As a Job Search Trainer, I see many job seekers making a GIGANTIC mistake over and over. They make the mistake of ONLY applying online in their job search. Why is this a problem?
- A growing number of companies (not just large firms) are using Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that screen resumes out based on keywords that the HR recruiter selects
- Hundreds if not thousands of people could also be applying on-line and if you get through the ATS screening now you are in a pile with all the other candidates instead. that passed too. There is no differentiation between you and everyone else!!
What should you do instead? You should apply on-line AND find someone in the company to become an advocate for you and do an internal referral to HR instead. Ask any HR Recruiter or Manager if they prefer internal hires to unknown candidates that made it through their ATS. They will answer a resounding “ABSOLUTELY”. So, become an internal referral not an ATS refugee!
My name is Mark Lauterbach and I am a Job Search Architect and Success Strategist. I founded the Job Search Accelerator based on my 20 years’ experience helping others through their job search as well as having successfully navigated 7 job changes during my career. For 5 years, I also owned, ran and recruited daily at FPC of Fort Collins, a successful agency recruiting firm that I sold to one of my staff in 2013. I know how to plan and accelerate your job search success!
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I never thought about getting an internal referral from people at the companies I was applying to online (I know that sounds stupid, but it’s true). I have now done this 3 times successfully and have 2 interviews because of this. Thanks for teaching things that really work!!!
HR loves internal referrals. They move to the front of the line and get reviewed. Follow this process every time you apply for a position and it will dramatically increase your odds of getting an interview. Great job!
Excellent information. Most companies will always direct you to apply online. Doing a little research to find an employee within the company that will get your resume to the Hiring Manager for the position is quite a boost to your job search success. Thanks Mark!
You are absolutely right Sharon. Network inside the company and find the hiring manager. They are key to your success! Thanks for your comment.
I’m glad that you are sharing these very helpful tips on your blog because they are easy to understand and act on.
Thank you for your comment. Just implementing the things I suggest in my posts will help you achieve greater results!
Thank you for your feedback. I’m happy you are reading this and taking action. Little changes in your job search process can yield big results!
Wow! This is a great idea, in this hard times, I need all the leverage I can get. Thanks!
Thank you for your information. Your blog article has truly peaked my interest as a job seeker.