Job Search "Hacks" You Should Avoid – And What Actually Works

Have you ever felt bombarded by all the “hacks” out there promising to speed up your job search? Let’s be real: some of them might actually hurt more than help. From ATS keyword “hacks” to quick-apply shortcuts, here’s what you really need to know to avoid these traps and keep your career on track.

1. The Hidden Keyword Trick – Why “Invisible” Skills Don’t Work

One popular trick involves pasting job keywords in white, “invisible” text on your resume to “beat” the ATS (Applicant Tracking System). Sounds clever, but it’s actually a huge red flag. Recruiters see it as keyword stuffing, and it can throw your whole application into question. Plus, ATS systems highlight keywords for recruiters, so this trick gets exposed almost immediately.

What to Do Instead: Save yourself the trouble—use keywords naturally in your experience and skills sections. Focus on real achievements, measurable results, and showing how you’re genuinely qualified for the role.

2. Using AI to Identify Keywords – Pros and Cons

ChatGPT and AI tools can be handy for finding key terms, but just running job descriptions through an AI doesn’t create a standout resume. An AI-generated keyword list on its own won’t impress recruiters.

What to Do Instead: Think of AI as a helper, not a substitute. Look over job descriptions yourself and build out strong bullet points with relevant terms, showcasing how you stand out. A powerful resume isn’t just keywords—it’s your unique achievements.

3. Interview Cheat Sheets – Why They Backfire

Some people suggest loading up on “cheat sheets” during virtual interviews. But while prep is essential, too many notes can slow you down, create awkward pauses, and honestly, make you sound rehearsed.

What to Do Instead: Practice key points in advance and get comfortable with STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories. Try recording a practice Zoom call so you feel more natural. Confident answers come from preparation, not from glancing over notes mid-interview.

4. The Spray and Pray Approach – The Gamble

Mass-applying to dozens of positions with a generic resume might sound efficient, but for higher-value roles, it just doesn’t cut it. Employers can tell when applications are one-size-fits-all.

What to Do Instead: Take the time to research in order to strategize your next steps. Narrow down roles and that way you won't have to rewrite your resume every time you want to apply to a job. It’s quality over quantity, especially if you’re aiming for the next level in your career.

The Bottom Line: Avoid the Gimmicks and Go for the Real Results

The best job search results come from solid fundamentals. Forget the shortcuts - focus on what makes you a standout candidate.

And hey, if you’re curious about more TikTok “hacks” that are not only ineffective but can totally backfire, check out my video on YouTube. I go through some of the most popular trends and explain why you’ll want to avoid these at all costs!