Anyone who has been through the process of searching for a job knows the emotional rollercoaster you instantly are hurled upon the second you start uploading your resume or filling out the 2-200 page online application. Whether you get multiple bites or radio silence, you’re sure to hit loops, steep drops, and a couple of corkscrews as you travel the road to your next job.
“We’re looking for someone with more experience.”
Needing experience before you have experience.
Is there anything more infuriating than hitting an interview out of the park only to be told you need more experience? How do you get more experience when you are just starting out in the workforce or haven’t been given the opportunity to gain it? This response is one of the more frustrating to receive, but one you can also grow from. If you really want a position, there’s always the ability to earn experience, whether it’s through internships, returnships, or even volunteer possibilities. So stick it out, find a way to gain that experience, and be willing to take the less than ideal position to do so.
“We’re looking for a one-page resume.”
Needing to jam all of your accolades and experience onto one 8 ½ x 11 sheet of paper.
They ask to know everything from A-to-Z, but unless you change the font to -4, how can you communicate it in a one-page document? It’s going to take a little more work on the front end, but try to match your qualifications to the job you’re applying for. This strategy might mean you have different resumes for different roles, but a customized resume puts your skills front and center amidst a sea of generalized resumes. Marketing in 2019 is more personalized than ever, and this means the same for you as you market yourself throughout the job process.
“We’re looking to finish up interviews this week and will be in touch.”
Needing to answer every common interview question known to man beside the ones you googled.
You knew exactly how you were going to communicate where you see yourself in five years, why you want the job, why you’re the best hire for the job, and the ever-popular, what your strengths and weaknesses are. Unfortunately, you weren’t prompted to answer with any of this information because those questions were never asked. Then before you know it, the interview is over. Try to drive yourself a little less crazy and make sure you know exactly when “we will be in touch” means. This way, you aren’t left guessing after what you thought might’ve been a less than ideal interview.
“We’re going in a different direction.”
Needing to keep your spirits up following rejection or multiple rejections.
This challenge is one of the biggest to get past. No one likes being rejected, and better yet, no one likes being rejected over and over and over again. This experience is all a part of job searching and doesn’t mean anything less of you and the qualifications you have. If you aren’t offered a job you were interested in, try your best to get some feedback from those who interviewed you. They might be able to provide some Intel and give you a fresh outlook on what you can bring to the table during your next interview.
The emotions you experience throughout the interview process can run the gamut. Try your best to stay level-headed, positive, and professional. No matter what, there will always be another rollercoaster ride to get on or off.
