If you’re looking to make a change professionally, you need to come to terms with certain job search truths to be successful. Here are 5 job search myths exposed to make the most out of the process.
I should apply to any job that seems interesting…You never know.
It’s great to be optimistic. However, in order to conduct a successful job search, you need to be realistic as well. Throwing darts at the wall to see where they land is a good strategy for well…darts. It’s not the best approach when looking for your new place of employment. If you’re not focused in your efforts, you’re ultimately wasting your time. Be really honest with yourself about what you’re looking for in your next role, what positions you’d realistically be a good fit for and target those.
I’ve submitted my resume to the job posting. That’s all I can do.
It’d be nice to think that there’s someone on the other end of that submit button eagerly waiting to read the thousandth application to come in that day. The truth is, however, most companies don’t have enough manpower to give every application the full attention it deserves. That’s where technology comes in, combing through each resume, identifying keywords and presenting only the best matches to hiring managers. Tailoring your resume to each job description is a start, but online submissions are just one way to conduct your search, which brings me to point number 3.
I can’t reach out to the hiring manager. The post specifically said not to contact the company.
Ok…you’re a rule follower. Bravo. But do you really think a company is in a position to turn their nose up at a solid candidate for any reason other than not passing a background check? Companies lose money when roles remain open. It’s in everyone’s best interest to get the job filled with the right person as soon as possible. Because hiring managers are rarely the ones actually going through application submissions, reaching out to them offers an opportunity to stand out amongst a sea of candidates. Do so in a professional manner via their LinkedIn or company email address. Feel free to be creative in your approach if it makes sense. Make sure your communication is enticing enough that they want to open your cover letter and resume.
Recruiters are a waste of time and will try to place you anywhere they can to get paid.
Alright, this is true of some recruiters. Just like there are good and bad doctors, there are really good and bad recruiters out there too. Align yourself with a trusted organization and someone you feel comfortable with. You may have to meet with a few until you find the one that gets you and really wants to help you meet your professional goals. Many companies put out job postings, but still use recruiters to find candidates. Always opt to be submitted to a job by a recruiter vs submitting yourself through an online submission process. Why? Because while a computer program may or may not pull your resume up as a match, a recruiter actually talks to the client. Not only do they talk to the client, they can help guide the client and serve as an advocate for you as a candidate.
The more responsibilities on my resume, the more attractive I am as a candidate.
A laundry list of responsibilities doesn’t improve your resume, as specialization is key to your success. Your resume should mirror the job description and clearly show what you’re presenting yourself as. The person looking at your resume should have no doubts about what you do and even more importantly, what you want to do. You may be a great project manager, but if the role doesn’t require these skills, a slew of related responsibilities will only detract from your applicable capabilities.
