Reasons Why Your Job Search Is Taking Longer Than Expected
Erin Kennedy
Executive Resume Writer | LinkedIn Profiles | Outplacement Services | Coaching | LI Top Voice for Resumes & Job Search Strategies | Forbes & Jobscan Top Followed | Career Storyteller | Home of OFFICE LATTE PODCAST! ?
Most people, especially executives, don’t have to look for a new job very often. Either they are happy in their current role, or they are recruited to the next role without skipping a beat. So if it’s been several years since you last conducted a job search, you’ll notice things most likely have changed drastically. Visiting a professional resume writing service should be your first step, just to make sure your resume is updated and current. If you can’t use a service for whatever reason, at least have a friend or colleague proof it for mistakes or things you may have left off. Some job seekers are still surprised it takes them so long to find a job. Here are some of common reasons why job searches take longer than expected and how you can expedite the process.
Not Targeting Effectively
Before even writing your resume, you have to target the industry or specific employer you want to send a resume to. Your resume has to demonstrate the value you bring to the table, so if you don’t know what a company needs, you won’t be able to show your value clearly. Target a your ideal companies and research them thoroughly, including each job description, so you know exactly what they need. The hiring manager will be able to identify how serious you are about the position based on the information in your resume.
Exhausting Efforts On Job Boards
Too many jobseekers make the mistake of spending a significant amount of time applying for jobs through job boards. While jobs may seem plentiful, you are also just a number and the chances of you getting hired through one are slim. Instead, spend your time networking with other professionals through networking events or even LinkedIn. The majority of senior-level positions aren’t going to be posted online, but rather, internally. So networking is your best option for tapping into the hidden job market and landing a job quicker.
Not Focusing On Your Personal Brand
Your personal brand is an essential component when it comes to getting hired. You have to assume hiring managers are going to Google search your name, so it’s highly recommended for you to do the same and see what the results show. Clean up anything you don’t want to be visible to ensure your online presence reflects who you are as a person. It is very easy to adjust your privacy settings on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. Use them.
Making Mistakes In Your Resume
Spending a lot of time writing an effective resume is valuable, but even minor mistakes can hurt your chances of landing an interview. Have an executive resume writer tweak your resume and proofread it thoroughly to ensure there are no mistakes damaging your efforts. It’s easier than you think to omit information or overlook a critical typographical error, so make sure your resume is spotless before distributing it to potential employers.
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5 年Erin Kennedy MCD, CMRW, CERW, CPRW, CEMC you have hit the nail on it's head! Resume writing does not come naturally. It takes effort and time to prepare a resume, for getting the phone to ring! My 2 Cents: - Most often people write task oriented resumes rather than focusing on quantifiable outcomes with numbers and achievements. Using (SAR ) Situation Action Result helps. - Using tools in a resume can throw off the Applicant Tracking Software (ATS). Keep it simple to make it scanable. Seeking help from a resume writer ensures that you are in line with current industry practices. All the best!