Job hunting is notoriously competitive, to the point where you can do everything right and still lose out on an opportunity. It’s best not to take these rejections to heart; many influences outside your control could occur. For example, you might have been interviewed as a formality when the hiring managers were always going to prefer someone connected to the business already. Now, that’s not to encourage conspiratorial thinking, as it’s always good to put your best foot forward and show the value you demonstrate before anything else.
If you find yourself failing to get a job interview, here are five things to reflect on when searching for your new position.
The Cover Letter Does Matter
Cover letters can be a real annoyance. Having to provide a written introduction about yourself and how you’d be a good fit at the company isn’t always easy to do. This is especially so when you must tailor a new cover letter for each job application you submit. Get the formula down, and be sure to keep it simple, direct, and brief. If you can, you’ll allow your resume to speak for itself. Moreover, avoid AI because often, these are written with a repeated formula that others are using.
Follow Up After Submitting Your Application
There’s nothing wrong with following up after applying; so many job seekers don’t do this. If it’s been a few days without a response, you can always send a message politely reconfirming your intent to interview for the position and emphasizing how you’d be a good fit. That kind of tenacity is never a bad idea and could potentially lead to a worthwhile outcome. A healthy follow-up can also help you have a little more peace of mind, knowing you did everything you could.
Refine Your Resume
It might be that your resume is not as appealing or pointed as it could be. If your resume includes a great deal of irrelevant information, then the recruiter might throw it out. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing job but worked as a fry cook ten years ago, it might not be worth including that in your resume. As a Career Coach, I have reviewed many resumes filled with irrelevant information that hiring managers would not want to see.
Also, when it comes to resumes, don’t feel tied to a locked-off formula. A two page resume is still considered acceptable in most cases. Some job applications requiring longer formats include government positions or positions within a university or college. In either case, ensure the resume is formatted well and reflects all your relevant experience.
Look at Your Social Media
Did you know some hiring managers will look at an applicant’s social media platforms before scheduling interviews? Yes, it’s true! Your social media can be the deciding factor as to whether you get interviewed or not. See if your profiles and posts represent who you are and align with the company’s values.
Work with a Career Coach
If you find yourself continuing down the path of failing to land a job interview, consider working with a career coach. A career coach can help you identify why you are not getting interviews. They can also review your resume, provide tips to improve it and assist you with preparing and practicing once an interview is scheduled. If you want to learn more about how a career coach can help you, contact me at https://carolyn360.com.
Trying to get a job interview can be overwhelming. But if you really want to find a job, don’t give up! Don’t overthink things; remain steadfast about trying and trying again, and the right opportunity will come your way. With this advice, you can land a job interview in no time. Here’s to Your success!
Carolyn R. Owens has over 25 years of proven experience and serves as a Career Strategist, Leadership, and Mentor Coach. She is the Chairwoman and CEO of Infinity Coaching, Inc., where they help you up-level your skills so you can up-level your income. Infinity Coaching, Inc. provides one-on-one and group coaching, organizational training, and personality assessments. Carolyn is certified to give the Energy Leadership Index and Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessments. You can learn more about assessments and other products and services at https://infinitycoaching.net.
