Job searching could be a long process that requires a number of patience. If you may have been applying for brand new jobs for months with none luck, you may’t help but wonder, “Why won’t anyone hire me?”
Well, there are many possibilities as to why you may’t discover a job. The excellent news is there are also things you may do to repair them and improve your possibilities of getting hired.
Listed below are 18 possible reasons nobody is hiring you – and what to do to repair it.
1. Your Resume & Cover Letter Need Work
You stands out as the perfect candidate for the job, but in case your resume and canopy letter don’t convey that, you won’t be getting called for an interview.
Hiring managers only scan your resume for a mean of 6 seconds, so it should be properly formatted and include an important information first. Nevertheless, many corporations also use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan your resume for keywords. So, your resume needs to be scannable each to the human eye and to computer software.
Check for errors equivalent to typos, spelling mistakes, grammatical mistakes, or bad formatting and proper them.
For most individuals, resumes should only be 1-page long and include some white space. In case your resume is longer than 1 page or is just too text-heavy, you’ll want to tailor it to the job and cut out anything that’s not relevant. For instance, you don’t must include your highschool education if you may have a university degree. Or, should you’re applying for an office admin job, don’t include your summer babysitting job.
Your strongest skills and accomplishments needs to be highlighted in order that they stand out.
Although your resume is yours and is about you, it’s also about them. Employers need to know (quickly) what you may do to assist their business. You have to make this clear right out of your first impression. This may be a bit of tricky to get right, especially should you’re applying for various kinds of jobs. Getting free resume assistance is the very best technique to ensure your resume and canopy letter are working for you, not against you.
2. You’re Making Mistakes with Your Job Search
You could be making mistakes together with your job search itself.
One example is that you just are only applying for jobs which are posted online when there’s an entire hidden job market on the market. Not every job emptiness gets posted on Indeed.
One other mistake you is perhaps making is barely applying for a job should you meet 100% of the qualifications. You’re not going to know the way to do all the things at a brand new job, and employers understand that. That’s why they train you. So, should you meet a lot of the required qualifications, apply for the job and see what happens!
3. You’re Applying for the Flawed Jobs
When you don’t have to be 100% qualified for each job you apply to, you do need to fulfill the minimum qualifications. Otherwise, that is only a waste of time and adds to that feeling of rejection.
You don’t understand how repeatedly I’ve seen first-year college students applying for full-time C-level or Ph.D. positions after which wonder why nobody is hiring them.
However, being overqualified for a job may also be an issue. If you happen to are an experienced C-level skilled applying for entry-level positions, you’re probably being ignored as well.
If you happen to are in this case and are genuinely thinking about applying for these roles, you’ll want to (briefly) explain why in your cover letter. For instance, you may say that you just’re changing industries or on the lookout for more flexible hours.
4. You Don’t Stand Out
You don’t wish to be one other name with one other generic resume in a pile. You have to stand out.
I don’t mean doing anything wild or ridiculous together with your job application, but you’ll want to show interest and enthusiasm for the job and highlight your skills and achievements.
Show them why they should hire you. Show your value and what you’d bring to the corporate in your application. Make it as blatantly obvious as you may.
How do you do that?
Consider your strengths and the way these will support the business, and put that in your resume. Did you narrow costs by 28% in your last job? Or increase customer satisfaction? Did you solve any problems or introduce latest, more efficient systems? That is the kind of thing employers need to know!
Which of those 2 examples stands out more to you:
- “Answerable for providing customer support” or
- “Increased customer satisfaction rating by 34% in 2023 and exceeded department’s sales goals by 18%”
The better you make things for the hiring manager, the higher impression you’ll make.
5. You Don’t Have the Right Skills or Enough Experience
The labor market is consistently changing. Your skills or experience may not be sufficient for the roles you’re thinking about. Or perhaps you don’t have any job experience in any respect. The excellent news is you may do just a few various things about this.
Online Classes
If you’ll want to brush up on certain skills or learn some latest ones, start by looking into what free online classes can be found. There are many them on the market!
If you happen to can’t find what you wish free of charge, a lot of these platforms offer courses for an inexpensive price (equivalent to $15 per course or $200-$300 for unlimited access for a 12 months).
You could need something more in-depth, equivalent to a certificate or diploma, that requires you to return to highschool. Contact your local colleges and adult education centers to see what’s available. Lots of these programs are offered online in order that they fit around your schedule.
Job Readiness Classes
Also often called essential skills, life skills, and soft skills classes, these workshop programs (which are frequently free) deal with getting you able to work. They teach you things like communication skills, critical pondering, and using technology, in addition to the way to write a resume and prepare for a job interview.
Again, to see if these classes can be found to you, contact your local colleges and adult education centers, but additionally look into training centers, libraries, and literacy groups.
Volunteer
If you happen to lack practical experience, volunteering is one technique to fix this. It doesn’t must take up a number of your time; volunteering an hour per week or giving up one Saturday per 30 days is generally enough.
Volunteering also provides you with someone you need to use as a reference.
Make Your Own Project or Work Samples
If you happen to haven’t had the prospect to make use of your skills in an expert setting, take a while to make your personal projects or work samples that you could use to reveal your abilities.
