The job search process can be confusing and intimidating, to
say the least. But the good news is that there are some little-known facts that
can actually clear up a lot of that confusion and make the process a little
more approachable.
So, check these out—they just might make a big difference in
your next search:
1. Most Jobs Are a Secret
OK, they’re not a secret, per se, but 80% of jobs never get
posted and are only found through networking.
Which means, scouring the web is not enough. It works great
for seeing what’s out there, but for all those other jobs, you’ll need to talk
to other humans.
So, make sure to supplement your online research with
real-world activities. As a first step, map out who you know. You can start by
creating a list of former co-workers, classmates, teammates, and more. Then,
reach out to friends and acquaintances for informal advice and to learn more
about their roles.
Take some time crafting your message:
Weak: “Hey, I noticed you have an open job at your company.
Can you help me?”
Strong: “Hi, I’m really interested in exploring different
ways to grow my career and enhance my learning. I’d love to learn more about
your experiences.”
Read More: “Help Me Find a Job!” Emails to Send to Your
Network
2. Knowing Someone on the Inside Can Get You Hired
Maybe the job you’re looking for is posted online, but that
doesn’t mean you should keep your interest to yourself. With so many
applicants, more and more companies rely on the networks of their existing
employees. Especially because companies want to hire people who “get it” and
who’ll click with the current staff.
Here’s the thing: Only 7% of job applicants get an employee
referral, yet referrals account for 40% of all hires! So, basically, having
someone put in a good word will give you a serious leg up on the competition.
Luckily, asking is easier than you think.
Read More: How to Ask a Friend to Put in a Good Word for You
at a Job
3. Recruiters Don’t Really Read Your Resume
Well, they do, but they don’t. Recruiters spend, on average,
six seconds reviewing your resume. Translation: A resume alone won’t get you a
job, but a bad one can ruin your chances.
So, you need to make it as user-friendly as possible.
Include relevant experience, keep it to one page, and whatever you do, don’t
forget to run spell check. A quick scan might not capture all of your
awesomeness, but it will catch any glaring errors that will send your
application right to the trash bin.
Read More: You Have 6 Seconds to Grab a Recruiter’s
Attention—Here’s How to Do It
4. Hundreds of People Are Applying for the Same Job
Did you know that a typical corporate job posting will
attract 250 resumes on average? With this in mind, you might want to think
twice before just throwing your resume in with the other 249 again and again. I
know, that number’s scary. But it’s a good reminder of why you do need to
tailor your application and put in that extra energy.
So, the first thing to do before you submit any applications
is make sure you really want this position. Because if you don’t, you won’t be
motivated enough to do what it takes to stand out. (Or you’ll burn out spending
hours applying to jobs you don’t actually want.)
Read More: How to Apply for Fewer Jobs (But Land More
Interviews)
5. The Job Search Drags on (for Everyone)
On average, it takes about 52 days to fill a job opening. In
other words, this won’t be a fast process. And that’s something to keep in mind
when you see an opening that looks amazing. It’s better to take a few days to
submit the perfect application than it is to fire off your materials right away
without customizing them at all.
It’s also something to remember when you’re waiting to hear
back after an interview. While “having patience” is easier said than done, it’s
certainly key.
Read More: 4 Reasons Your Job Search Is Dragging On and On
6. Your Embarrassing Email Address Will Disqualify You
Hey, hotstuff12345@hotmail.com, unfortunately you and your
friend Ih8work@aol.com, will fall into the group of 76% of resumes that are
thrown out simply because their email address were unprofessional. I know that
seems like an unbelievably high number, but the good news is, it should cut
down on the competition from the 249 applying to the same job as you!
Please, please don’t be the person to use your email from
middle school. And don’t overlook less obvious things—like if your email
address is “engineersteve@yourdomainename.com” and you’re trying to land a job
in a completely new field.
Read More: 4 Simple Resume Changes That’ll Get the Hiring
Manager’s Attention