3 Common Job Search Challengesand How to Overcome Them

3 Common Job Search Challengesâ€"and How to Overcome Them 3 Common Job Search Challenges- and How to Overcome Them Let’s face it- the job search is no walk in the park. It seems like just when you have things figured out and are making progress, yet another stumbling block swoops in and threatens to stand between you and that dream job of yours. Yes, there are plenty of job search challenges to overcome. But, fortunately, they don’t need to stop you in your tracks. There are a few different things you can do to move past those frustrating roadblocks and make it to the other side of your search- with as little stress as possible. Here are three common job search challenges  and how you can conquer them: 1. Avoiding the Resume Black Hole You’ll fill out your fair share of online applications when you’re looking for a new gig. And, while they’re convenient (hey, it sure beats needing to drive to the office to wait unannounced in that lobby with copies of your resume in tow!), they can also make you feel somewhat invisible. You click that “submit” button on that application you spent hours polishing, and you’re instantly met with that sinking feeling that it’ll never actually find its way in front of human eyeballs. It’s destined for a life floating aimlessly in that dreaded resume black hole. How to Deal: First of all, rest assured that this is a totally justified concern. Thanks to the prevalence of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), job applications typically need to make it through plenty of filters and screenings before they ever land on the hiring manager’s desk. So, how can you battle with those pesky robots? There are two things that will help you more than anything else. First and foremost, you need to tailor your resume to the job description- yes, for every single job you apply for. That ATS will be set up to look for certain keywords or phrases. If they don’t appear on your document? You’re well on your way to the trash bin. So, take the time to ensure you target your materials to the position at hand (and, of course, be honest!). Secondly, don’t forget the benefit of following up. If a week or two has gone by and you haven’t heard anything, don’t hesitate to find a contact at the company that you can reach out to to check on the status of your application. Sometimes that human connection (and that demonstration of your interest!) is all you need to push your application to the next round. 2. Finding an “in” with a Company Are you sick of the whole, “It’s not always what you know, but who you know” cliché? It might be a tired sentiment, but it still holds some water. Statistics say that anywhere between 70-85% of open jobs are filled through networking. But, what if you don’t have any sort of personal connection to that company? Do you need to resign yourself to being yet another number on their applicant list? Or, is there a way to get your name in front of the right people and ensure that your resume stands out from all of the other anonymous ones that are in the pile? How to Deal: When it comes to leaping this hurdle, researching the company will be your very best friend. In addition to getting familiar with the overall company, you should also dedicate some detective work to researching current employees. Are you able to dig up the name of the relevant department leader? Or, maybe somebody in human resources? If you’re feeling extra brave, you can send a LinkedIn connection request with a personalized message stating that you’re excited to find out more about the job opportunity. It’ll go beyond that anonymity you often experience in your job search and allow the employer to put a face with the name. It’s also wise to continue networking (even outside that company!) as you’re going through your job search. You never know who can connect you with who. And, if that one job doesn’t end up panning out, an expanded network will be a huge asset to you as you pursue your next opportunity. 3. Knowing What to Expect in the Interview Job interviews are nerve-wracking. Your palms get sweaty, your knees get shaky, your mouth gets dry, and you’re feeling anxious about having all of the right answers to whatever questions the interviewer throws your way. Unless you have a crystal ball, there’s no way to know exactly what you can expect out of a job interview (every single one is different!). However, there are some things you can do to make sure you’re adequately prepared- even for the unexpected. How to Deal: When you’re feeling nervous about knocking the actual interview questions out of the park, it’s helpful to practice. Look up some of the most common interview questions and then run through your responses to each. Of course, you don’t want to come off as an overly rehearsed robot. But, knowing some of the major points you want to touch on will give you some added peace of mind. Additionally, don’t be afraid to reach out to the person who set up the interview to get some of your more basic questions answered. Whether you’re wondering where to park, who you’ll be meeting with, or how long you should anticipate that interview lasting, go ahead and ask. Having those details sorted out will clear your mind and allow you to walk into that interview with a little more confidence. The job search comes with its fair share of challenges. But, they’re nothing you can’t handle. Put these strategies to work, and you’ll make it through your hunt in one piece- and hopefully with a brand-new job! Know someone looking for a job? 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