Why Your Mass Apply Job Search Strategy Fails You was originally published on Firsthand.
Every day starts to run together. You log into your job boards through your phone or your laptop, then start your scroll-and-apply strategy. This approach to your job search might feel productive. After all, you're applying to dozens of jobs every week.
However, the job search isn't a numbers game. This mass apply approach is actually hurting your chances of finding your next job. By understanding better techniques, you can use your time in a more effective manner and find the perfect job.
These are the major pitfalls of your mass apply job search strategy:
You're being forgotten
Chances are, if you're applying to every job posting quickly, your application will be lost and forgotten. It's best to focus on impressing employers with a tailored, unique resume.
My company, JobsInSports, conducted a survey and found that nearly 60 percent of employers said they like to see an original or interactive resume from candidate.
Look for ways to make your resume stand out from the crowd, instead of sending your forgettable resume out to 100 companies. By doing research on specific companies you most want to apply to, you're better equipped to tailor your resume to fit the cultures and expectations of the organizations.
For example, if you're applying to a nonprofit that's focused on public land preservation, provide more detail about your volunteering experience with the state parks department. It shows that your personal values align with the values of the organization.
You're wasting time
When you crank out job application after job application, it's more likely that you'll make a mistake without realizing it. Employers, however, will notice these errors when they're reviewing your application. In fact, our survey also found that 39 percent of employers said the biggest communication deal breaker was typos and grammar errors.
Because you're not focusing on the quantity of applications you send out, you have more time to improve the quality. Review your resume and cover letter with close friends and family before submitting.
Also, use free tools like Grammarly or the Hemingway Editor to check your grammar. That extra care you put into how your express yourself and how you describe your qualifications and experience goes a long way.
You're a ghost
Spending hours applying to so many positions leaves you with little to no time to build your online presence. This makes it less likely that employers will find valuable information about you when they start researching. And they will research you.
In fact, according to our survey, 22 percent of employers say the first thing they do after they receive an application is search the person's name on a search engine. Spend time on online presence management practices, like personal SEO. This will guarantee you stand out by sharing your expertise with potential employers.
For example, start a blog that is professional and specific to your industry. If you want to work for a sports media company as a videographer, write blog articles about the latest videography trends and share personal projects.
You're left in the cold
No matter what industry you want to work in, your best chance of getting hired is through an employee reference. This is why your job search strategy needs to include networking.
As our survey found, 60 percent of employers say they give referred candidates more consideration than other candidates.
To put it simply, it doesn't matter how many applications you submit. Your time is better spent nurturing relationships with industry insiders. Knowing the right people will present you with opportunities and give you the emotional support you need during a stressful job search.
It's tempting to stick to the job search strategy you're comfortable with. And let's be honest — there are several major job search apps that make applying to jobs as easy as one click. But remember, you're one of the thousands of other eager job seekers clicking away.
You have a unique set of skills and qualifications, so start showing that. You're more than just another applicant, and it's up to you to get employers to take notice.
Karyn Mullins is the President at JobsInSports, the one place with all the tools, statistics, and information needed to connect job seekers with employers for sports employment openings at all levels. Follow JobsInSports on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
