10 reasons why you're not landing the job and how you can fix it

Job hunting can be a nerve-wracking experience at times. You will spend hours meticulously crafting your resume and writing compelling cover letters only to get rejected by employers. Rejection is a normal part of a job search. However, if the only thing that you hear back from employers after sending a resume is cricket sounds, there is something clearly wrong with your job application.

Understanding why you're not landing an interview offer is the first step toward improving your job search strategy. Here are 10 reasons why you're struggling to get noticed by employers and actionable advice to help you turn the tide:

Your resume is not tailored to the job.

The biggest reason why you are not landing the job is because you are using the same generic resume to apply for all the jobs. A generic resume does not cut it in today's competitive job market. Most employers use applicant tracking systems to screen your applications. If you don't get through the initial screenings, your resume will never be seen by a hiring manager.

You do not follow up after job applications.

It's important to send out a perfect job application for each job that you're attracted to. However, applying and waiting is not enough to stand out in this busy job market. Employers often receive hundreds of job applications per posting. Only the proactive candidates manage to stand out. Ensure that you are landing the job by sending a polite enquiry e-mail after job applications and job interviews.

You don't utilize your professional network.

Did you know that a majority of jobs in the US are filled through referrals? Hiring managers prefer to fill opportunities through referrals and personal contacts. Talk to your professional network and find someone to vouch for your skills and work ethic. One of the biggest reasons why you're not landing the job is because you are underutilizing your professional network.

You don't apply to enough jobs.

When it to comes to a job search, the quality matters just as much as the quantity. Pinning all your hopes on one or two applications might be the reason why you're not landing the job. Limiting the number of job applications that you send out per week will limit your chances of success. Therefore, it is important that you have a clear set of goals for the number of job applications you plan to make within a day or a week.

You have multiple mistakes on your resume.

One of the biggest reasons why fully qualified candidates fail to land a job is due to their resume having multiple spelling, grammar, or formatting. Although you will not be judged for your language skills or formatting skills on your resume, displaying several errors on the front page might make recruiters and employers rethink your attention to detail. You can avoid this by proofreading your resume several times before sending it out. There are multiple online tools such as Grammarly to help you review your resume.

Your skills don't match the job descriptions.

We admire your tenacity in applying for jobs that you like. However, each choice that you make during a job search must be a strategic one. If you submit a resume for a job for which you clearly lack qualifications, you will undoubtedly be rejected by the employer. Therefore, it is imperative that you choose and apply for jobs that you are qualified for. Don't make the mistake of appearing underqualified or overqualified for a position when you send in a job application.

Your timing is off.

Timing matters a lot when it comes to a successful job search. The reason why you're not landing the job could be because you are applying during busy or off peak periods. Holidays or the end of the fiscal year might not be the ideal times to apply for your dream job. Aim to hit the job market during the hiring peaks. Also, don't wait until the last moment to send in your job application. Try to get through to the employer before the deadline closes.

You have an inconsistent online presence.

One of the biggest reasons why you're not landing a job is due to your online presence being inconsistent with what's listed in your job applications. Many recruiters have the habit of checking the social media profiles of job seekers for professionalism. The best thing is to adjust the privacy settings of your social media profiles during a job search. You can also ensure that your LinkedIn profile is professional and up to date.

You don't prepare enough for interviews.

Confidence is the key to winning an interview. However, confidence alone is not enough. Failing to impress the hiring manager during a meeting will derail your job search. If you didn't put in enough preparation for the interview, it will show through your responses. Research the company thoroughly before you attend a job interview. Practice answering common interview questions with a friend or mentor and conduct a mock interview.

You lack confidence.

In the interview room, the interviewer is naturally drawn to candidates who project confidence and enthusiasm. If you appear unsure about the job or the company, or if you don't showcase your enthusiasm enough, it can hurt your chances with the interviewer. You can focus on your strengths and accomplishments to boost your self esteem. Practicing a few power poses and body language will also help you on the day.

By?Resume Mansion