Getting an interview for a job you applied for online can be quite challenging. Not only are there many applicants competing for the same job, but there can also be hindrances like prejudices and inefficiencies in the recruitment process. But remember, certain things are within your control, and focusing on these can drastically improve your chances of landing a job.
Understanding the Realities of Job Hunting
Job hunting is a combination of factors, namely fate, effort, and negligence. Here’s what they mean:
- Fate: These are factors outside your control that can either help or hinder your chances of landing a job.
- Effort: These are actions you take that contribute to your success, such as tailoring your resume to match the job description, researching the company, and preparing for the interview.
- Negligence: This happens when you fail to take necessary actions, either out of ignorance, laziness, or other reasons.
Statistically, for any random job you apply for online, you have a 2% chance of getting an interview. Even if you have a perfect application, it only increases to about 5%. Hence, it is essential to focus on what you can control, and strive to perfect that so your chances can improve.
Job Hunting: What it Really Looks Like
Job hunting isn’t a linear process. The recruitment process is more like a pie chart, where most of it (around 95%) contains factors you can’t control, like the large number of applicants, biases, and other issues affecting the recruitment process.
Your part of the pie (around 5%) represents your control over the process. This is where your effort comes in. Putting in the maximum effort will increase your chances, but if you only put in half the effort, expect that your chances will also decrease proportionately.
Remember, too, that these percentages are just estimates. Some aspects of the job application process might make it harder or easier, and these should be taken into consideration, too. Check out the Employability Framework to improve your employability.
Manipulating Fate to Your Advantage
While there are aspects you can’t control in job hunting, there certainly are ways you can influence these in your favor.
- Be Selective: Carefully choose which jobs you apply for. The less competition, the better your chances. Filter out jobs on LinkedIn and other job platforms with fewer applicants.
- Build a Strong Network: A strong network can provide better job opportunities and increase your chances of getting hired. Keep connections good and develop a positive relationship with people you worked with.
- Achieve ‘Demigod’ Status: Reach a point in your field where you are known for your exceptional skills, and this can positively influence your chances of getting hired.
No matter the obstacles we face in job hunting, what’s important is focusing on the things we can control. Remember to submit high-quality applications and aim to be as good as we can possibly be. If you’re interested in getting into IT or cyber security, check out both of the courses that I offer. Both are structured to increase your employability and speed up your job hunting process.
Don’t forget to check out my Hands-On IT and Cybersecurity Courses to help you bridge the gap between just being skilled and actually landing a job!