The manufacturing industry is a highly competitive career field, making it pivotal for candidates to stand out. However, with recruiters receiving dozens of resumes for even just one job listing, it can become challenging to land the position of your dreams.
Fortunately, there is hope for manufacturing candidates despite the challenges of getting into the industry. Below, we discuss a few tips for finding success in the hiring process and how you can stand out in the talent pool.
Manufacturing Industry Job Outlook
The manufacturing industry continues to grow, with the job outlook looking generally positive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupational openings in manufacturing across the country are projected to grow significantly in the next decade, with thousands of jobs becoming available in the industry.
Because the manufacturing industry is so vast, candidates have several career options, which makes the industry’s job outlook all the more positive. We expect manufacturing jobs to continue moving in the right direction, emphasizing the need for top-tier candidates looking to stand out.
How to Stand Out as a Candidate in the Manufacturing Sector
Are you ready to start your career or move up to a higher position in the manufacturing sector? Consider the following tips as you pursue a job in this field and see how you can stand out from the rest of the crowd.
1. Apply Early
Applying early is one of the best ways to stand out as a job candidate. Because manufacturing employment can be competitive, it’s better to apply as early as possible in the hopes that your application will be easily viewed right off the bat.
Stay updated on manufacturing career opportunities by habitually checking job boards like LinkedIn and Indeed. To speed up the process, prepare application materials ahead of time, such as keeping your resume as updated as possible and writing a cover letter tailored to the position.
If you can keep your application toward the top of the pile, you’ll have a better chance of standing out. So, keep your eyes peeled for the opportunities you are the most interested in, and apply as soon as possible.
2. Prepare for the Interview
Once you’ve landed an interview, it’s important to prepare. Going into a manufacturing interview without questions and answers prepared may decrease your chances of landing the position, especially if the interviewer can tell that you didn’t do any research upfront.
Inevitably, you will receive many of the same interview questions—what interests you about the position, your goals over the next few years, what makes you the right candidate, etc. Preparing unique answers ahead of time to these generic questions can give you a leg up.
3. Do Your Research on the Company
It’s important to research the company you are interviewing with. Interviewers like to see that you have a sense of the company’s values and a clear understanding of what they do. Without these insights, you may not stand out as a manufacturing candidate.
When doing your research, review the company’s history, its services, and its target customers. Browse the company’s website and pull information before your interview to show that you understand the company and can direct the conversation toward how you would fit into the position.
4. Possess Knowledge of the Industry
Already possessing knowledge of the industry can give you a leg up during the hiring process. While entry-level positions may not require as much industry knowledge, those looking to move higher on the ladder will need a certain level of experience.
When speaking with the interviewer, showcase your strengths and accomplishments based on previous work experience. The interviewer may ask you to identify your top skills and how they relate to the position, so be prepared to discuss them.
Additionally, don’t feel discouraged from applying to a position if you don’t have all the experience they are looking for. Some companies are open to hiring candidates who may not meet all the qualifications but are eager to learn and grow.
5. Ask Questions
Preparing your own questions to ask during your interview will better showcase your preparedness and interest in the position. Interviewers value a two-way conversation, so bring something to the table that gives you the opportunity to stand out as a manufacturing candidate.
Adding some specificity to your questions rather than sticking to generic ones can give you a leg up. Consider asking about projects the company has worked on, what skills are needed to succeed in the role, and challenges you may face as an employee.
6. Work With a Manufacturing Staffing Agency
A manufacturing staffing agency can connect you to the right career path. Staffing agencies give you the chance to work with a recruiter who can guide you in the right direction and through the hiring process.
With manufacturing being such a large industry, it can be challenging to get exposure to the top job listings in the field. And, as we’ve learned, standing out from others poses many challenges.
Staffing agencies specializing in manufacturing hiring know about job openings ahead of time. At Austin Nichols, for example, we can connect you with employers who are exclusive to us. This gives you a chance to stand out in the hiring process, and you are more likely to find a position you love.
Are you looking for your next manufacturing position in Kansas City? Contact Austin Nichols today for professional guidance and support.
