4 Tips to Help Get Noticed in Today's Job Market Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again. × Search search POPULAR SEARCHES SUGGESTED LINKS Join AARP for just $9 per year when you sign up for a 5-year term. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. Leaving AARP.org Website You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

4 Insider Tips to Get Noticed and Hired in Today s Job Market

Resume and cover letter are no longer enough survey of employers finds

Getty Images Getting the attention of recruiters and hiring managers often can be the hardest part of getting the job you want. That can be particularly true for older job seekers, who might not be making use of newer job-search strategies that help younger candidates shine. But there are a few simple steps you can take to up your chances of getting noticed. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. Accountemps, a staffing service owned by Robert Half, recently surveyed more than 2,400 senior managers at businesses in 28 major U.S. cities. The poll identified a handful of techniques that job seekers can use to catch an employer's eye:

1 Use social media to connect with people in the company

One of the best ways you can get a sense of what it's like to work for an employer is to chat with people on the inside. That approach also might help the hiring manager notice you. According to the survey, 49 percent of senior managers said they are most impressed by candidates whose social network profiles show connections with people who already work at the company. Use social websites such as LinkedIn and Facebook to find out whether you know anyone who works at the companies you are interested in. It's also smart to take a few moments to make sure your is as sharp as possible.

2 Write compelling cover letters

Even in the age of emails and texts, a well-written cover letter is still a great opportunity to tell employers why you are the right person for the job. The survey found that 58 percent of the respondents said cover letters were very helpful when they looked at candidates. Use your cover letter to make your “.” Or you might consider getting help with your cover letters (and resume) from a . Flowers & Gifts 25% off sitewide and 30% off select items See more Flowers & Gifts offers >

3 Don t get too colorful

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