Why Persistence Pays in A Job Search

In addition to being smart and strategic, you also have to be persistent when it comes to a job hunt.

Because you will probably get more rejections than acceptances, and because hiring managers can easily overlook your application, you need to be assertive and stick with it. If you have the various other elements of a job search taken care of, persistence will get results.

Have your house in order

Before you start doggedly chasing down leads and making cold calls, it’s important to make sure you can present yourself in the best light possible.

Being ready requires meticulously developing application materials, making sure they are professional, and putting an emphasis on details that make you a solid applicant for a position. Be sure to modify your resume and cover letter for each job application. If you don’t, it makes it easy for a hiring manager to pass you over.  Just reading a job description intently tailoring your resume to the description will allow you to stand out over other job seekers who use a one-size-fits-all approach.

You also have to research each business you apply to. Follow each business on LinkedIn, connect to people in your network who can tell you something about these employers and their workplace culture. It can also be useful to research competitors and subcontractors associated with each company. All of these steps can help you stand out from less-informed candidates.

The value of persistence

When you send in an application for a job, you must have a follow-up plan. Use a calendar to track the days when you will make calls to HR and check in on the status of your application. Even though you think you’re a shoo-in for a job, continue to network and gain valuable skills. Plan on searching for jobs until you actually accept one.

Persistence is particularly valuable when it comes to handling rejection. When you do get rejected, it often helps to disengage from the job seeking process. Taking a break from the grind a getting some regular exercise can help you relieve stress, relax and gain some perspective.

Don’t try to impress with your persistence

While persistence is extremely valuable to an effective job hunt, it isn’t something that hiring managers appreciate as a job skill. For instance, if you’re following up after an interview with an email every day – the person who gets them probably won’t be impressed by your persistence. They’ll probably be annoyed.

Unless you’re seeking a job in sales, companies aren’t on the lookout for applicants who jump out due to their persistence. They want to find the best applicants who show the strongest background, something your resume and cover letter should express.

Are you looking for the next step in your career?

At SMCI, we work help job seeker through the roughest part of their job search and support their efforts to find the best job opportunities for them. If you are currently looking to take the next step on your career path, please contact us today.