Break the Mold: 7 Job Search Myths You Need to Leave Behind Now!
7 Job Search Norms You Should Disregard Immediately
These traditional beliefs could be hindering your progress in your job search.
Finding ways to differentiate yourself and leave a lasting impression can be crucial in the quest for employment. Yet, sometimes, the very “norms” intended to facilitate this process can impede your progress.
Career and leadership advisor Kathy Caprino, the author of The Most Powerful You: 7 Bravery-Boosting Paths to Career Bliss, frequently encounters such misleading information from her clients. “I’m unsure of its origins,” she remarks. “However, we must embrace courage, strength, and confidence,” Caprino emphasizes that by being bolder in our job search endeavors, we can feel more inclined to dismiss ineffective conventional wisdom and concentrate on forging our paths, which may lead us to our goals more swiftly.
To enhance your effectiveness in securing your next position, disregard this outdated and occasionally incorrect guidance:
RELY ON JOB BOARDS TO FIND OPENINGS
While it is true that job boards are full of listings, they account for approximately 50% of applications submitted to companies. Yet, fewer than 1% of applicants secure the position, as noted in the 2019 Jobvite Recruiting Benchmark Report. Often, by the time job postings go live, organizations may already have strong candidates in mind or have decided on their next hire, according to career coach Terry McDougall, author of Winning the Game of Work: Career Happiness and Success on Your Terms.
As a hiring manager, she would disseminate information about an opening within her network before it was officially posted. “In a large corporation, the job posting process typically took at least two to three weeks. By then, the person who left was already gone, so I needed to fill the vacancy quickly,” she explains. Therefore, it’s wiser to concentrate on your connections rather than endlessly browsing job boards.
The team at Hatchit, an IT recruiting agency, notes that businesses and recruiters are increasingly employing innovative sourcing strategies and sharing vacancies on subreddits, Slack channels, and specialized sites to attract more specific candidates.
CONTACT EVERYONE IN YOUR NETWORK
Although it might seem essential to broadcast your job search widely, the truth is that not everyone can assist you equally. It’s essential to be strategic about whom you contact within your network, particularly at the outset, advises Neil Burton, executive director of Clemson University’s Center for Career and Professional Development. “Every action taken during your job search should be purposeful. There must be a rationale behind it, and you should be aware of that reason,” he explains.
Consider approaching individuals who recognize your professional capabilities and are familiar with your strengths. By targeting a select portion of your network instead of diluting your efforts, you will likely achieve better outcomes while forming more significant connections. Authenticity in networking is vital, according to Burton.
MAKE SURE YOU’RE ELIGIBLE
In today’s competitive job market, networking is crucial in advancing your career. Leveraging platforms like LinkedIn can significantly enhance your visibility and connect you with industry professionals. By actively engaging in discussions, sharing your expertise, and following industry leaders, you can create valuable relationships that may lead to job opportunities and collaborations. Emphasizing the power of networking can transform your career trajectory and open previously unseen doors.
A 2019 Monster survey revealed that recruiters adjust their standards to embrace candidates with most or some of the requisite skills for the position. Many individuals—particularly women—talk themselves out of applying for a job due to perceived inadequacies in their qualifications, Caprino observes. While it is unwise to deceive or inflate your skills, she encourages you to apply if you can convincingly present your case for the role. “I and countless others I’ve known have been hired without holding all the qualifications because how we engage with people compels the hiring manager to think, ‘I need you on my team,’” she states.
ADAPT TO FIT IN WITH THE COMPANY CULTURE
Recruiters often seek candidates who align with the company’s “culture fit.” Attempting to interpret and replicate this can backfire, according to Caprino. If you approach your interviews overly reserved and do not present your authentic self, you risk setting yourself up for disappointment. While remaining professional and respectful is essential, allowing your individuality to shine through can be beneficial. “If you suppress your true self and secure the job, you will not be able to be yourself in that environment genuinely,” she cautions. Be open about your interests and what you seek from the role.
DISREGARD COVER LETTERS
Cover letters often receive minimal attention, and the necessity of including one is frequently disputed. However, as Fast Company recently highlighted, research from ResumeLab shows that a compelling cover letter can lead to an interview even when your résumé falls short. Therefore, create a concise, impactful introduction to accompany your résumé.
RESUME LAYOUT IS UNIMPORTANT
“While certain résumé conventions remain constant, many aspects have evolved to meet the ongoing demands of hiring professionals and align with contemporary recruitment tools and methodologies,” states Amanda Augustine, career expert at TopResume. Constructing your résumé to be compatible with applicant tracking systems is crucial. This means employing clear text and a straightforward layout with delineated sections and adequate white space.
A “hybrid” or combination résumé format is most effective, as it contains narrative elements that provide insights into the candidate. Research from TopResume has shown that résumés featuring a left-hand rail or column have a more modern appearance that grabs recruiters’ attention and can successfully navigate the ATS. In contrast, those with a right-hand rail often do not. Phrases such as “references available upon request” at the end of a résumé, using two spaces following each period, or including a stated objective can make your résumé appear outdated, she adds.
WAIT FOR THE IDEAL JOB
In job searching, much like other endeavors, perfection can hinder progress. According to Burton, by continuously waiting for the ideal position, particularly in the current job market, you risk missing valuable opportunities for learning and growth. “Rather than searching for the flawless job, approach it as a means to cover your expenses and develop the experience necessary to advance your career,” he recommends. “Achieving the perfect job right out of college is unrealistic.”
Instead, identify the skills you need to cultivate to reach your ideal job and pursue positions that will help you gain those abilities. This approach will likely accelerate your journey toward your “dream job” more effectively than waiting for an elusive opportunity.
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