Competency #20 I Can Generate One Job Interview for Every 10 Job Leads I Get

Do you send out resumes and cover letters or apply for jobs online and never get a response, let alone an interview?  Have you wondered why?

Typically, there are at least one or more of the following factors at play:

1.  Applying blindly- that is, not knowing someone who works there or can connect you to someone who does, and even better, has some control over whether you’ll get a job interview. There’s no secret formula, here, folks.  The bottom line is this:  your path to a job interview is through people. The hidden job market is alive and well. People who find job leads through people they know are better positioned to obtain job interviews.  Most employers find their talent on LinkedIn, and employers will find you only if your LinkedIn profile is complete.  Don’t know what complete means?  Find out.

2.  Unfocused, untargeted, incomplete, sloppy, or inconsistent written communications: all documents and messages you create, whether it’s your resume/cover letter, LinkedIn profile, executive summary, or email, must be targeted and consistent. If your resume suggests you have a different goal or different skills sets than your LinkedIn summary, employers will avoid you.

3.  Mismatched skill sets or keywords. Are you applying for positions you are actually qualified for? Have you reviewed the job description for keywords, and have you used these words throughout your written communication?

4.  Lack of follow-up.  While many people think that following up is too invasive, the reality is that employers take note of applicants who follow-up after they’ve applied.  It shows interest in a era where the majority of people who apply never follow-up. “The squeaky wheel gets the grease.” 

A final reminder:  In case you haven't created an answer to the question, "why should I hire you?"do so PRIOR to seeking job leads.  You'll eventually need to explain what makes you the perfect person for the job.