For instance, if you need to work in graphic design or freelance writing, create an internet portfolio with samples and links to your work and include the URL in your resume.
6. You Don’t Have Any Network Connections
Loads of jobs are filled through networking connections and worker referral programs. Not having network connections could make it harder to seek out a job.
Making networking connections can take time, but there are several alternative ways you may meet latest people. You should utilize social media, join an expert networking group, or really, just start talking to people and allow them to know you’re on the lookout for work.
7. Your Behavior or Attitude
You might be being judged on the way you behave during every step of the hiring process, not only during an interview.
Submitting an application late or incomplete isn’t going to assist you discover a job. Neither is complaining, being demanding, or rude while communicating with the employer (over email, over the phone, or in-person). It doesn’t matter should you’re talking to the receptionist or the CEO, you’ll want to be skilled and positive.
If you happen to’ve been job looking for an extended time, it’s also necessary that you just don’t sound desperate for a job, either. Listen to the way you act and speak with others, and be certain you don’t come across as cynical.
8. You Suck at Job Interviews
If you happen to are getting calls for interviews but aren’t getting hired, the excellent news is that your resume is doing its job. The bad news is that you just may not interview well.
Job interviews are an art form. They’ll range from casual conversations to intense, multi-step processes involving projects or homework.
The very best technique to overcome those job interview nerves is to practice, practice, practice! To be really effective, though, you’ll want to practice out loud.
If you happen to are working with a profession counselor or have access to at least one through a profession center, request a mock interview with them. Otherwise, ask a friend, member of the family, or colleague to assist you out. This may assist you be prepared for whatever questions they ask. You’ll learn what to not say or the way to say negative things in a positive way.
You ought to avoid things like not asking questions, having poor personal hygiene, being negative, or appearing unprepared during your interview. (And please be certain your cellphone is turned off!)
After the Interview
There are also things you may (and may) do after every interview.
Take into consideration what questions you were asked. Higher yet, write them down. Likelihood is good you’ll be asked these questions (or similar) again in future interviews.
How did you answer these questions? Was there anything you forgot to say, or do you may have a greater example you may use next time?
Were there any questions that you just just weren’t expecting to be asked and, due to this fact, didn’t prepare for? In that case, you would possibly find a way to handle it in your thanks letter. And yes, you have to be sending a thanks follow-up email each time! It does make a difference and might improve your possibilities of getting hired.
Don’t forget to ask for feedback. If you happen to get that dreaded email or phone call saying that you just weren’t the successful candidate, use this as a possibility to learn and grow. Ask your contact in the event that they can provide any constructive criticism. You won’t all the time get a solution, but there’s no harm in trying.
9. You Didn’t Do Your Research
Knowing nothing concerning the company you’re applying to isn’t going to get you very far, especially on the interview stage.
“What do you realize about our company?” or “Why do you need to work for us?” are common interview questions. If you happen to can’t answer them cohesively, you’re probably not going to be offered the job.
You don’t must learn all the things concerning the organization, but it’s best to know the fundamentals in addition to what’s currently happening with them. This shows employers that you just are thinking about the role and are knowledgeable concerning the industry.
10. You’re Not Following-Up
Employers aren’t going to chase you down, so you may’t be passive in your job search.
Submitting an application online or sending one email isn’t all the time going to chop it. You have to follow up with job leads, potential networking connections, and with employers after applying and interviewing for a job.
Unfortunately, they could not respond or follow up with you. But should you’re not getting hired, try reaching out 2-3 times. If you happen to still haven’t heard back, it’s time so that you can move on and focus your efforts elsewhere.
You’ll want to return emails and calls promptly. I landed the most effective jobs I ever had because I called them back inside minutes of getting their initial email. They interviewed and hired me straight away before the opposite candidates responded in any respect.
11. Employers Can’t Contact You
Is your voicemail full? Do you even have voicemail arrange in your phone?
I cannot let you know how repeatedly I’ve called job seekers at my job only to find I can’t leave them a message. If I were calling to establish an interview or give you a job, guess what? I’m going to maneuver on if I can’t reach you inside just a few attempts. The identical thing goes for emails that aren’t replied to in a timely manner, or worse yet, emails that bounce back and might’t be sent.
Remember, employers aren’t going to chase you down.
And that is such a simple thing to repair! Take 5 minutes to empty your voicemail (and be certain your greeting is skilled whilst you’re at it), and be certain your email address is spelled appropriately in your application.
If you happen to are using an email address that’s complicated or easy to misspell (equivalent to “KatelynneSchwarzenegger42661@grt.edu.hr.email.com), consider establishing a brand new account that’s easier to recollect (equivalent to KateS@email.com) – and don’t forget to ascertain it!
12. Your Online Presence is Problematic
Employers may disqualify your application in a competitive job marketplace for any reason. In the event that they find anything that may be considered a red flag, you might find yourself within the “no” pile.
Red flags in your social media may be a bit of harder to pinpoint because they will come right down to personal opinions. You could not see any issue with what you post about or the photos you share, but an employer might see something improper.
