With a large amount of advice and information out there regarding the job search process, it can be hard to know what advice to rely on. Let's separate the facts from the fiction and expose some major job search myths. Once you know, you should have more job search success.
Myth 1: APPLY TO AS MANY JOBS AS POSSIBLE
Generally speaking, it is good to apply for as many jobs as possible. But there is a difference between finding a job and finding one that suits you, you actually want and can do. Spend some time thinking about what you are looking for in your next job and narrow down your search to the right jobs for you. Research the role and understand what the specific role entails and what skills and experience are required. Avoid applying to the same job more than once - companies can use various job boards to post the same job. Important is the quality of your applications, not the quantity. Don't waste time applying for roles you will most likely not want or you are not qualified for - being rejected from your job applications can create low self-esteem.
Myth 2: A FANCY CV TEMPLATE MAKES YOU STAND OUT
A CV is not a creative painting but a factual document and doesn’t stand out due to images, flashy colours, or special fonts. A successful CV stands out through relevant content. Most of the templates you can find online are not ATS compatible as they contain text boxes and columns, and both can prevent ATS from reading your CV correctly. If your CV is not ATS friendly and ATS can't scan your CV correctly, your chances of getting picked for an interview are meagre, even if you are the perfect fit for the job. ATS, hiring managers, and recruiters prefer traditional, single column CVs that can be quickly understood and highlight the relevant information.
Myth 3: ONE CV FITS ANY JOB
It is ok to broaden your job search and not to narrow down options. However, ATS and recruiters are looking for someone who fits a specific role, not someone who "might" fit any role. It is the content of your CV that separates you from the competition, and the more relevant your CV is, the higher your success rate. When writing your CV, ensure content is as optimised as possible to the role you target. Research, cross-reference job advert content with your content, and ensure all relevant experiences, skills, keywords, and qualifications are presented clearly. If you target different roles, ensure you prepare more than one CV, each tailored to the job.
Myth 4: MY CV SHOULD SHOWCASE EVERYTHING AND ANYTHING I HAVE DONE
Your CV must not contain everything and anything you have done in your career life. Generally speaking, it is not recommended to expand on job information past 10 years. Always include all your roles, but no need to go into detail. Unless you seek a career change and it showcases transferable skills, you have already proved that you can do the job and progressed in your career. Keep your CV as relevant to the requirements as possible. The accepted industry length for a CV is two pages. However, a one page CV can work especially well for specific verticals, including skill/task focused roles, NED/C-Suite, international jobs, graduate, entry and transitional careers. A three page CV is only ever acceptable for contractors and freelancers or project-based professionals who must provide deeper detail.
Myth 5: NOBODY READS COVER LETTERS
According to Zety, 45% of recruiters will reject an application if it has been sent without a Cover Letter. Having a targeted Cover Letter can be critical in your application process. It is your chance to submit your professional sales proposal, through which you quickly pitch your skills, experience, and relevance to instantly grab attention. Applying with a professional Cover Letter can increase your success by 40%.
Myth 6: NO NEED TO UPDATE LINKEDIN
Jobvite Recruiter Nation Report states 87% of recruiters use LinkedIn to check candidates and vet CVs. Besides having a great CV, owning a professional up to date, LinkedIn Profile is vital to your career success. Ensure your LinkedIn Profile is updated and mirrors the information of your CV. If you don't already have a Profile - get one! LinkedIn is a very important tool that allows you not only to find the right jobs and connect with the best recruiters but it also allows you to present yourself personally.
Myth 7: ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED, EXPERIENCED, AND EDUCATED CANDIDATE WILL GET THE JOB
Your passion for the job will not outweigh the lack of qualification. However, getting hired is a matter of presenting yourself as the best solution to the employer. Job descriptions are often written for the perfect candidate, and some factors may be flexible. More and more, it is as much about who you are, as to what you do. As part of the selection process, employers now look for "soft skills & attributes" which match their company culture. According to Jobvite, 60% of recruiters look for a cultural fit on a CV. Stay one step ahead of the competition. Review relevant company profiles and job adverts and introduce "soft skills & attributes" to your CV that match.
Conclusion
We at the CV Squad know job hunting can be challenging, but if you let go of the above myths and pay close attention to the facts, you should land a job faster. There's no magic involved in getting a job - the more organised you are, the less likely you will become overwhelmed. The more prepared you are, the faster you will secure a job.