7 Reasons You’re Not Getting an Interview

It can be frustrating submitting resumes only to receive the silent treatment from prospective employers. Know that you are not alone. Studies show that only 2% of job applicants actually get called in for an interview. You need to be in that 2%. 

There are reasons why you might not get called in for an interview. Have a look at the top seven reasons why you might not be getting an interview here.

How to Explain Gaps in Your Work History

Do you have gaps in your work history? If so, you are not alone. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 6 million Americans are unemployed. Many of these people will have to find a way to explain this gap in their work history, just like you. So, don’t think that having a gap in your work history will prevent you from landing the job you want.

The trick is to push prospective employers to look beyond your work history gap and see the potential you bring to the table.

Here are some tips for how to explain gaps in your work history. Click here for these tips.

Add a Personal Touch to Your Job Inquiry

Personal touches can be important determinants toward a hiring manager’s consideration of your application. Personalize the 30 Second Summary in the first section of your resume specifically towards the company and your qualificaions for the position.

A cover letter gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge about the company. You can mention some of your strengths and skills that will enable the company to achieve its mission, values, and current projects.

See more opportunities for personalization here.

Language Refinement for Cover Letters and Resumes

While resumes and cover letters address the same position,  the tone and character differ. In writing each, be sure you understand what the hiring manager expects.

Your purpose, tone, format, style, and content differ. When making decisions about what to include and where, be sure that all of these factors line up. 

Find some helpful guidelines here. 

Using Recruiters and Headhunters

You can go it alone or you can go commercial. As for the 'Commercial' route, a recruiter matches you up with his client's job list. A recruiter will likely coach you and get you ready for interviews. The recruiter is there to help you get the interview and the job! Typically this 'Headhunter' is paid by the company.

See seven aspects of using a Recruiter here.

Showcase Your Winning Personality

Likely your resume (or possibly a personal recommendation) got you an interview. While the resume presented the 'facts', the interview will present the 'you' that will hopefully be hired.  The interaction, the presentation of 'you' is key. In the interview it is yours to win or loose. You need to be yourself but a few hints to carry you forward can be beneficial.

See seven points on your personal presentation here.

Beat Those Interview Nerves

Interview nerves, if you don’t feel nervous, the chances are the position you’re going for isn’t that important to you. We get nervous about things because we care about them. In that way, nerves are good.

It’s easy to say, “Don’t worry, everyone gets nervous,” but if you’re in the midst of nerves, this phrase does not help. 

Stave off those shaky feelings with 7 tips here.