I keep applying for jobs but never get any interviews. What am I doing wrong

I keep applying for jobs but never get any interviews. What am I doing wrong I keep applying for jobs but never get any interviews. What am I doing wrong?Posted May 2, 2013, by Jo Messer I keep applying for jobs but never get any interviews. What am I doing wrong? Vivek, 24, accounting graduate If youre sending out applications but never getting interviews, there are a number of areas you need to look at. The good news is that once youve applied some simple strategies to your job hunt, you can greatly increase your chances of getting shortlisted. The first thing you need to look at is whether your skills and experience are aligned to the jobs youre applying for, because theres no point if youre not suitably qualified. You need to carefully review both the advertisement and the position description, and analyse the key selection criteria to ensure that you are well matched to the role. As a general rule of thumb, you should meet at least 80 per cent of the criteria. If one of the criteria states that you must have at least 3 years experience in a similar position, then this is what they want. If they ask for you to be a Registered Division 1 Nurse, then this qualification is essential to the role. It is also important to note the differences in language used in a job ad for example, knowledge of as opposed to experienced in. Highlight the key words in the ad to identify what the must haves are to do the job. The next thing to look at is your cover letter. A cover letter is the first document an employer reads, and if it isnt tailored specifically to the role then youre wasting your time applying. A cover letter isnt just about why you want the job its about what you can offer and why that particular organisation should employ you. It needs to show that youve done your research about the position and the organisation, that you are confident in your ability to do the job, and that you share their vision and values. Your resume also needs to be tweaked t o reflect the requirements of the position. Review the terminology used in the job ad and match this with the language in your resume. You want to make it as easy as possible for the employer to see that you fit what they are looking for. An employer will receive a large number of applications so you need to put the most relevant information on the first page of your resume. If a job ad asks you to respond to key selection criteria then you MUST address them. If you dont, your application will not be shortlisted. Prepare a separate document titled Responses to Key Selection Criteria and address each criterion individually. It is essential that you highlight your experiences and skills in relation to the criterion, using specific examples that are as relevant as possible. Employers want to see that you can follow instructions. Theres no point saying that you have strong attention to detail if you cant pay attention to the details in a job ad. If you are asked to submit a two-page r esume, this is what you should send them. If you are asked for two referees, then it is not appropriate to say referees available on request. And of course, pay attention to spelling and make sure you get the recruiters name right Jo Messer is a Career Development Specialist who has many years of experience in supporting and guiding students and graduates of some of Australias most respected universities, as well as mature-aged clients, across all facets of their career. She is a Professional Member of CDAA and an active member of NAGCAS. Whether you have a specific question about how to achieve your career goal or something more general, Jo is available to provide you with up-to-date advice. ResourcesMy first resumeCover letter for my first jobCareer Insider StoriesShelley Lask - Body Positive Health & FitnessInterested in becoming a?Human Resources OfficerGeneral ManagerBusiness ManagerAccountantOffice AdministratorPopular Career Searchesjob application advice to ring the contac t officersample job ad for police officerdiversional therapist job descriptionesl teacher interview questions and answersfitness instructor job advertisement CoursesBachelor of Social WorkEnquire verbunden Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Health AdministrationEnquire Online Enquire OnlineBachelor of Criminal JusticeEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Allied Health AssistanceEnquire Online Enquire OnlineJo MesserRelated ArticlesBrowse moreDream jobsWorkplace cultureDream employersIf you could work for any company, which one would it be, and why?CAREER ADVICEJob hunting tipsHow to Write a Resume Your Step-By-Step GuideWhat exactly is a resume? What are you meant to include on it? How do you set it out? Follow our tips and expert insights on the importance of a resume, and how to write one thatll leave a lasting impression.Career progressionGenerations in the workforce8 Career-Defining Moves To Make In Your 40sSmash it in the rush hour of life with these 8 career goals to t ick off in your 40s