There are two mistakes when applying for jobs. One is to apply to every job in sight, and the other is to apply for multiple positions within the company. Learning the reasons these are mistakes can keep an individual from wasting time and concentrating on the jobs that the individual really wants.
Applying for Multiple Jobs at the Same Time
Individuals who apply for multiple jobs at the same time on
job search sites tend to follow the same pattern. Because they are flooding the
job websites with multiple applications, they are not taking the time to
individualize job applications to show that they are qualified to fill
particular jobs. This is the reason why those who send out multiple
applications rarely hear back from recruiters. It is better to take the time to
research the company and rework a job application to fit the description of the
position.
Focus on Particular Jobs
The purpose of a resume is to sell the talents of a worker
to a company. The resume should show that the applicant has the credentials to
do a particular job and would be a good fit in the position and with the
company. A candidate whose resume is too generic will most likely have his or
her resume end up in the bottom of the pile.
Be Careful Where You Are Applying
Hiring managers or recruiters may post job ads on multiple
sites looking for the right match for a job. One mistake job applicants can
make is not noticing that they are applying for
the same position with the same company over and over. However, the recruiter
does notice and may think that the job applicant is sending out multiple
resumes without any discretion.
Don’t Apply for Nonexistent Jobs
Some people make the mistake of applying for jobs at
a company where none are available. After sending out possibly hundreds of
applications, it should be surprising when no responses are forthcoming. Apply
only to real job openings where the company is actively looking to fill a
position.
Applying for Multiple Jobs at the Same Company
This can be a big mistake. Recruiters see the job
applications as they come in, and an individual who applies for multiple
positions within the same company can come across as desperate and willing to
take any job. Applying for jobs in this way can end up with the recruiter
noting your desperation on your application file. In other words, this is a
good way to never get called in for an interview. Recruiters want individuals
who actually want particular jobs because they are more likely to stay in the
position.
How to Apply for Multiple Jobs at the Same Company
If a job seeker has an eye to work for a particular company,
there are ways to send multiple application, limited to two or three, and still
be considered, but it takes finesse to do so. The size of the company can make
a difference. A large company may employ multiple recruiters, and that can
increase the odds that the same individual will not spot multiple applications
from the same person. In addition, focusing only on jobs that are in the same
category and for which an individual is fully qualified can make a difference.
Getting Your Name Out There
Besides letting your friends and coworkers know that you are
job hunting, it can also be a good idea to use social media such as Facebook or
LinkedIn to promote yourself. Many recruiters now take a look at a job
applicant’s LinkedIn profile because it can contain much more job information
and history than a resume. No matter what an individual’s field of employment
is, using job search sites or a job search service can be enhanced by using
social media.
Applying for a job and getting a callback for an interview takes dedication and focusing on skills and credentials that apply to particular job descriptions. Just as knowing how to get considered for a job is important, so is using the right means to find that job.