Company
Currently, in Houston and Austin the apartment job market is oversaturated with applicants. This means that applicants are having to go the extra mile to get noticed, even if they are highly qualified. One of the best ways to do this is to use a staffing company, which can get your foot in the door and your resume on a property manager’s desk. Staffing companies often have longstanding relationships with properties and can match you with the property that is the best fit. In the midst of such steep competition—which will only continue to increase—any means by which you can gain an advantage is an outstanding benefit; and a staffing company is an effective way to do this.
The outlook for apartment jobs in 2014 is optimistic, and starting your job search off right with these tips will put you ahead of the game and at the property you’ve got your eye on.
If you have any further questions or your or someone you know needs help with their jobs search in 2014 email us at careers@hirepriority.com.
