It’s easy to believe common misconceptions as proof when navigating the job market. Here’s a breakdown of some prevalent job-hunting myths and the realities behind them.
Myth: Applying online is all you need to do.
Reality: Online applications can get lost in a sea of submissions, so networking and targeted applications are essential. Combine online applications with active networking online (like LinkedIn) and offline (career fairs, industry events).
Myth: You need to know someone to get into a job.
Reality: Connections can certainly help get your foot in the door, but you still need to go through the application process and express interest through the proper channels. Start your cover letter by mentioning the referrer’s name and explaining how you know each other.
Myth: Cover letters are unnecessary.
Reality: Cover letters allow you to showcase your personality and explain why you’re a good fit. Many employers value them, whether they specifically request one or not.
Myth: Job hopping is always a negative.
Reality: While excessive short-term job changes can raise red flags, employers are increasingly aware of transitions. Demonstrating growth and acquired skills during job changes is a positive. Be prepared to explain those changes with a clear, positive narrative.
Myth: Your resume must be one page.
Reality: If you’re new to the working world, your resume may, indeed, be one page. But its length should depend on your experience. Focus on highlighting relevant skills, accomplishments, and contributions clearly and concisely.
Myth: Following up after an interview makes you seem annoying.
Reality: A polite thank-you note or follow-up email demonstrates your continued interest and professionalism. It’s standard practice and often expected by employers, so send a note within 24 hours of your interview.
EVALUATING JOB SITES
Whether you’re looking for a part-time summer job or your first “career” job after college graduation, job sites can offer a great starting point to see what open positions are out there. But not all job sites are created equal. And sometimes, the best place to look first isn’t a “traditional” job site at all.
Alison Vincent, Vice President of Operations at CollegeAdvisor, suggests starting with a professional association that specializes in the field you’re studying to go into. Here are a few examples of organizations you can join as an undergraduate or graduate student for a reduced membership fee (or even free):
National Society of Professional Engineers: Includes resources for current students and recent graduates, like a career center, job board, and resume writing assistance.
National Association of Social Workers: Includes a career center, job link database, and virtual career fairs.
Association of Performing Arts Professionals: Includes a job bank, podcast, and other resources.
National Art Education Association: Includes a career center with opportunities and other resources.
If you’re just looking for any part-time job, whether you’re in high school or want to work between college semesters and on breaks, check out industrial staffing agencies. They typically pay between $23 and $25 per hour, said Vincent. “And don’t be afraid to check with local companies that specialize in the field you’re interested in — they may have a lower-level job that’s appropriate, too.”
DIVERSITY
OF JOB SITES
Tons of job platforms post thousands of open positions every day. But, not all job sites are created equal, and Vincent said you may have more success applying directly on a specific company’s website rather than through its posting on Monster or Indeed. Here are some of the more popular websites.
Indeed’s long-standing presence (it’s been around since 2004) has solidified its reputation as a leading recruitment platform. It boasts an expansive database covering a broad spectrum of industries and job types, from full-time to remote and contract positions. This free job search engine offers features like resume reviews, immediate availability indicators, and customizable job alerts.
You can use tools like skills assessments, salary comparisons, and company reviews, which are accessible through the user-friendly interface and mobile app. The platform’s straightforward search engine-like interface and robust filtering options simplify the job search process, though it prioritizes function over flashy design.
DIVERSITY OF JOB SITES (CONT.)
Formerly called Beyond, Nexxt is a comprehensive job platform with a huge database and extensive network of partner sites catering to a wide range of industries and demographics, including veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, seniors, and women. Its user-friendly interface presents clear job descriptions, immediate application options, and salary snapshots for comparative analysis. You can explore related positions within the same company or similar roles.
Free registration allows you to upload your resume and salary expectation specifications; premium memberships include enhanced visibility through featured applicant status and prioritized resume placement. The platform’s main feed delivers relevant job openings and career advice, complemented by salary resources and a workplace-focused blog.
The premier professional networking platform LinkedIn integrates social networking and educational resources and boasts a user base of 750,000,000+. This vast network facilitates professional connections and company research, allowing you to explore potential employers and identify existing connections.
Vincent said, “Once you eliminate the clutter, look for professionals in your industry with slightly more experience than you and follow their pathway. It’s perfect because with LinkedIn, you can see their employment and educational history. If they’re where you want to be, follow their career path.”
Beyond its social features, LinkedIn offers a robust job search experience with extensive listings and granular filtering options, including contract type, location, industry, and salary. Job listings provide insights into applicant numbers and existing connections, and the Easy Apply feature streamlines the application process. User profiles function as dynamic resumes, enhancing employer visibility. LinkedIn also provides assessment tests, resume-building tools, interview preparation assistance, and networking groups.
