Demystifying Common Job Search Fallacies

We have probably all heard the advice that a good resume should never be more than a single page, and the adage that “It never hurts” when thinking of applying to a job you know you are not qualified for. When you are job hunting, it seems like everyone has some advice to give.

However, some of the guidance you receive may be doing you more harm than good when it comes to procuring that new job. Such fallacies as the ones above have a way of hanging on even when they are not true. The following are some common misperceptions relative to searching for a job.

The one-page resume: This is perhaps the oldest myth around. Although it may have been true at some point, it no longer carries much validity. Hiring managers in today’s economy desire a complete picture of your abilities and expertise, and you may need more than one page to paint this picture for them. While you do not want your resume to be unnecessarily lengthy, you do want to give yourself plenty of space to present all your professional qualifications.

Cover letters: Many job applications today are submitted online or via e-mail, causing job searchers to feel the cover letter is obsolete. However, this is not the case. Most hiring managers like cover letters because they offer an introduction to who you are. As well, it gives you space to highlight a few items from your resume that could help solidify that you are the right candidate for the position. With many applicants foregoing a cover letter, providing a nicely written one can help you stand out from the crowd. An e-mail message can serve as your cover letter when submitting your application online.

Temporary work: If you need a permanent job, should you consider temporary positions? It could be a mistake to reject the idea of a temporary position. Although it is not the ideal offer, such jobs provide you the chance to earn an income, network within your field, and possibly even gain new skills to take with you to that permanent position. Some hiring managers view a temporary assignment as a trial run prior to offering a full-time opportunity.

Apply for as many jobs as possible: Applying for positions that you are not really interested in or qualified for is really just a waste of your time and the hiring manager’s time as well. Look for opportunities that match your skill set and interests, then tailor your resume to highlight those skills and experience that make you the best candidate for the position.

Take the first offer you get: With the current economic conditions, this is one myth that is at least partially true. Before rushing to take that first offer, though, take time to evaluate whether the position meets your long-term goals. You don’t want to potentially miss out on a job that is a better match for you by accepting a job too quickly.