Landing your dream job in the heavy vehicle, machinery, or equipment industries takes more than a perfectly polished resume. Employers are looking for candidates who go the extra mile and truly demonstrate their value. Here are some key strategies to help you stand out from the crowd.
Tailor your approach
Generic applications rarely get noticed, so take the time to carefully research each company and role you’re applying for. Highlight specific skills from your resume, like diagnostic experience on diesel engines, hydraulic system knowledge, or even sales experience with agricultural machinery. Your cover letter is prime real estate to show you understand the company’s specific needs and how you can contribute to them.
Optimise your LinkedIn profile
Your LinkedIn acts as your digital resume and is one of the major ways that recruiters find talent. Make sure your profile is up to date, includes a professional headshot, and uses relevant keywords for your industry (e.g., “diesel technician,” “earthmoving equipment,” “truck sales”). Think of it as a mini portfolio!
Networking – it's not just who you know
Networking is about building relationships, not just collecting contacts. Attend relevant industry events like trade shows or field days, connect with professionals online, and reach out to people in your desired field. Be genuine, ask thoughtful questions about their experience with specific equipment or challenges in the industry, and you might uncover hidden opportunities.
Show, don't just tell
Actions speak louder than words. If you have relevant side projects (e.g., restoring old machinery), volunteer work, or certifications, include them! This demonstrates your initiative and genuine passion for the field. Creating a simple website or online portfolio lets you directly showcase your work, especially for technical or sales roles.
Follow up (thoughtfully)
After an interview, a thank-you note goes a long way – but you can do one better. Reference something specific discussed in the interview to show you were paying attention (e.g. a question about the company’s expansion into construction equipment). Even if you don’t get the job, this will leave a positive impression that could open doors in the future.
Persistence pays off
The job search in specialised fields like ours can take time, so don’t get too disheartened by rejections. Use each experience as a learning opportunity to fine tune your application materials. Stay persistent, keep expanding your network, and the right fit will come!
Additional tips:
- Proofread meticulously: Typos and errors signal a lack of attention to detail.
- Get creative: Consider a short video introduction highlighting your work on a specific machine, if the company culture allows it.
- Be yourself: Let your personality and passion for trucks, machinery, or equipment shine through!
Remember, the best candidate isn’t always the most qualified on paper. It’s about demonstrating your value, initiative, and genuine interest in the specific position and company.
Teamrecruit is Australia’s most established recruitment agency specialising in truck, earthmoving and agricultural machinery dealerships in Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific and Southeast Asia. Find out more about Teamrecruit and how we support employers and candidates in the dealership industry.
