Where are all the Jobs?: How to Escape the Job Application Black Hole

Monday, June 13, 2011

How to Escape the Job Application Black Hole | Career Rocketeer

How to Escape the Job Application Black Hole

Posted: 12 Jun 2011 03:30 AM PDT

You've been there before. You complete an online job application, click "Submit," and then the waiting game begins. All too often, the company doesn't even list an email address for follow-up, and it might be difficult to come by one through a simple Google search.
Many refer to this as the job application "black hole." And, sure, there are some valid excuses for this occurrence. For one, hiring managers and recruiters are busy and often inundated with resumes and applications, especially in a competitive job market. Or the company might have promoted from within and failed to take down the job ad. It's also possible that the recruiter might be more focused on filling the position (what they're paid for) by only engaging the best candidates.
Simply put, the process is broken. Employers and recruiters do not engage prospective candidates. Employers do not acknowledge prospective candidates, and fail to close the job search. This means you, the job seeker, need essentially to work harder to stand out in order to garner their attention. Here are a few ways to do so:
Follow instructions to the T. Each application will be slightly different, so resist the temptation to quickly fly through multiple apps that appear to be the same. If the company requests a specific format for your resume, make sure you're sending the correct one. If an email with attachments is preferred, don't include all of your text in the body of the email. It seems like common sense, but the desperation of needing a new job mixed with frustration of the search can make even the brightest candidates screw up simple instructions.
Only apply for positions you're truly qualified for. Don't spam employers with your resume and cover letter if you don't fit the description of the ideal candidate. If you're properly tailoring your resume and cover letter to the opening, it should be obvious whether or not you're qualified.
Make your resume ATS-friendly. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are often used as a screening tool in the hiring process and discount verb phrases, instead looking for nouns describing roles, titles, or responsibilities. For example, if you are searching for a manager-level role, "managed product marketing" might not be recognized, but "product marketing manager" will.
Get rid of the objective statement. Instead, provide a career summary section that can be read easily and quickly. Include those keywords that tie your experience into the job description!
Network within the organization. Knowing someone who already works for the company can help get your resume into the right hands and essentially refer you directly to the hiring manager. You'll be more likely to receive acknowledgement because of the personal connection you have to the organization.
Look for opportunities through existing networks. Many job seekers feel the "black hole" occurs through job boards—so look to other resources to find openings. Social and professional networking sites, search engines, aggregators and company career sites can be a valuable source of job openings.
Be proactive. Create a strong presence online and help employers find you. Build a personal website or online portfolio, engage in social and professional networking websites and groups within those sites, and pay attention to your search engine results.
How else can job seekers escape the infamous "black hole"?

Guest Expert:
Tony Morrison is the Vice President at Cachinko, a unique professional community where social networking and job opportunities come together. His roles include sales, marketing, and business development. He is passionate about building B2B and B2C client relationships and brings this passion to Cachinko where he focuses on helping job seekers to find their ideal job and employers to find, attract, and engage their next rock star candidates. Find him on Twitter and/or connect with Cachinko on Facebook or Twitter.