You may be convinced that the only sure road to a job interview is submitting to every job you see posted anywhere. Recent research says it takes more than 100 job applications—and often more than 200—to get one job offer. So it sounds like a sheer numbers game, right?
However, those numbers assume that you know when and where to submit your resume. You should submit your resume for:
- Jobs you are qualified for. If you insist on trying for every position regardless of fit, your numbers will soar. Only submit a resume if you can meet at least 90 percent of the criteria and can learn the rest.
- Industries and companies you understand. Your resume should demonstrate a clear understanding of the industry and company: knowledge of keywords, acronyms, customers, and issues facing the industry or company.
- Positions you want. Hiring managers and recruiters look for enthusiasm, a growth mindset, engagement, skills, education, and experience.
- Networking opportunities. Even if you are qualified for a job and submit a perfect resume for the job, some studies have shown that you have an 80% better chance to get a job if you network for a job. If you find a job you want, see if someone in your network has a connection to the company or hiring manager.
You will increase your chances of finding a job when you submit your resume for jobs you are qualified for, in industries and companies you understand, and for positions that excite you. Where will you find those jobs? You should submit your resume:
- On LinkedIn as well as online job websites.
- At networking events. Some experts suggest you spend as much as 50 percent of your job search networking in person.
- In industry bulletins and newspapers. Yes, job postings still appear in print.
- At college career centers. Undergraduates and graduate students should use the career center’s links to networking groups and possible job opportunities.
- At job fairs. Check out the job fair ahead of time to make sure it includes companies you are interested in. Treat each conversation as a micro-interview.
- At company websites. If you are certain of your geographic area and industry, research appropriate companies and go directly to their websites to read about job openings.
- For temporary or part-time positions. You may take a temporary or part-time job to weather unemployment or get a foot in the door of a company or industry. Make sure your employers know you are looking for a permanent, full-time position.
- During a cold call. You can call or write (snail mail is better than email) to a targeted company to briefly introduce yourself—you may receive a brush off, but you may be rewarded for your enterprise.
Robin’s Resumes® offers career coaching, LinkedIn profile writing, and other services to ensure that your resume hits the desk of recruiters and hiring managers and sparks their interest. We help you find the best when and where to submit your resume.