Secret Hacks to Get Hired: Tips to Land Your Dream Job

Job hunting can feel like an endless loop—hundreds of applications, countless rejections, and barely any callbacks. It’s frustrating, right? But here’s the truth: it’s not just about competition; it’s about strategy!

Instead of relying on traditional methods, LinkedIn can be your game-changer. When used the right way, it helps you connect with recruiters, get referrals, and tap into hidden job opportunities. In this blog, I’m sharing the exact strategies that actually work—whether you’re a fresher or looking for a career switch. Let’s get started!

1. Customize Your Resume for Every Job

Many job seekers make mistakes by using the same resume template available on websites or apps. However, companies use ATS(Applicant Tracking Systems) to filter resumes. If your resume doesn’t fit the keywords, it will not reach the recruiter table, and your application will be rejected in the first phase. 

How to fix this?

• Read the job description carefully and include relevant keywords in your resume.
• Highlight your skills and experience that match the job description. 
• Use headings and bullet points to make your resume easy to read.
• Keep your resume one to two pages, not too long.

2. Optimize your LinkedIn Profile 

Recruiters actively search for candidates on LinkedIn and if your profile is not optimized you will miss the opportunity. The first thing to correct is to optimize your profile by using relevant keywords that help to rank your profile whenever the recruiter searches for the specific candidate. 

How to fix this?

• Use the professional picture in your profile 
• Write a keyword-rich summary that highlights your skills and experience. 
• Add relevant skills and attach your colleague’s endorsement. 
• Connect with HR professionals and hiring managers in your industry 

3. Apply for jobs at the right time 

Did you know that Tuesday mornings are the best time to apply for jobs? 

Studies show that recruiters are most active on this day and they used to shortlist the candidates and prepare an interview list. 

How to fix this?

• Apply for jobs within 48 hours of their posting 
• Avoid applying late at night or on weekends.
• If a job listing is older than 7 days, chances are the recruiter has already selected candidates.  

4. Network like a pro

80% of jobs are filled through networking rather than direct application. Referrals increase your chances of getting hired. 

How to fix this?

• Reach out to your former colleagues, college alumni, and industry professionals. 
• Attend job fairs, exhibitions, and networking events. 
• Send polite messages on LinkedIn to hiring managers before applying. 

5. Ace the interview with the STAR method

Most candidates fail interviews because they don’t structure their answers properly. Recruiters love STAR responses:

• Situation- Describing the problems and challenges
• Task- Explain what you need to do.
• Action- Share the steps you took
• Result- Highlight the positive outcome. 

How to fix this? 

• Prepare your answer in the STAR method.
• Research the company and practice answering “Tell me about yourself”, etc basic questions.
• Use body language and maintain good eye contact.
• Send a thank you e-mail after the 7 interviews to leave a good impression. 

6. Develop In-Demand Skills

Companies always prefer candidates who are up-to-date with industry knowledge and industry trends. If you have the right skill set, you will always be in demand. 

How to fix this?

• Learn high-demand skills like data analytics, digital marketing, coding, and AI.
• Take certificates from renowned platforms like Coursera, Great Learning, Udeemy, LinkedIn Learning, etc. 
• Showcase your projects on Github Behance and your website for the recruiter to get knowledge about how to know. 
• Stay updated with the latest trends. 

7. Follow Up after applying.

Many job seekers after submitting their applications and waiting, following up can increase your chances of getting a response. It will Create a good impression in the mind of a recruiter. How passionate you are about that particular job role. 

How to fix this?

• Send a polite follow-up email to the recruiter after 5-7 days of applying. 
• Contact the recruiter on LinkedIn if you don’t hear back 
• If you’re rejected, ask for feedback to improve in the future. 

Pro Tip: Keep your follow-up short:

“Hi [Recruiter’s Name], I applied for [Job Title] at [Company] last week and wanted to check the status. I’m excited about this opportunity. Please let me know if you need any further information from me. Thanks!”

Comparison of the work job strategies.

The most important factors are Skills and experience (40%) and Networking and referrals (30%), followed by Resume, Interview Performance, and Timing.

Conclusion: 

Getting hired doesn’t have to be difficult if you use the right strategies. Customizing your resume and optimizing your LinkedIn, networking, etc., activity will easily land you your dream job. 

Remember to stay consistent, keep learning new skills, stay proactive in your job search and don’t be afraid to reach out to people for help. Now that you know these secret hiring hacks, start applying and make the necessary changes in your approach and you will see how quickly you will get your dream job.

At IRA Skills, we dive deep into this topic in our Sunday workshops, where we guide you step by step on using LinkedIn for job applications and exploring other platforms for better opportunities. Join us and kickstart your job search with the right strategy!