In today’s competitive job market, traditional resumes and cover letters are no longer enough to stand out. While they are important tools in showcasing your experience and qualifications, showing what you can do rather than just telling employers about it can make a world of difference.

A recent example illustrates this perfectly: I hired someone whose resume I never even saw. How did that happen? It all started with a single comment on LinkedIn.

The Power of Engagement

The individual in question didn’t simply list their skills on a resume or wait for the perfect job to land in their lap. Instead, they actively engaged in conversations about the industry, providing thoughtful insights and showcasing their expertise. One day, I came across a post on LinkedIn about a topic I deeply cared about. This person made a comment that caught my attention. It wasn’t just a generic response — it was insightful, well-informed, and demonstrated that they not only knew the subject but were genuinely passionate about it.

This led me to reach out and connect with them. We began a conversation, and within two weeks, I offered them a job. The key? They showed their knowledge and interest in a meaningful, real-world context, without needing to send a resume.

Why Showing Matters

In a sea of job seekers, simply telling hiring managers about your skills and experience can often get lost in the noise. But when you show your abilities, you give potential employers a clearer picture of your strengths and how you apply them. Here are a few reasons why showing is so much more effective than telling:

1. It Demonstrates Passion

When you take the time to engage with topics related to your field, whether through blog posts, social media, or contributions to industry discussions, you demonstrate passion for your work. Employers want candidates who are not just skilled but also enthusiastic about their roles.

2. It Provides Proof of Skills

Anyone can list skills on a resume, but when you can provide tangible examples—whether through portfolio pieces, thoughtful LinkedIn comments, or contributions to projects—it serves as proof of your abilities. It shows that you can actually do what you claim.

3. It Shows Initiative

Going beyond the resume to showcase your expertise demonstrates initiative. It signals to employers that you’re proactive, resourceful, and willing to go the extra mile—qualities that every company values.

4. It Sets You Apart

Most candidates submit a resume and a cover letter and wait. But by showing your abilities in a practical, visible way, you instantly differentiate yourself from others. This creates a lasting impression on hiring managers who may otherwise forget your name among dozens of others.

How to Show Your Skills

Now that you understand the importance of showing your skills rather than just telling, how can you apply this principle to your own job search? Here are a few actionable ways to demonstrate your value to potential employers:

1. Engage on Professional Platforms

Just like the example from my experience, commenting thoughtfully on LinkedIn posts, sharing industry-relevant articles, or even starting your own discussions can help you showcase your expertise to a larger audience. It’s not about being everywhere but about making meaningful contributions.

2. Build a Personal Brand

Create a personal blog or website where you can share your knowledge and insights on topics related to your field. Whether it’s showcasing past projects, writing about industry trends, or detailing your problem-solving process, it’s a great way to provide employers with concrete examples of your work.

3. Contribute to Open-Source Projects

For those in tech or creative fields, contributing to open-source projects or collaborating on creative projects can be a powerful way to show off your skills. These contributions act as a portfolio that hiring managers can see for themselves.

4. Network Creatively

Don’t limit your networking to in-person events or job boards. Use social media to connect with professionals in your industry, comment on relevant posts, and share your own insights. You never know who might be watching and who could be your next employer.

Work with the Top Recruiting Firm in Houston

If you’re looking for more ways to showcase your skills and stand out in today’s job market, Murray Resources is here to help. Our team of experienced recruiters can help you position yourself as a top candidate and connect you with exciting new opportunities.

Take a look at our current Job Openings or Contact Us today to get started on your job search!