While job hunting, it’s best to err on the side of caution. Return through your profiles and delete anything which may offer you a foul skilled image, or set your profiles to non-public.
13. You Look Like a Job Hopper
It may be possible that you just appear like a job hopper. Nowadays, it’s rare for somebody to persist with one job or one company throughout their profession, but changing jobs every 6 months looks bad on a resume. It gives the look that you just’re a foul worker who can’t keep a job.
But, a number of jobs are temporary contracts or seasonal. So you might be “job hopping” for the proper reasons.
To assist hiring managers understand why you’ve moved around a lot, tell them! Indicate that the job was seasonal or temporary directly beside your job title in your resume. For instance:
- Customer Service Representative (6 Month Contract)
- Camp Counsellor (Summer)
You may as well mix roles in the event that they are similar or back-to-back. Reminiscent of:
- Customer Service Representative, ABC Company and Business Inc. (2018 – Present)
If neither of those solutions works for you, address your reasons for job-hopping in your cover letter.
14. You Lied Or Falsified Information
It’s very easy to determine if an applicant is lying on their resume.
Employers do background checks and reference checks. Your individual social media profiles also give away a number of details about your past. And should you live in a small community or work in a small industry, there’s a very good likelihood that they know you personally.
Don’t lie in your resume. It’s more likely going to smash your repute than land you a job. It isn’t well worth the risk.
15. You Have a Criminal Record
Criminal records can prevent you from working in certain roles and industries, but there are still loads of opportunities on the market.
Apply to corporations which are known to rent felons and folks with criminal records. There’s no point applying for roles that you just won’t pass the background check for.
Depending in your charges, you might also find a way to have your offenses sealed or expunged out of your record or get a pardon.
16. You Have Bad References
Once you’re acing your job interview but aren’t getting any offers, your references is perhaps the issue. The best technique to fix that is to be certain you’re using the proper people as references.
Employers often want your current or most up-to-date manager to be certainly one of your references. That may be tricky if things end on bad terms.
Use another person in case your boss refuses to be your reference or won’t speak well of you. If you happen to had multiple managers, equivalent to different shift supervisors, an office manager, and a department manager, pick the person you had the very best rapport with.
Failing that, you need to use a colleague that you just accomplished tasks or projects for. For instance, I used to be a reference for my co-worker who was the pinnacle of promoting. While I wasn’t his boss or supervisor, he was answerable for marketing my department. We worked closely together to be certain he met my deadlines and criteria so I used to be in a position to speak to his competencies.
If the issue is you don’t have any references to provide, you’ll want to find 3-4 people and ask them.
17. You Are Expecting Too Much
Asking for an unreasonable salary, flexible hours, or other advantages and types of compensation and work perks might be why nobody is hiring you.
You could have every right to be paid what you’re price, and also you don’t must settle or be taken advantage of. But do your research and be certain you don’t have unrealistic salary expectations or are asking for an excessive amount of.
Work out a sensible salary range based on the job requirements, your experience, and your absolute non-negotiables. But leave room to be flexible and negotiate should you want the job offer.
18. It’s Not You, Really
Yes, sometimes it really isn’t your fault. You should not doing anything improper, you’re just not getting hired because of external aspects.
Internal qualified candidates are frequently hired over external ones. Nepotism and private favors still occur. A nasty labor market means there’s high unemployment and a lot of competition. You possibly can have specialized skills or are on the lookout for a singular role where there aren’t many opportunities. And sadly, discrimination remains to be a difficulty.
Unfortunately, there isn’t much you may do about any of these items. Just keep trying!
So Why Won’t Anyone Hire Me?
Although it is a pretty thorough list, there are countless possible explanation why nobody is hiring you, and it’s not nearly your qualifications.
All you may do is keep applying. Get help together with your resume and preparing for interviews. Grow your skillset. Try a unique approach. Correct any of the mistakes mentioned above you might be making. And hang in there! Your job is on the market!
Resume-Worthy Skills Employers Can’t Ignore
With a whole bunch of individuals applying for coveted positions, standing out in a competitive job market can feel inconceivable. So how will you ensure your resume doesn’t wander away within the shuffle? The reply lies in a single word: skills.
From in-demand technical proficiencies to sought-after soft skills, we’ve curated the definitive list of the highest 25 skills that employers simply can’t resist.
How To Answer Common Job Interview Questions
Congratulations on getting a job interview! If you happen to feel nervous about answering common interview questions, you’re not alone. Many job seekers struggle with knowing the way to respond clearly and confidently. It’s time to arrange for the massive day and be sure that you’re fully equipped to impress your potential employer. But where do you begin?
Here, we’ll guide you thru the way to answer among the most continuously asked interview questions.
Amanda Kay, the founding father of My Life, I Guess, provides priceless profession advice and support for anyone striving to make a living and, more importantly, make a life. Whether it’s navigating job searches, learning latest skills, overcoming unemployment, or coping with debt, My Life, I Guess has been a go-to resource for profession guidance and financial stability since 2013. Amanda’s expertise and relatable approach have been featured in trusted publications equivalent to MSN, Credit.com, Yahoo! Finance, the Ladders and Fairygodboss.
