Searching for a job can be a frustrating and demoralizing process, especially when you’ve been at it for weeks or months without any success. If your job search doesn’t seem to be working, don’t get discouraged. There are some common reasons why your job search may be stalling, and strategies you can use to get it back on track.
You’re not targeting the right jobs
One of the most common mistakes people make when job searching is applying for any and every job they find, even if it’s not a great fit for their skills and experience. This scattershot approach rarely leads to interviews and job offers. To be successful, you need to be strategic and targeted in your search.
Carefully review each job posting and only apply to roles that closely match your background and qualifications. Make a list of keywords from the job descriptions of roles you’re interested in pursuing. Use these keywords to fine tune your resume and LinkedIn profile so they contain the terms employers are looking for.
Research the companies you want to work for and tailor your resume and cover letter to show how your background makes you the ideal candidate for each specific role. Taking a targeted approach requires more work upfront, but significantly increases your chances of getting noticed by recruiters and hiring managers.
Your resume needs improvement
Many job seekers greatly underestimate the importance of a well-crafted resume. If your resume is poorly formatted, contains errors, or fails to showcase your skills, qualifications and achievements, it can sabotage your job search.
Set aside time to thoroughly update your resume to reflect your most recent experience and accomplishments. Remove outdated or irrelevant information. Use targeted keywords throughout your resume, but avoid overusing them. Verify there are no typos or formatting inconsistencies.
Review resume samples and templates to help optimize your formatting. Have a few trusted contacts proofread your resume to catch any errors you may have missed. Consider hiring a professional resume writer if you need extra help highlighting your most relevant qualifications.
You’re not leveraging your network
One of the most effective job search strategies is networking with contacts in your industry. According to labor statistics, nearly 70% of new jobs are never publicly advertised, so networking is key to accessing these “hidden” openings.
Start reaching out to former colleagues, supervisors, clients, friends and professional connections. Let them know you’re job searching and ask if they’re aware of any potential openings. Stay in regular touch with your network by phone, email, LinkedIn or meeting for coffee.
Attend industry events, conferences and professional association meetings to expand your network. The broader your professional network, the more likely you’ll come across unadvertised job leads and insider information that gives you an edge.
You need to polish your interview skills
You finally landed an interview for your dream job. Don’t let interview nerves and rusty skills blow your chances. Prepare thoroughly so you can confidently showcase your qualifications.
Practice responding to common interview questions so your answers will come across as natural, not rehearsed. Refresh your knowledge of the company’s products, services, customers and competitors. Review the specific job description again and prepare examples of times you successfully performed each duty.
Dress professionally in clean, pressed attire. Arrive 10-15 minutes early. Bring extra copies of your resume, a list of references, paper, and pen. Make eye contact and sit up straight. Avoid fidgeting or slouching. Be aware of your body language.
Following up after the interview with a thank you note reiterating your interest can also create a positive impression on the hiring team.
You’re not customizing your applications
With most companies using applicant tracking systems to screen resumes, you can’t just submit a generic application and expect it to catch a recruiter’s attention. Tailor each application to every role so keywords and relevant experience are matched to the specific position.
Read the full job description carefully. Research the company. Identify a few key ways your background and qualifications make you a great fit for that role at that company. Work those details into your cover letter, resume and answers to any supplemental application questions.
When you take the time to customize your materials to each application, you’re much more likely to make it past the initial screening stage. This means investing significant time and effort for each job you apply to, but this targeted approach can drastically improve your chances.
You’re not following up
After submitting an application, don’t just sit and wait for the phone to ring. Follow up within about a week if you haven’t heard anything. You can call the company’s recruiter or hiring manager, or send an email reaffirming your strong interest.
Following up shows initiative and persistence, two qualities hiring managers want to see in candidates. It can also help keep your application from getting lost in the shuffle.
If a company remains non-responsive after a follow-up attempt or two, refocus your efforts elsewhere. Continue applying to new openings that are a good match for your qualifications.
You’re underestimating the competition
Even for roles that are a perfect match for your background, you’re almost always up against a pool of qualified competitors. Don’t underestimate the level of competition. The more applicants there are for a given opening, the harder you need to work to stand out.
Make sure your resume is polished and error-free. Give extra attention to crafting a strong cover letter. Prepare unique success stories to share during interviews. Collect glowing references. The competition is intense, so take advantage of any opportunity to shine and show why you’re the ideal candidate.
You’re not expanding your options
In a competitive job market, you may need to broaden your search criteria and get creative. Rather than fixating on exactly recreating your old job, start looking for new industries or roles where some of your skills and experience can transfer.
You may also need to expand your geographic search if you’ve been limiting yourself to openings in a small area. Be open to locations you may not have initially considered. Expanding your options can open up possibilities you didn’t realize were available.
It just takes time
As frustrating as the job search process can be, it’s important to remember that it takes time. On average, it takes about six weeks to land a new job. Don’t expect overnight results. You may need to put in months of consistent effort before getting an offer.
Keep tweaking and improving your search strategies. Continue networking, applying, following up and seeking feedback. With persistence and dedication, the right opportunity that’s a great match for your skills will eventually come through.
Conclusion
An ineffective job search can take a toll on your confidence, but don’t get discouraged. Take the time to evaluate where your approach could use some improvement. Are you targeting the right jobs? Is your resume flawless? Are you leveraging your network connections? Refine your strategies and stay persistent. With the right techniques and some patience, you can get your job search back on track.
Key Takeaways
| Reason | Solution |
|---|---|
| Not targeting the right jobs | Be more strategic and only apply to roles closely matched to your qualifications |
| Weak resume | Thoroughly update and optimize your resume to highlight relevant skills and achievements |
| Not networking effectively | Leverage connections in your industry to uncover leads and insider opportunities |
| Need to improve interview skills | Practice responses to common questions and thoroughly prepare for each specific role |
| Not customizing application materials | Tailor your resume and cover letter to match keywords and requirements for each individual job |
| Not following up after applying | Follow up within a week if you don’t hear back after submitting an application |
| Underestimating the competition | Go above and beyond to stand out from the applicant pool for each role |
| Not expanding options | Look beyond your exact previous job description and consider new industries or locations |
| Expecting overnight results | Remember the job search takes consistent time and effort; don’t get discouraged |
