May 21, 2019 | 5 min read
4 Reasons Why You Aren’t Getting Interviews

Catherine

Job searching can certainly be frustrating at times. This is especially true when you don’t get a call back for a job that you were excited about. But if you find that you consistently are not getting interviews, it might be time to do some self-reflection.

While there are certain factors that are out of your control, you do want to ensure that your application materials aren’t holding you back! Since they are often a first impression you will leave on a prospective employer, one simple misstep can prevent you from making it to the next stage of the process.

To help you pinpoint why you are not getting interviews, ask yourself if you are guilty of the following:

You didn’t follow the application instructions

Employers will typically have a list of instructions for applicants to follow, such as what materials to submit and what supporting documents to provide. To be sure you don’t make a foolish error, read the job description and application details carefully. Missing key instructions can immediately take you out of the running for the position.

Your files can’t be opened

Even if you properly follow all of the required guidelines, you won’t have much success if a hiring manager can’t see your application! Before sending in your materials, double check to make sure that all of your files open properly. On a related note, you will want to make sure the formatting of your materials doesn’t change if you’re converting a file. For example, saving a .DOC to a .PDF can alter the appearance of your resume if you aren’t careful. If you don’t take the time to double check the formatting, this can lead to your resume being added to the automatic ‘no’ pile.

You made careless typos

If you fail to ensure your resume, cover letter, and other application materials are free of any grammatical and spelling errors, it can be a major reason why you’re not getting interviews. Not only can this raise some red flags about your attention to detail, but it can also lead employers to believe you aren’t serious about the opportunity. To avoid this from happening, don’t be shy about asking a friend to review your resume and cover letter! They may be able to catch something that you may have missed!

Your online presence raises red flags

While companies are encouraged to have a strong online presence, job seekers should also pay special attention to their online brand. In today’s digital age, many companies will search for your social media profiles to determine whether to bring you in for an interview. As a result, be sure that there isn’t anything that might question your level of professionalism. Before you start your job search, be sure to comb through your social profiles and remove any content that could be deemed inappropriate.

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