The modern realities of job search

Not so long ago, all you needed was to scratch together a solid resume and a cover letter and apply through your network, or send a hard copy of your resume to the employer that advertised in the newspaper.

In 2015, the recruitment landscape has changed dramatically and in this article, I’m going to share a few tips, so you avoid the major pitfalls of the modern job search.

Applicant Tracking Systems

The Applicant Tracking System (ATS), is a candidate management system, which is basically a software application designed to help organisations recruit more effectively. The reason organisations use ATS, is they are inundated with job applications, so it is an effective system for employers to post job openings on a corporate website, or job search site and screen resumes and general interview requests.

What you need to do:

If you apply for jobs online and your resume lands up in an Applicant Tracking System, then unless your resume is ATS friendly, your resume won’t even get ‘eye balled’ by HR. To avoid this: 

• Make sure your resume contains key words, so the system can determine the fit between your resume and the job description (but don’t stuff your resume with key words).
• Never, ever send your resume as a PDF, as many APS can’t read PDF files.
• Don’t include tables or graphics, as like PD files, APS can’t read the content and make a match.

LinkedIn

Recruiters, headhunters and employers all look to LinkedIn to find talent. ‘Recruiter’, is the recruiting tool utilised and is powered by keyword searches (just like Google).

What you need to do:

The first priority is to make sure your LinkedIn is complete, or rather has an All Star Status, otherwise, recruiters won’t be able to find you (The All-Star is this status will appear on your profile home page).

In order to get a 100% profile, make sure you complete all the following items:

• An up-to-date current position, with description
• Two past positions
• Education
• Your skills (minimum of 3)
• Your industry and location
• A profile photo
• And have at least 50 connections

Google Search

At some point during the job search process, the majority of recruiters and hiring mangers will be typing your name into Google or perhaps Bing. What are the consequences of this for you?

If unfavourable information is found about you, then it is highly likely that your application will be rejected. Remember if you put it out on the web and it’s not password protected, employers/recruiters can find this information.

What you need to do:

Make sure all of your online content is appropriate, or locked down (this is especially true for your Facebook page).