Are you looking for your dream job in the consumer packaged goods industry to start off your year? Hunter & Michaels offers a comprehensive guide to finding the right career in the new year. We can help you find your dream job in the CPG industry, regardless of where you are in your career.
Imagine waking up every day and loving what you do. Our goal at Hunter & Michaels is to help people find their dream job and love their work. With our resources and expertise, we can make that happen for you. Learn more about how we can help you find your dream job!
Tips for finding a job in the CPG industry
Whether you’re a recent graduate eager for your first role within the CPG industry or an experienced professional seeking fresh new opportunities within this ever-growing sector, finding a job in this competitive market can be difficult. So if you’re hoping to land that perfect CPG position that perfectly aligns with your career goals, here are five essential tips to help you get started on your journey:
Network
Connecting with people in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry is one of the best ways to find a job. Attend industry events, trade shows, and conferences. Get to know people who work in the companies you’re interested in and ask for introductions to others who might be able to help you.
Check Company Websites
Another great way to find a job in the CPG industry is to check company websites. Many companies post job openings on their websites, so it’s a good idea to check them regularly. You can also sign up for job alerts on company websites to notify you when new jobs are posted.
Reach Out to Recruiters
Many recruiters specialize in placing candidates in jobs in the CPG industry. These recruiters can be an excellent resource for finding open positions and getting your foot in the door at companies you’re interested in. You can find recruiters by searching online or attending industry events.
Be Persistent
It’s essential to be persistent when searching for a job in the CPG industry. The competition for jobs can be fierce, so it’s crucial to stand out from the crowd. Keep networking, contacting contacts, and applying for jobs even if you don’t hear anything back. The perfect opportunity could be right around the corner.
Make your resume stand out to CPG employers
Do you dream of highlighting your qualifications and experience on a resume that will leave recruiters wanting more? While simply following traditional resume writing rules might be enough to get an employer’s attention, why not take it one step further so that your application stands out from the rest? Here’s how to write a CPG letter and resume that puts yours ahead of all others:
1. Use Keywords
When looking through resumes, employers often use keywords to search for specific skills and qualifications. As such, it is vital to use keywords throughout your resume that are relevant to the CPG industry. Some examples of CPG-related keywords include “brand management,” “consumer insights,” and “trade marketing.”
2. Highlight Your Achievements
You can demonstrate your value to employers when they see a list of your accomplishments. As such, it is essential to highlight your most impressive achievements in your resume. If you have any awards or recognitions related to the CPG industry, be sure to mention them as well.
3. Use Quantifiable Data
Employers often want to see concrete evidence of your skills and abilities. As such, it is helpful to use quantifiable data whenever possible in your resume. For example, if you have experience managing a team of people, you could mention the size of the team you managed and the results you achieved.
4. Focus on Your Skills
While your work experience is essential, employers will also be interested in your skillset. Be sure to highlight skills relevant to the CPG industry, such as marketing research or product development. If you have any unique skills that could benefit a CPG company, be sure to mention them.
5. Tailor Your Resume
This means customizing your resume to highlight the skills and qualifications most relevant to the company you are applying to. Taking the time to tailor your resume will show employers that you are serious about getting the job and that you have the skills they are looking for.
Common interview questions asked by CPG companies
Suppose you’ve already landed an interview with a top CPG company, but now comes the daunting task of preparing for the questions you’ll be asked. To help ease your nerves, we’re here to provide insight into some of the most common interview questions asked and possible answers that could make or break your chance of getting hired:
1. What experience do you have working with CPG products?
Sample answer:
“I have worked with CPG products for the past 5 years in my current role as a sales representative. In this role, I manage relationships with existing clients and develop new business opportunities. I deeply understand the CPG industry and the channels through which CPG products are sold.”
2. What is the most important aspect of a successful CPG business?
Sample answer:
“The most important aspect of a successful CPG business is having a strong understanding of your target market and knowing how to reach them effectively. It is also important to have a robust distribution network to make your products available to consumers when they want them.”
3. What challenges do you see in the CPG industry currently?
Sample answer:
“One of the biggest challenges facing the CPG industry is the increasing consolidation of retail outlets. This consolidation makes it more difficult for small and mid-sized CPG companies to get their products onto store shelves. Another challenge facing the industry is the growing popularity of online grocery shopping, which has made it easier for consumers to purchase groceries without ever leaving their homes.”
We know the industry inside out
No matter your goals for next year, we hope this guide provides you with the inspiration and tools you need to score your dream CPG job. If you don’t know where to begin, remember that our industry-leading recruitment team is always here to help. We know the ins and outs of the CPG world and can connect you with opportunities that fit your skill set and career aspirations perfectly. So what are you waiting for? Start your journey today. Contact us today to learn more!
