Job-Hunting Myths
Looking for employment in an evolving job market can be an overwhelming process. Using search methods from when you found your last job might no longer be effective. Focus your energies on each stage of the job search with a clear idea on techniques that work. From job search to acceptance, falsehoods abound -- avoid discouragement by recognizing these job-hunting myths.
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Myth 1: They Are Not Hiring
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Applicants inundate employers for each advertised job, creating a competitive environment for the job seeker. Apply to companies within your field of expertise, whether they are hiring or not. Quintessential Careers reports that up to 15 to 20 percent of jobs are not advertised, mostly comprised of highly skilled jobs with a lucrative pay scale. Speak with hiring managers at a more informational level -- informing them of your interest, building your network professionally and positioning yourself for future opportunities within their companies.
Myth 2: Your Resume Must Be Short
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Do not assume your resume must be short. Employers are looking for people who can specify how they will meet the employer's needs and how relevant their work history is to their company. It is more imperative to have an error-free resume than a short one. According to a poll by the staffing firm Robert Half International Inc., 84 percent of executives will dismiss an applicant from consideration based on just two typographical errors on his resume.
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Myth 3: Negotiating a Salary is Inappropriate
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Negotiating a salary is appropriate at the right time during the interview -- when the employer brings the topic up. Educate yourself by learning what the standard wage is for your specific skill level in your locale by visiting Payscale and The United States Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. If a hiring manager offers an unreasonable wage, negotiate for the industry standard or for what you consider reasonable. Accepting a lower starting wage could leave you unsatisfied and disgruntled.
Myth 4: You Interviewed Well, So Now You Wait
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During the interview process, an employer might tell you when a hiring decision is forthcoming. The overwhelming majority of hiring managers state that job candidates should contact them after the interview, according to Robert Half International Inc. Do not be a nuisance by contacting them too soon, though; two weeks is customary unless otherwise stated. Customary contact methods are by phone, email and letter. A handwritten, personalized thank you note for the interview opportunity is also appropriate.
Myth 5: You are Not the Most Qualified for the Job
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If you have an interview, the hiring manager thinks you might be a good fit for the company. While it is true that the most qualified candidate might get the job, managers also base their hiring decisions on soft skills, such as interpersonal communication, rapport with the interviewer and your ability to be a team player. During the interview, focus on these skills by answering questions in a manner that gives you an advantage over those with a higher education and qualifications.
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References
- Career Builder: 6 Job Hunting Myths Debunked; Robert Half International Inc.; May 2009
- Fox Business: Six Job Hunting Myths Debunked; Emily Driscoll; August 2010
- Quintessential Careers: 15 Myths and Misconceptions About Job-Hunting; Randal S. Hansen, Ph.D.
- "Forbes": Ten Myths of Job Interviewing; Susan Adams; October 2010
Resources
- Photo Credit job image by Andrey Kiselev from Fotolia.com
