Regardless of economic factors, finding a new job is often a lengthy and cumbersome process. However, now that the pandemic is no longer a factor and news reports keep stating that companies are battling labor shortages, many would assume the landscape is easier to navigate.
Unfortunately, many candidates are still experiencing difficulties when looking for new opportunities. Here’s an overview of why landing a position remains challenging and what candidates can do to increase their odds of success.
Why It’s Still Difficult to Find a Job
There are several reasons why many candidates are struggling to find opportunities, even as companies state they’re starved for candidates. First, the types of positions that are seeing the highest levels of labor shortages aren’t always what job seekers are after. As a result, it can be true that there are far more openings than suitable employees and that finding roles in specific fields is hard.
Another common cause is how companies hire. Some businesses remain focused on finding the “perfect” candidate, something that may not legitimately exist. As a result, capable professionals may get turned down for jobs they can reasonably do simply because they don’t check every box hiring managers are using to evaluate applicants.
In some cases, the primary issue is that outside job seekers compete directly against internal candidates. It’s common for companies to favor existing employees when evaluating applicants, as they’re often considered known quantities.
It’s also critical to note that not every job listing represents a position the company seeks to fill immediately. Some businesses advertise positions solely to build up talent pools for later use, making it easier for them to find candidates when a need genuinely arises.
Finally, it’s common for companies to use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to prescreen candidates. With these, you’re trying to show an automated screener that you’re a solid match, something that’s often easier said than done.
Fortunately, there are ways around many of these challenges. By using the right strategies, you can increase your odds of success.
How to Improve Your Odds of Job Search Success
One of the first steps candidates need to take when launching a job search is to incorporate keywords found in job ads into their resumes. Usually, the terms and phrases in the listing reflect what an ATS is programmed to find when assessing matches. By including the keywords precisely as they’re written in the job description, the ATS will likely see you as a strong fit.
Tailoring your resume to the position by ensuring any accomplishments you discuss strongly relate to the role also makes a difference. With this approach, when a hiring manager reviews your resume, they’ll see examples of how you can provide them with value. Ultimately, that makes a difference when it comes to landing interviews.
Finally, make sure to partner with a recruitment agency during your job search. With access to unadvertised openings, your recruiter can assist with every part of the job search process, giving you a critical ally. If you’re ready for your next new job, GSG Talent Solutions wants to hear from you. Contact us today.