Job hunting is no easy task, and each person you talk to will have their own advice for landing the ideal job. Of course, even the best-intentioned friends and families might offer advice that can sometimes even cloud your path toward success because it could be mere misconceptions about job hunting.
Navigating the job market is as challenging as it is already, and the last thing you want to do is find yourself embroiled in myths about job hunting that can hinder your road forward. So, if you’re just entering the workforce, are a recent graduate, or are simply looking to change careers, read on to understand some common misconceptions about job hunting so you can follow the right advice in your search.
Myth #1
If You Don’t Take the First Job Offer, You May Not Get Another
If you’re offered a role, you should only accept if you’re happy with it, not because you’re afraid you won’t land another. If you pass up on one job, plenty more are out there. So, don’t accept a position simply for the sake of having a job, and be confident that you’re making the best career choice.
Even if you desperately need a job, don’t settle for anything less than the best. You can pick up freelance or side gigs to support yourself until you land the best one. Once a suitable offer is made, take some time to research the company before you accept the offer.
Myth #2
You Cannot Apply If You Don’t Meet Every Single Requirement
Think of job requirements as a wishlist for hiring managers. You don’t have to meet every single requirement to apply. It’s alright to push the envelope if you meet most of the requirements and are confident in your ability to adapt to the role. Employers look for people who have enthusiasm and willingness to grow.
Myth #3
A Cover Letter Is Not Necessary
Some people are quick to say that cover letters are a waste of effort because no one reads them, but this is far from the truth. Recruiters appreciate a thoughtful cover letter because it perfectly outlines your personality and gives context to your resume. If you overlook the importance of a cover letter, you’re missing out on getting a leg up on your competitors.
Myth #4
Company Hopping is a Red Flag
In today’s job market, job hopping is relatively common, and it can even continue to reflect a diverse skill set and an ability to adapt. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, employers are more open-minded about the modern job market and how career paths can sometimes be nonlinear. If you have switched jobs, be ready to explain your moves and address the gaps in your resume. Talk about how you utilized that gap to do contract or freelance work and built skills that have helped you to apply for your current role.
Myth #5
All You Need is a Perfect Resume
Of course, a well-written resume is a crucial factor in landing a job because it’s the foundation of your application. However, there is no such thing as a “perfect resume,” but you must ensure that your resume is professional, easy to read, and authentic.
Employers can quickly discover lies in resumes, so pay attention to the authenticity of your resume rather than perfection. It’s easy to obsess over the aesthetics of the resume when you should be focusing on curating it to the specific role you’re applying for. Ultimately, it’s not fancy font or styling that matters; the substance of your resume will make a mark.
Remember, your branding efforts and networking can be even more valuable than your resume. So make sure that your social media and LinkedIn Profile tell your story. At the same time, build relationships with key players in your industry by attending events and joining associations that can help develop your narrative.
Myth #6
Lower Your Salary Expectations
Lowering your salary expectations makes you appear desperate, less experienced, and less competitive than other applicants. Instead, research the market and the company to understand the salary range for the role you’re applying for and stick with it. Be confident in your worth, and employers are likely to follow suit!
Final Thoughts
The job market is undoubtedly competitive, but understanding the nuances of the hiring process will help you immensely in your job search. The rules around job hunting are never constant, and they will keep changing as industry standards get upgraded and technology progresses. So, focus on building your network, tailoring your application material, and highlighting your strengths to help you stand out from the rest of the crowd.
Most importantly, don’t fall prey to petty misconceptions that can jeopardize your way forward. Some people encourage others to send the hiring manager some chocolates or a pack of cookies along with the resume to earn some (literal) brownie points. However, while it may not seem so, it is professionally viewed as a bribe. If you do follow such advice, it can lead to an automatic disqualification, which is not what you want!
