If you're on the hunt for a new job, then it's important to set yourself apart from other job applicants.

Standing out among the crowd in a positive way will help put you in the recruitment spotlight.

Here are just a few ways you can stay ahead of the competition when applying for a new job:

Fine-Tune Your Résumé

Many employers base the majority of their hiring decisions on the applicant's résumé.

Sure, you may be more than qualified for the job, but if your résumé doesn't shine, you might not even make it to the interview stage.

That's why it's so important to polish and fine-tune your résumé so that is stands out. Including your skills and past work experience is a must, but don't be afraid to also include your interests, accolades, and other talents as well.

In addition, make sure your résumé is completely up to date and free of typos and errors.

An updated, cohesive, error-free résumé will prove to employers that you are professional, which is the first step in landing a coveted interview.

Prepare for the Interview

Once you get your foot in the door with your résumé, you then need to prepare for the interview process.

As the following article looks at, whether you're wondering how to get a job in a salon or at a corporate office, preparation is key to a successful interview.

You can start by researching everything there is to know about the job you're applying to. Knowing the ins and outs of your future career will definitely impress your future employers.

It's also important to know your strengths and what assets you can bring to the job at hand.

Although you probably think you know a lot about yourself, there might be some curve balls thrown your way.

By rehearsing what say in terms of your experience, background, and expertise, you'll be able to answer questions quickly and accurately.

Have Your References on Standby

Interviews are usually followed up with calls to your references, so make sure they're on standby. The last thing you want is for your references to be unprepared, or worse, ignore a phone call from your future employer.

You never want to train your references to represent you in a certain way, but do make sure they know enough about your work history to speak on your behalf.

With that said, make sure all of your reference phone numbers are up to date on your résumé.

Be Willing to Start at the Bottom

Landing the ideal job is a great feeling, but sometimes employers want you to learn the ropes before taking on a more substantial position.

So, don't walk away from a job just because you're starting at the bottom.

If you're willing to work hard, you'll climb the ranks quickly.

Follow Up

If it's been a few days since the interview and you haven't heard anything, it's perfectly fine to send a follow up email. Your follow up should simply thank the employer for their time.

Don't ask specifically about the job and don't send multiple follow ups. One follow up is enough to put you back on the employer's radar.

When you're ready to stand out among the job-hunting masses, keep the tips above in mind.

Photo credit: BigStockPhoto.com

About the Author: Adam Groff is a freelance writer and creator of content. He writes on a variety of topics including job recruiting and employment.