It's frustrating when you have sent out so many #resumes only to never hear back about the status of your application. Often, employers will not respond, tell you they have chosen someone else, or say you are under or overqualified, etc. The bottom line is you probably won't know why you were not considered. So, of course, you must keep applying. Yes, the process can be time-consuming and feel like a job itself; however, try to make your search intentional and strategic:
ARE YOU QUALIFIED?
Apply to jobs for which you qualify. This seems obvious, but many people respond to job listings hoping one will land the interview. It's tempting but ineffective. When you show your transferable skills, demonstrate you are a quick study and meet the requirements for 'hard skills,' it might be worthwhile to submit an application.
DO YOU REALLY KNOW WHAT YOU WANT TO DO?
Have you thought carefully about the type of job you want and in what industry you prefer to work? It helps to have a complete grasp of your skills and accomplishments and learn how to leverage these to meet the employers' needs. If you are unclear about this, consider #careercoaching to help you clarify your interests. The adage, 'if you don't know where you're going, then you won't get there,' applies here.
REACH OUT AND CONNECT
Rather than relying on job boards and recruiting agencies, you must add #networking to your plan because this is how most people land jobs (only 85% are posted). Everyone you know is part of your network (neighbors, friends, family, etc.). Identify someone in your own or extended network (via LinkedIn) and let them know you are looking for a job. BTW, networking is not asking someone for a job. Your goal is to seek job search advice. Plan to reach out to at least two to three people each week.
ARE YOU 'LINKED-IN?'
If you do not have a profile, create one and ensure it is fully completed. You should include a picture and be at an 'All-Star' level on your dashboard. There is an option to show recruiters you are job searching, so indicate the types of roles you are seeking. This is different than receiving job alerts, similar to Indeed and other job boards, etc. Your profile will differ from your resume because you can use personal pronouns and speak in a narrative to tell your story. Remember, employers often look at your profile before they read your resume.
HOW GOOD IS YOUR RESUME?
Finally, the resume. It is your way to obtain the interview, not the job. Resumes have changed in recent years, so you will need to tailor yours to the job description. Use a single-column format. Avoid online templates because they often cannot be read by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) many employers use to screen resumes. Ensure your formatting/layout uses white space well, is easy to read, and contains no typos. Most importantly, try not to make your responsibilities read like a job description.
Oddly enough, since many people are leaving jobs (the Big Resignation) because they no longer want to work in an office, there will probably be more job openings. However, be realistic and strategic in your search. Set aside dedicated hours each week for job search tasks to help stay on track. And, most importantly, take time out to relax and focus on self-care.
If you need help with your job search, contact me for a free phone consultation.