Let’s talk about job hunting myths. Often disguised as fact, the truth is they can really hold you back on the job front. What do we mean? We’ll let our resident expert, Joy lift the lid on this one.
- Apply for as many jobs as possible :: While it is admirable to be keen and try hard – particularly when you’re starting out, you don’t want to be seen as a nuisance. Get some help identifying your skills and interests, and matching them up with the right jobs. Never send out a generic application – make sure you customise it for each job you are applying for.
- Keep your resume to one page :: Make sure the most relevant details are on the front page, (e.g. your experience) and although we don’t need to know your hobbies, we do need to know about things like what software you can use.
- Stick with the same industry :: You don’t have to run away to join the circus to get a change of career. You can use your existing skill set to transfer into a different industry, which will give you a whole new perspective. If you have been a school teacher, perhaps you could change to the administration side of education within a government department. If you’re a tax accountant, you could change to a different field of accounting.
- If you don’t have a degree, forget it :: For some roles, a degree is a necessity, so don’t be disappointed in those cases. But for others, you can demonstrate your ability with experience. For example, if you have five years or more experience working in the exact job advertised – then the recruiter will probably look at your application favourably.
- Skills trump everything :: Be engaged during the interview process and show that you are keen and interested in the organisation. A cheerful attitude rather than a sense of entitlement will win hands down.
Finally, don’t set yourself up for failure by applying for jobs that you are clearly not qualified for. For example, if the employer asks for a minimum of 3 – 5 years’ experience in the field – don’t apply if you have never worked in that field. Do an analysis of your skills and then match those skills with advertised positions to help you narrow the field. Better yet, seek out assistance through a recruitment firm to get professional advice.
Do you need some recruitment advice? Give Joy a call on (07) 4638 3599.