Navigating the Job Hunt: With Honesty and Strategy

We've all been there, applying for jobs and anxiously awaiting a response. What's worse than silence? Months later, receiving a generic email. Perhaps they shared that they went with an internal candidate or put the job on hold. Sound familiar? It's frustrating. Do you want the truth, insights, and actionable advice to improve your chances next time? Don't be afraid to email asking if they can share advice on areas you can improve.

Now, picture this: you stumble upon a job listing that ignites your excitement. The catch? You only check off some of the boxes. You're not alone. According to Workopolis, 75% of applicants don't meet the minimum requirements. Please note, if you repeatedly apply for roles you're not qualified for, hoping they'll magically see your potential, you're playing a risky game. Your chances of getting that callback plummet.

Of course, exceptions exist. Occasionally, candidates land jobs despite not fitting the mold perfectly, but most employers crave candidates who fit like puzzle pieces—those who check every box. Sometimes, the ideal fit doesn't check every skill set.

So, here's my advice: Be the standout candidate by creating a compelling summary & resume with detailed bullet points showcasing your experience/skills from the requirement section of the job description you're applying for. I have always stated that there is no such thing as one resume, summary, or elevator pitch; you need to tweak it according to each job you are applying for.

For example, If you are interviewing for a role that requires team leadership and problem-solving skills, your bullet points should reflect that. See examples below-

Leadership: I led a diverse team on a high-stakes project where clear communication and decisive action were paramount. By implementing regular weekly check-ins and fostering an open environment for feedback, the team was able to meet deadlines effectively, resulting in a 30% increase in project completion rates.

Problem-Solving: I conducted a thorough analysis of critical areas for improvement in the supply chain, which resulted in a workflow restructuring and the implementation of new software that reduced operational costs by 20%.

Honesty matters. If you lack specific skills or experience, don't add them to your resume; if you can't talk in-depth about how you have used them in previous roles, leave them out.

Remember, being a great candidate isn't just about checking every box but sharing a compelling career story and your value add.

It isn't just about having hard skills but also soft skills like integrity, leadership, relationship-building, communication, & critical thinking. You should be ready to speak to these qualities to show you can bridge that gap with other outstanding skills.

If you are interested in delving into these topics further- Schedule a free 30-minute consultation https://calendly.com/mia-j-kennedy/free-30-min-introduction-call