It’s frustrating. A lot of work goes into your job search – networking, creating an impactful resume, and creating compelling cover letters. If you aren’t landing job interviews, discouragement and frustration quickly grows. You’re not alone. According to Business Insider, as many as one-third of job applicants never hear back from companies they have applied to.
Increase your chances of securing job interviews by determining if you’re making these fatal mistakes. Are you:
Applying to the black hole? Don’t give in to lazy job-search methods. While wading through job postings can be demanding, it pays to go the extra mile to avoid applying to the black hole. What is this “black hole”? It’s that generic HR email address like “contact@JOBS.com” or “jobs@JOBS.com” that receives hundreds of applications. The challenge with the “black hole’’ is your resume can be easily overlooked, and there too your chances of snagging an interview.
Instead, ensure your resume gets into the hands of the movers and shakers who schedule interviews. Forbes suggests job seekers should “figure out who their direct hiring manager is in each of their target organizations, and [then] reach out to that person directly.”
Using the wrong buzz words? Larger organizations in particular rely on digital applicant tracking systems that scan resumes for job relevant keywords. If your resume precisely fits the hiring profile, you’ll likely be called in for an interview. Recruiters rely on this system because it simplifies their lives and quickly culls inexperienced candidates, or candidates who are blanketing the market looking for any job. Business Insider states that “50 percent of job applicants aren’t qualified for the jobs they’re applying to.”
The secret to grabbing recruiters’ attention is to adjust your resume to fit the posting and the needs of the organization. Review the job posting for relevant keywords to include in your resume. Along with creating a keyword-rich resume, your application should also feature your accomplishments, and showcase your successes related to the hiring manager’s needs. For more resume writing tips read: Propel Your Career Forward: 3 Tips for Writing a Professional Resume.
Applying too late? Quickly responding to job postings is one of the best ways to increase your chances of “getting seen.” Many job applicants are passed over – even if they’re a good fit for the role. In a study by TheLadders, it was shown that those that apply within 72 hours of the job posting have a higher chance of getting their resume viewed or landing the interview. One of the best ways to stay informed about new job postings is to leverage your network and set up internet alerts.
Landing a job interview becomes much easier when you know the mistakes to avoid. Go the extra mile and send your resume to the hiring manager, include relevant keywords and accomplishments in your resume, and apply within the first 72 hours of the job being posted. These steps will increase your resume’s chances of getting seen, and help drive a more successful job-search campaign.
Author: Joanne Loberg of JL Careers Inc. is a Certified Executive Coach and Internationally Certified Career Management Professional. She specializes in coaching professional and executive clients and providing career advancement strategies. Copyright JL Careers Inc. All rights reserved.
Wishing you much career success!
Joanne Loberg
Certified Executive Career Coach & Internationally Certified Career Management Professional
JL Careers
Looking for insightful, tailored career coaching or retirement planning? Contact us today to learn how you can fast-track your career and create a life you’ll love.
Wishing you much career success!
Joanne Loberg
Certified Executive Coach & Internationally Certified Career Management Professional
JL Careers Inc
