Top Reasons you are not Getting Hired

1.       Your resume and cover letter

• First and foremost, check your resume. Make sure your resume is free from poor grammar or misspellings. Having someone else check your resume will give a fresh pair of eyes on your resume. Also, making sure your resume is targeted towards the desired position and includes keywords from the job description will allow your resume to stand out.
• Submitting a cover letter is sometimes considered more important than the resume. Including a resume that is strong and includes detailed descriptions of the job requirements will set you apart from a majority of applicants.

2.       Qualifications

• It is very important to read the job descriptions- and read them carefully. If a company finds it important enough to put it in the job description, it is probably an important aspect they are looking for. With that being said, it is okay to still apply for jobs that you don’t meet every requirement. There are some things that can be easily taught (e.g.: specific computer program) and there are things that can’t be compromised (e.g.: experience or education).
• It’s perfectly okay to call and ask the Human Resource department or hiring manager what is expected before applying. This could save you time from applying to a position that is not within your qualifications.

3.       Your past

•  And we don’t just mean your background check. Have you checked your credit score lately? How about touching base with your former employees to let them know they might be getting reference checks on you? A survey conducted in 2010 stated that 60% of companies conduct credit reports before hiring an individual. However, most employers will give the candidate the opportunity to explain themselves if a poor credit report comes in.
• Don’t assume that your former employee will give you a good reference. If you are expecting a future employee to call your references, give them a heads up. Let them know that someone will be calling and even send them a resume so your history aligns. Sending a previous employee will also help them when they get the call. Having your resume will give your former boss an idea on what highlights to touch on.

4.       Formality

• There is no question that technology has changed how business operate. With the advancement of technology, people have shied away from face to face contact. However, it is still important to write a thank-you card after an interview. This little act will be noticed and appreciated.

5.       You’re too picky

• If you have a specific salary in mind, you may be setting yourself up for failure. It is important to expand your options and keep your goals realistic. Everyone wants to bring home a large paycheck. However, it is important you keep your expectations in line with the job responsibilities and the company. You may not land that dream job out of college. Every position worth having is worth working hard for. Don’t be afraid to start low and work your way up.

6.       Your social profiles

• Believe it or not, employers do Google you. They check out your Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and whatever else you have in the virtual world. It is important to keep theses updated and clean. Your future boss doesn’t care to see 120 pictures of your girl’s trip to Vegas. Also, make sure your LinkedIn is up to date. Employers use LinkedIn to look at recommendations that are on your profile as well as the connections you may have. It is important to keep your social media sites clean and updated!

7.       Attitude

• Attitude in an interview is everything. Show enthusiasm and be humble. Even though you may be the perfect candidate for the position, coming off as arrogant or cocky can break the deal. However, it is important to show confidence. Being comfortable with what you are saying in an interview will really show that you are interested and qualified.

8.        

• Most employers will be upfront with what they are expecting to pay. If they don’t, it is important to know when it is the right time to bring it up. The first question you ask them probably shouldn’t be about the pay or the PTO you will receive. Always wait until the employer bring it up before discussing it. If the topic does arise, be honest about your salary history. Employers can verify your salary in a matter of minutes, so lying about your salary can also cost you your chances.

We hope these tips are helpful! It is a tough economy, but people are hiring. It is important to be confident and positive, but most of all, don’t give up. Now, more than ever, networking has been a huge part of employment.