In today’s competitive job market, your Merojob profile is more than a way to apply for jobs; it's your first introduction to potential employers. A profile can single handedly decide whether you get the job or not.

Since your profile is such an important subject you need to ensure that it's crafted well in order to leave a good impression upon the hiring managers. But what do the hiring managers look for exactly? Well here are six things that will help you make a better impression on the hiring managers:

1. A Complete, Up-to-Date Profile

Your experience, skills, education and expectations grow along with time. So having an outdated profile can lead you to miss out on appropriate opportunities and may even lead you to opportunities that are inappropriate for you. It is essential to ensure that your job expectations align with the company’s hiring expectations.

Tips:

• Make sure to fill in every section including your career objective summary, job preference, education, skills, and languages.
• Keep your information up to date. If you have changed your job, gained training or completed your education ensure that it's mentioned in your profile.
• Use a professional-looking profile photo that aligns with the role you’re aiming for.
• Avoid vague descriptions instead add specific achievements and measurable results.

2. Relevant Work Experience

When you apply for any sort of job, relevant work experience always boosts your application. It allows you to showcase that you have real world skills in order to tackle the job. This acts as a sort of proof for your skills and knowledge. Even if you want to change the industry, work experience can do wonders to portray your soft skills.

Tips:

• List your work experience in reverse chronological order (most recent first).
• Use action verbs like “managed,” “implemented,” or “achieved.”
• Include specific results e.g., “Led a team of 10 employees to successfully deliver projects ahead of deadline.”
• Highlight roles and responsibilities relevant to your target job.

3. Skills & Keywords

These days hiring managers value skills more than anything else. Not only do your skills exhibit your capabilities but they also make it easier for hiring managers to go through your application. 

Tips:

• Identify the most in-demand skills for your industry (you can find these in job descriptions).
• Include both hard skills (e.g., accounting, programming, data analysis) and soft skills (e.g., leadership, teamwork, communication).
• Use the exact keywords recruiters might search for if they’re looking for “content writing,” don’t just put “creative writing.”
• Don’t overstuff keywords to keep it natural and relevant.

4. Activity & Responsiveness

Managers prefer candidates that communicate properly and respond clearly. This is shown by how often you update your profile and how you respond to their messages. Even a single response can make or break your career.

Tips:

• Log in to your Merojob account frequently this helps to keep your profile active.
• Apply when you see matching jobs.
• Respond quickly to employers messages and interview requests.
• Turn on job alerts so that you always know about appropriate opportunities.

5. Professional Presentation

A professional photo increases your profile view by 40%. Not only is it essential to have a professional photo but it is equally important to use a professional language with consistent tone. A professional profile makes it easier for hiring managers to assess your application.

Tips:

• Write in clear, error-free language. Avoid spelling mistakes or grammatical errors.
• Use bullet points for responsibilities and achievements so they’re easy to scan.
• Avoid slang or overly casual language.
• Keep your tone confident and be factual about your achievements.

6. Matching Job Preferences

Applying blindly for any position that is available creates a bad impression on hiring managers. It can block your path to potential opportunities right now and in the future. Make sure you set your preference properly to ensure you are not doing so. Merojob allows you to set details like job preferences, location, and expected salary range which helps recruiters q determine if you’re a good fit for the vacancy.

Tips:

• Set realistic preferences based on your skills and experience.
• Include industries and job roles you’re genuinely interested in.
• Keep your location and availability updated especially if you’re open to remote work.
• Avoid leaving this section blank, as it can make you less searchable.

Your profile gives insight to the hiring managers regarding your personality. So make sure your profile is professional and highlights your skills along with your achievements.