While basic job search functionality is free, LinkedIn Premium Career unlocks advanced features such as enhanced job listings, detailed salary data, competitor analysis, and featured applicant status. Although its interface appears dated, LinkedIn’s comprehensive features and networking capabilities make it an indispensable tool for job seekers and professionals.
ONLINE JOB FAIRS
Online job fairs have become increasingly popular, offering advantages for college students and recent graduates. You can participate from anywhere, eliminating geographical barriers and travel costs while broadening the potential employers and job opportunities.
Online platforms often streamline the process, connecting you quickly with multiple companies, and you can easily share your portfolio and resume electronically. Likewise, the employers can share digital resources, such as videos, presentations, and company brochures, to provide more in-depth information, or hold webinars and Q&A sessions offering valuable insights into company culture and job requirements.
Virtual platforms can also facilitate connections with employers and industry professionals who might not be accessible at in-person events. Check for online chat rooms and networking lounges where you can “meet” and interact with other job seekers and employers.
Finally, you might find online interactions less intimidating than in-person networking, leading to more relaxed and productive conversations. This format may be particularly beneficial for those who experience social anxiety.
If you register for an online job fair, keep the following tips in mind:
1. Prepare your digital presence: Update your LinkedIn profile and online resume. Create a digital portfolio or website to showcase your skills and projects.
2. Research participating employers: Before the event, research the companies you’re interested in. Prepare thoughtful questions to demonstrate your knowledge and interest.
3. Test your technology: Ensure your internet connection, webcam, and microphone work. Familiarize yourself with the online platform the event will use.
4. Dress professionally: Even though you’re virtual, dress as if you were attending an in-person event to show respect and professionalism.
5. Practice your elevator pitch: Prepare a concise and compelling introduction highlighting your skills and career goals. Practice delivering your pitch confidently and clearly.
6. Engage actively: Participate in online chat rooms, webinars, and Q&A sessions. Ask questions and engage in meaningful conversations with recruiters.
7. Take notes: During the event, note which companies and recruiters you speak with to help you remember important details and personalize your follow-up.
8. Follow-up: After the event, send thank-you emails to the recruiters you connected with. Follow up on any job leads or opportunities that arose during the fair.
HOW TO APPLY
You’ve found the job that’s perfect for you right now. The application process will differ depending on your approach, but here are a few things to remember regardless of whether you apply online via a career database, the company website, or in person.
Pro tip #1: When you can, it’s most effective to apply directly through the company website because recruiters may not always have authorization to work for a company, said Vincent. “On the flip side, you may have good luck getting into a position if you work with a local staffing agency,” she said. “Many collaborate with companies to find and hire temporary employees for a 90-day trial period before offering them permanent, full-time employment. Staffing agencies are also a good bet if you’re looking for a summer job.”
Pro tip #2: Create a separate email address specifically for job searching. Use some combination of your name (e.g., J.Smith@email.com). Include it on your resume and cover letter’s header.
DECODING THE JOB DESCRIPTION
You may need to tweak your resume, and you definitely want to include a cover letter. Look at the job description and reverse engineer it so you know exactly what you need to highlight and can tailor your message to the audience.
1. Thoroughly read and analyze the job description. Identify key responsibilities, primary duties, and tasks. Pay attention to verbs like “manage,” “develop,” or “analyze” that indicate required actions.
2. Identify required hard skills (e.g., programming languages, software proficiency) and soft skills (e.g., communication, teamwork, project management). Look for specific educational requirements, certifications, or years of experience.
3. Note the language used to describe the company and its work environment. Identify keywords that suggest company values, like “innovative,” “collaborative,” or “fast-paced.”
4. Understand the “must-haves” vs. the “nice-to-haves,” distinguishing between essential requirements and preferred qualifications. Prioritize addressing the “must-haves” in your application.
5. Create a list of keywords and phrases from the job description, including job titles, technical skills, industry-specific terms, soft skills, and company values. Tools like WordClouds or online keyword extractors can help you identify frequently used terms.
PREPARATION
Whether you apply in person or online, you can take steps to make a positive first impression with the hiring manager or human resources professional scanning the applications.
1. Proofread. Then proofread again. Nothing will damage your credibility more than sending docs that aren’t perfectly flawless. Pay attention to spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Use Grammarly or another similar program to help you catch any mistakes. If you struggle with how to word your sentences, use an app like Hemingway to help tweak and improve them.
Keep formatting consistent, with uniform fonts, spacing, and styles on your resume and cover letter. Verify that your contact information and other details are accurate.
2. Be concise. If you’re applying in person and have a chance to meet and talk to someone, be yourself and focus on expressing genuine interest in the position, answering questions thoughtfully, and staying on track.
