If you’ve ever applied for dozens of jobs and heard nothing back, you’re not alone.
Most candidates follow the same formula, upload a résumé, hit “Apply,” and wait.
But here’s the hard truth: in today’s market, that approach rarely works.
The candidates who consistently get hired, the top 1%, do things differently. They approach the job search with the same strategy and focus that great companies use to hire.
Let’s unpack what sets them apart and how you can get there too.
1. They Don’t Just Apply — They Position Themselves
Average candidates apply everywhere. Top candidates are selective.
Before hitting “Apply,” they take the time to understand the company’s challenges and tailor their approach around solving them. They read between the lines of a job posting, spotting what’s not written, like communication expectations or company culture.
They position themselves not as someone looking for a job, but as someone ready to create value.
When recruiters read their résumé or LinkedIn summary, they don’t see a list of past roles — they see proof of outcomes, clarity, and direction.
2. They Speak the Language of Results
The top 1% know that “responsible for” doesn’t sell — results do.
Instead of saying “managed a team,” they say “led a 6-person team that reduced project turnaround time by 25%.”
Instead of “worked on client accounts,” they say “retained 95% of clients over 12 months.”
It’s a subtle shift, but it transforms a résumé from a list of tasks into a record of impact. Recruiters notice that immediately.
3. They Build Visibility, Not Just Applications
Great candidates don’t wait to be found, they create visibility.
They optimize their LinkedIn profiles with relevant keywords, share professional insights, and engage with industry discussions. They know hiring managers often check social presence before sending an interview invite — not to judge, but to understand personality and communication style.
They use their digital footprint as proof of credibility, curiosity, and initiative.
4. They Prepare Beyond the Obvious
Most people rehearse interview answers. The top 1% rehearse how they think.
They research the company’s business model, the challenges it faces, and how their role connects to solving them. They ask smart questions that show curiosity and alignment, like:
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“How does success in this position impact your team’s goals?”
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“What challenges do people in this role usually face in the first three months?”
That kind of conversation shifts perception, they stop being “a candidate” and start being seen as “a potential teammate.”
5. They Follow Up Strategically
After interviews, average candidates wait. Top candidates follow up thoughtfully.
A short message thanking the interviewer and briefly reinforcing how they can contribute goes a long way. It’s not about begging for the job, it’s about reinforcing professionalism and communication.
Recruiters remember candidates who close loops clearly and respectfully.
6. They Work with the Right People
Finally, top candidates know the power of partnerships.
They connect with recruiters and staffing firms that understand their market and can help them access opportunities that aren’t public.
Because here’s a fact: around 38% of roles in Canada are filled through networks and agencies — not job boards.
The top 1% don’t just compete in the open market. They build access to the hidden one.
Final Thought
Becoming part of that top 1% isn’t about being perfect.
It’s about being intentional, understanding what companies value, how hiring really works, and how to communicate your strengths in a way that connects.
The difference between being another applicant and being the top choice often comes down to strategy, not luck.
If you want to position yourself like a top candidate in Canada’s job market, we can help.
Let’s make sure your next application stands out for the right reasons, and gets noticed by the right employers.
(844)-929-2340
info@axcesstms.com
www.axcesstms.com