How to land that interview

Getting a job interview could mean you’re one step closer to your dream job. There’s just one large hitch you’re not getting any calls or e-mails. It’s baffling; you’re pretty sure you have all the qualifications for that open position with exceptional skills and experience to boot. So why isn’t the phone ringing? Why is there no new e-mail from the company? What could be wrong?

1. You’re underqualified/overqualified. You just have to be realistic. No matter how perfect you think you are for the position, it’s possible that you simply don’t fit the job. If you have a doctorate degree and you’re applying for a secretarial position, you’re plainly overqualified. If the employer asks for five years experience in a specific area and you only have four ” that’s a year short! Every job has particular criteria that hiring managers use to determine which applicant to call for an interview. Be sure you look closely at the job description before submitting your resume.

2. You didn’t follow instructions. Companies have certain hiring policies and procedures. Make sure you abide by to what the prospective employers require every step of the way. If you don’t, your resume may never reach its intended destination, which is the hiring manager’s desk, and end up in the trash. (No wonder you’re not getting any calls!)

3. You’re not sending your resume to the best people. If you’re sending your resume and cover letter generally by e-mail or online job banks delivery services, and it doesn’t contain predetermined keywords, then they may not be opened by the hiring manager ” ever. The filtering system they will have in place can discard your resume as irrelevant. Take the chance and submit your resume correct to the top ” this means the C-Level Executives (CEO, COO, etc.) of the pertinent department. This winning strategy assures that your information has a higher chance of being perceived by human eyes and puts your resume right in front of the executives that you would be reporting to (if hired).

4. You’re not targeting the job position. Employers always appreciate a resume and cover letter specifically written for a job position in their company, rather than the generic and clichd ones that look like it’s been downloaded from a resume template sample. Don’t just use worn-out words such as hardworking, loyal employee or simply say, I’m a diligent and methodical person. Write why you’re the best person for the job and how you can address the company’s business needs.

5. You’re not following up. If you don’t go the extra mile to increase the odds of getting your resume found and considered, then you will be waiting for that call or e-mail forever ” it will never come. Some studies show that 86% of hiring managers don’t mind (some even expect it) if you contact them within two weeks after sending your resume and cover letter. This is frequently noticed as demonstrating your continued interest in the company and reasserting your goal to be considered for the job. A brief phone call or a short e-mail surely doesn’t cost you that much effort, does it?

With nearly double-digit unemployment rate, hundreds of applicants are most likely vying for the same job you’re seeking. Make that extra effort to avoid the loopholes and increase your chances of landing an interview. Change your resume from sloppy to interview-worthy ” it could be as simple as proofing it. Paying attention to the tiniest detail may just pay off and make that phone ring (or that e-mail arrive)!

Over the past 10 years, Karen has assisted thousands of job seekers by providing them with a resume that brought them the confidence and professionalism they needed to get an interview. Contact her today at www.theresumechick.com.