We hear your frustration! You apply to a specific job online through a major national company website, and you never hear back from anyone. It stinks.
But we’re going to tell you how to make it better. Because they receive hundreds of applications every day, these companies have checks and balances set up in their software to pre-screen applications and resumes for keywords. Applicants whose information contain these keywords and therefore, meet prescreening are then sent off to a hiring manager. They–well, the computer –is looking for specific factors, so if your application and resume do not meet their requirements, you’re sent to the pit. That big dark hole where you won’t even receive a thank-you-for-applying note. More than likely the lack of keywords in your application and resume is why you are not being contacted.
In addition to networking in your industry, online job boards are the go-to place for your job search, especially in a niche market like the dental industry.
Here are some tips to help get you past technology.
1. Have a resume prepared for the specific job you’re applying for. Many people use a generic resume across the board when applying for jobs. Don’t do this. Study the ad and match the key words in the ad to your resume. This does take some time to do, but remember, finding a job is your full time job right now. Invest in yourself and take the time to complete this critical step.
2. Know the company you are applying to. Go to the company website and look at its mission statement. Check out its Facebook page and learn the company’s activities. Make connections through your application. Many times companies look for this link, and it assists them in choosing the right fit for their business.
3. Make every effort to seek out a contact at the company you’re applying for. Many times LinkedIn is a great source for this. Create a LinkedIn account if you don’t have one already, and learn how to market yourself. Networking on social media is key when seeking employment. Remember to have a professional photo on your LinkedIn profile. Pictures with your dog or at the beach with a beer are a huge no-no. Check out our previous blog about why you need LinkedIn for job hunting.
4. Follow-up. The key to success is the follow-up. Just because you apply on a large company website does not mean you can’t reach out with the follow-up. Go old school and contact hiring managers. Sometimes it takes some work to get their name, email and phone number, but your approach with them is a critical step. A follow up letter outlining why you want the job and what you can do for them allows a generation of interest in you. Tell them why they want you for the job. Want to really stand out? Handwrite your note and use snail mail instead of email!
Here’s the bottom line: You are creating a personal brand and marketing yourself to employers. Don’t let the online application process detour you or frustrate you. Follow the process and take the additional steps. Take control to prevent your application and resume from falling into that dark hole, and do everything you can to get recognized.
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