1. You are not as qualified as you think
Every time you apply for a job, it is best you check what the job requirements are. Hiring managers are always keen to uphold standards of their organizations hence; policies are adhered to attract the best talent. For example, if the Job description mentioned several years of experience as a requirement, the lack of it will mean it is unlikely you will receive that phone call
Read the Job description carefully to ensure you fit the requirements.
2. Revamp your Resume’
A colorful resume’ should capture your details including strengths and why you think you are the best candidate for the job. It is advised that you take your time to understand the Job description then have a resume’ that captures your skills that relate to the job and skills that will benefit the company.
3. Average Cover letters
A cover letter is simply a summary of your CV. It serves as an appetizer to the recruiter hence it should capture the finer details of your CV and expound on them in relation how your strengths will benefit the company.
Your cover letter should also be free of language and grammatical errors.
4. Not following Instructions
Most recruiters are strict on application procedures and guidelines. This is a move to ensure provision of equal opportunities in the recruitment and selection process. The recruiter may hence demand certain information or require that every applicant uses a specific means while applying for a position. If an applicant submits an application in a different way from the stated means, this may show lack of attentiveness. For example, if they insist on online or mail applications, submitting a hardcopy application may never reach the hiring manager.
5. Poor network with insiders
Many people like to work with someone that can easily relate with or know from somewhere, e.g. a friend, a friend of a friend. This builds the trust as you are all connected in a way; Like the saying goes, ‘’It is who you know and not what you know.’’
Networking abilities are crucial in any job search. It is wise you keep close contact with insiders as your professional network. You can also use a name of an employee in the company in your cover letter and explain how you connect with the company. Some applications will demand you mention how you heard about the job. If you heard from an insider or someone close, that means you have a close relation hence likely to fit in the culture and environment besides knowing a few things about the company already. Online-administered aptitude tests are a few means used to select successful candidates.
If you don’t get called, you probably didn’t fit their type
6. You are not their type
Every company has specific traits they seek in employees. The traits should enable a candidate to easily fit within the system and culture of the organization. Assessment centres or online-ad
However, here are a few tips to
get called for an interview, as explained by Maro Onokpise, a renowned Human Resource
consultant from the University of Central Florida
Everyone is going after the big names in your industry. You have to go where the competition isn’t or at least where the odds are stacked in your favor. You can still apply to the larger firms, but focus your time and energy on companies that are lesser known.
Most times, these companies don’t have as much red tape, and hiring decisions come down pretty quickly. You also have the potential to make a name for yourself .
Go beyond standard research
You want to move beyond the standard information that’s out there about a company. Find out more about the positions they are recruiting for and how your particular skill sets can help them to solve a problem they have.
Companies respond very favorably to individuals that can think on their feet and articulate a solution to a problem they may be having.
Craft a laser focused resume and cover letter
To set yourself apart from any other candidate out there, you’re going to need to spend some time tailoring your resume, cover letter and responses to the specific position being advertised. Anything less, and you’re doing yourself a disservice.
The more that you are able to show that you are a match, the more likely you will be invited in for an interview.
Meet deadlines
A late application is no application. By putting your job applications in order according to their deadlines, you’ll be able to manage your applications in a way that ensures they will go out in a timely fashion.
Employers need to know that you are able to prioritize and meet deadlines.
Follow up on applications or resumes submitted
It’s always a good idea to follow up to make sure that your application or resume was received and to find out what the next steps are. As long as you’re not being a pest, the employer will be more apt to remembering you if you take that initiative.
By being proactive, and following up, you’re going from just an electronic application to an individual that’s showing initiative and drive. All qualities that potential employers are looking for.
