How Going Above and Beyond Can Help You Stand Out in the Job Market
In today’s competitive job market, standing out is more important than ever. Jennifer Dulski, an experienced leader who has worked in tech and founded her own company, Rising Team, shared her insights into what makes certain job applicants stand out—especially when it comes to going the extra mile with applications.
In June 2024, Dulski posted a job opening for a Chief of Staff at her company. The listing quickly garnered more than 800 applications, and as she and her team reviewed them, three stood out significantly. These applicants went beyond the standard resume submission, attaching additional materials that caught Dulski’s attention. One applicant included a detailed slide deck, another submitted a video with slides, and a third created a “user manual” that demonstrated a deep understanding of Rising Team’s work.
“It was clear these applicants had done their research, and the extra effort made them stand out immediately,” Dulski said. “They didn’t just apply—they made it clear they were invested in the role.”
In a job market where employers are inundated with hundreds of applications for each position, it’s important to give your application an edge. As Dulski mentioned, the job market has shifted, with fewer job openings and a slow pace of hiring, making it all the more necessary to stand out from the competition.
The Importance of Going Above and Beyond
When it comes to your application, the basics still matter—having a well-tailored resume and a strong LinkedIn profile are non-negotiable. However, it’s the effort to go above and beyond that can set you apart. Dulski explained that among the applicants for the Chief of Staff role, many had impressive qualifications but hadn’t done anything extra to demonstrate their commitment to the role. In contrast, the three applicants who went above and beyond by including additional materials showed a genuine effort and attention to detail, which made them stand out from the rest.
Dulski highlighted that doing extra work doesn’t necessarily mean you need to have direct experience for every job requirement. The candidate she ultimately hired hadn’t been a Chief of Staff before, but their effort to demonstrate their skills and research into the company made them the right choice.
“Great talent will still get jobs, even in the hardest of job markets,” Dulski said. “It’s all about showing you’re willing to do the extra work and make yourself stand out.”
Navigating a Harder Job Market
The job market has been particularly tough recently, with job postings declining by 3.5 percentage points in 2025 alone. Cory Stahle, an economist at the Indeed Hiring Lab, pointed out that it’s become a harder labor market for those seeking jobs. With fewer job openings available, applicants must put extra effort into making sure their application stands out.
One strategy Dulski recommends, especially if you don’t have a broad professional network, is making your application as compelling as possible. Cold outreach and networking within the company can be a great way to get a foot in the door, but for those without direct connections, an impressive application can compensate for that lack of an “in.”
“Making yourself stand out through creativity and extra effort is accessible to everyone, regardless of your connections or background,” Dulski explained. “It’s about showing you’re passionate, committed, and proactive.”
The Basics Still Count
Even when adding that personal touch to your application, the foundation matters. Executive coach Susan Peppercorn emphasized that a strong résumé and LinkedIn profile are essential. These platforms are often the first place hiring managers will check, and it’s important to clearly communicate your strengths and what makes you unique.
Peppercorn encourages job seekers to ask themselves, “What makes you unique and compelling?” and ensure this is reflected in your application and profile.
While a great application might not guarantee you a job, it’s the best way to ensure you don’t get lost in the shuffle. Dulski’s experience shows that a thoughtful, creative approach to job applications can help you get noticed—even if you don’t check every box on the job description.
As the job market continues to evolve, job seekers must adapt by making their applications as engaging and compelling as possible. Whether it’s adding a creative touch, reaching out with insightful questions, or showcasing your personality, going the extra mile could make all the difference in landing your next opportunity.