3. Stay professional. If you apply in person, dress for the role you’re applying for. Do a little research if you’re unsure what to wear — it could be business casual or more formal. You can also call or email before your visit to tell the manager or HR you plan to stop by.
4. Respect the hiring manager’s time. Avoid excessive contact, like calling or emailing multiple times a day. Show respect for the hiring manager’s busy schedule. You can consider a brief, polite phone call or follow-up email to reiterate your interest after 48 hours. If you don’t receive a response to your application after a week, you can also reach out to HR.
APPLY IN PERSON
Applying for jobs online has become the norm, but what if you tried something different? Showing up in person can give you a serious edge. It’s a way to make a memorable impression and show real ambition. When you meet a hiring manager face-to-face, you’re not just a resume among a sea of other resumes. You’re a person.
This approach may be especially effective for smaller companies, as you’re more likely to interact directly with hiring decision-makers. Plus, you may even get an immediate interview in industries with high turnover, like hospitality and healthcare.
If you’re looking for a part-time summer or weekend job that doesn’t necessarily need to align with your future career, like a retail job, it doesn’t hurt to go to the store in person and hand-deliver your resume. Some companies may ask you to apply online, but that initial contact can set you apart from other applicants.
APPLY ONLINE
While the personal touch of an in-person application has merit, online applications are often a strategic move, especially for specific career paths. Some employers, including larger companies or those with specialized roles, ask explicitly for online submissions. For example, public sector jobs like government and education almost exclusively use online platforms, often with automated scoring systems to “rank” resumes.
Another advantage of online applications? You can cast a wider net, reaching opportunities beyond your immediate geographic area — essential if you’re not local to the industry in which you want to work or you want to relocate. Companies requesting applicants to submit their materials online often use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes, so tailor your application with relevant keywords.
ALWAYS INCLUDE A COVER LETTER
One of the biggest attractions of job platforms is the “quick apply” option offered in some listings. If you’ve created an account and uploaded your resume, all you have to do is hit that quick apply button, and you’re good to go!
If you choose Quick Apply, you may not have the option to submit a cover letter. Vincent said that when hiring managers receive resumes from various sources — including company websites where applicants are more likely to include a cover letter with their resume — the hiring manager may narrow the applicant pool by eliminating resumes submitted without a cover letter.
BONUS:
SIMPLE WAYS TO ORGANIZE YOUR JOB SEARCH
1. Define your goals.
Before you begin your search, it’s helpful to get a solid idea of what kind of job you want and what you expect from it, both short- and long-term. This step helps focus and makes your search more manageable. As you narrow your list, consider how well each job fits your professional skills, expectations, and career goals.
2. Create a spreadsheet.
Keep track of your job applications with a Google Sheet, Excel, or pen and paper. Include the following elements:
• Company name
• Company information
• Where you found the job listing
• Contact person’s name and department or title
• Contact information
• Date you applied
• Application method (online job engine, company website)
• Status (Have you heard back? Have an interview? etc.)
• Follow-up (Did you send a thank-you after your interview?)
• Job rating (Your preference for this job on a scale of 1-10)
3. Create a schedule.
Job hunting can become a full-time job, and if you’ve got other responsibilities like school, extracurriculars, or family obligations, it’s easy for it to slip lower on your priorities. Calculate how much time you want to spend job hunting and use a calendar to map out what you need to do (update resume/create a company list/practice interview skills, etc.) and how much time each task requires.
4. Set an application goal.
How many jobs you apply to is up to you. But remember, each job should get a personalized cover letter, and while you can start with a basic template letter, filling in the specifics takes time. The law of averages suggests that the more jobs you apply to, the more interview requests you get — but that depends on the quality of the jobs and how good a match you are for the role. Pick jobs most closely aligned with your skills, experience, and short- or long-term goals to increase your chances.
BONUS: (CONT.)
SIMPLE WAYS TO ORGANIZE YOUR JOB SEARCH
5. Optimize your resume. Your resume isn’t a static document. It evolves as you gain experience or develop your skills. You may find that job applications include “must-haves” that you forgot to include in an earlier version, so don’t be afraid to adjust as needed.
6. Research companies and industries.
Identifying the companies you’d love to work for is a smart strategy for organizing your job search. It helps you keep your attention on a targeted list of organizations. Research their culture and background so you can personalize your applications and do well in interviews. But don’t just limit yourself to those companies. Use them as a measuring stick when you’re checking out other opportunities.
7. Track actions and progress.
Keep track of key numbers to see where you can fine-tune your search. Consider monitoring metrics like new contacts you’ve made each week, number of applications you’ve sent, new companies you’ve identified as potential fits, new leads you’ve uncovered, follow-ups you’ve taken, and number of interviews you’ve landed.
