Competition is fierce. With layoffs and economic uncertainty making headlines, the number of job applicants has surged, making it more challenging to stand out. While it’s true that finding a job is difficult right now, it’s important to understand the employer’s perspective to maximize your chances of success.

As an employer who runs agencies and consults for companies in hiring positions, I’ve been on both sides of the job search. Here’s a candid look at how hiring decisions are made, and what you can do to stand out in a crowded sea of applicants.

@joyyouellace 2 things you can do to make a potential employer notice you. #findajob #jobcoaching #resume #jobhunting ♬ origineel geluid - no sound

The Reality of the Job Application Process

Let’s say I post a job opening for a senior marketer at my agency. Within the first day, I’ll likely receive between 300 and 400 applications, and by day two, that number may rise to 700 or more. It’s simply not feasible for me—or any hiring manager or HR team—to thoroughly review every single one of those applications.

Given the volume, hiring teams rely on early indicators to decide whether an applicant moves forward in the process. It’s not always fair, but the reality is that hiring managers often have to make quick judgments based on superficial factors. So, what are the key elements that will help you stand out in this early round of skimming?

1. Your Profile Picture: The First Impression

While it might not seem fair, your profile picture is often the first thing a hiring manager sees, especially if you’re applying through platforms like LinkedIn or Indeed. This visual element can influence how professional and serious you appear to the employer.

In a sea of applications, if your profile picture is a casual selfie taken in your car or an unprofessional snapshot, it can hurt your chances. For senior-level positions, this can send the wrong message—that you’re not taking the application seriously or may not align with the professionalism required for the role.

Here’s the good news: your profile picture doesn’t have to be a stiff corporate headshot. In fact, a well-composed, clear photo that conveys your personality can work just as effectively. The goal is to present yourself in a way that’s consistent with the role you’re applying for.

If you’re aiming for a marketing position, for example, show a bit of creativity while maintaining professionalism. If you’re a freelancer or creative, your profile picture should reflect your personal brand in an authentic way. Whatever you choose, make sure your photo helps you put your best foot forward, as this is often the first impression a potential employer has of you.

2. The Preview Copy: Your Chance to Stand Out

The second key element in the hiring process is the preview text that accompanies your application. When skimming through hundreds of resumes, most hiring systems like LinkedIn or Indeed will display the first few lines of your profile or message.

This preview copy is critical because it’s your first opportunity to grab the hiring manager’s attention. Many candidates make the mistake of starting with generic phrases like “Dear Hiring Manager” or a dry list of qualifications, which does nothing to stand out. With so many applications to sift through, you need to make the first few words count.

Here’s what to avoid and what to focus on:

• Avoid Generic Openers: Starting with “Dear Hiring Manager” or something similarly formal wastes valuable space. Hiring managers are skimming quickly, and they’re looking for something that stands out—not the same old introduction.

• Be Specific and Unique: Use those first few words to capture the reader’s interest. Think about the role you’re applying for and what sets you apart. Maybe it’s a unique skill, a specific accomplishment, or a striking statement about your career journey. For instance, instead of “I have 10 years of experience in marketing,” you could say, “I’ve helped companies increase ROI by 30% with data-driven strategies.”

• Don’t Be Gimmicky: While you want to stand out, avoid being too cutesy or overly casual. The goal is to strike a balance between professionalism and personality. Your preview copy should give a clear sense of who you are and why you’re a strong fit for the role without resorting to gimmicks.

3. Why These Small Details Matter

You might be thinking: why do things like profile pictures and preview text matter so much when I have all the right skills and experience? The answer is simple: first impressions count, especially when hiring managers are reviewing hundreds of applications.

These small details—your profile picture and the first few lines of your preview copy—are your chance to make a strong initial impression. They can help you rise above the noise and increase the likelihood that a hiring manager will take the time to read your full resume and consider you for the role.

Tips for Standing Out in a Crowded Job Market

Now that you understand the importance of these early indicators, here are a few actionable tips to help you stand out from the competition:

1. Update Your Profile Picture

Invest in a professional photo that reflects the image you want to present. While it doesn’t have to be a formal corporate headshot, it should be clear, well-composed, and in line with the type of job you’re applying for. Avoid casual selfies or photos that seem too relaxed for the position you’re seeking.

2. Craft Compelling Preview Text

Think carefully about the first few words a hiring manager will see when they glance at your application. Highlight something unique about your skills, experience, or approach that sets you apart from other candidates. Avoid generic phrases, and make sure those first lines are both professional and engaging.

3. Customize Your Applications

Tailor your applications to each job you apply for. Hiring managers can tell when someone has copy-pasted a generic resume or message. Take the time to customize your cover letter, resume, and preview text for the specific role, showing that you’ve researched the company and understand what they’re looking for.

4. Keep It Professional but Personal

While you want to maintain a professional tone, don’t be afraid to let a bit of your personality shine through. Hiring managers aren’t just looking for someone with the right qualifications—they’re also looking for someone who will be a good fit for the team and company culture.

Understand the Employer’s Perspective

When you’re job hunting, it’s easy to get caught up in your own perspective, trying to stand out in a sea of applicants. But it’s important to remember that hiring managers are facing their own challenge: finding the right candidate among hundreds of resumes.

By focusing on the early indicators that employers use to make quick decisions—your profile picture and preview copy—you can increase your chances of standing out and moving to the next stage of the hiring process. While it may seem unfair that these small details carry so much weight, understanding the employer’s perspective can help you position yourself more effectively and, ultimately, land the job you want.