The Resume Black Hole And How To Avoid It

"I believe that people make their own luck by great preparation and good strategy." Jack Canfield

What is the Resume Black Hole? According to my research, it is a term used since the great depression of 2008.  However, many candidates today are experiencing the same effect of not getting a proper response after applying for a position.  And, on the other side of the coin, employers are missing out on qualified candidates with a lengthy Applicant Tracking System process.  Today I will share with you tips on how to avoid the Resume Black Hole trap.

Coming from the staffing industry, it is my experience to see countless resumes coming in on a daily basis. I was fortunate to work for companies that managed the interviewing process with experienced recruiters.  Having the right ATS and a strong recruiting team made the hiring process manageable.

However, now looking from the outside I can analyze how frustrating it must be to send countless resumes to different companies including staffing agencies and not getting any calls.  That is why I decided to do some research and help both the companies and the candidates have a different outlook on handling the hiring process.

Below I will share with you my recommendations for both the employers and candidates.

Employers:

How to avoid losing qualified candidates that apply:

• Take a look at your process, is it too lengthy? Consider trimming your application questions to gather the necessary information upfront. 

• Engaging in today’s era is critical.  Instead of an automated, we received your resume, consider sending the next steps in the hiring process. Let the candidate know what to expect. 

• Technology is the best tool we have, and to maximize the interaction with your interested candidates, activate the social media features in your ATS.  The social media feature goes hand in hand with engagement; it is a tool that many are not using.

Candidates:

How to maximize your callback ratio when applying online:

• The obvious sometimes is overlooked, proofread your resume. Something as simple as a typo can get your resume set aside or tossed out.  

• Simplicity is vital, do not add logos, graphics or artistic fonts.  It might seem like the best way to stand out. However, the ATS might not recognize the format and not put you through the system.

• Keywords are essential; the tracking systems function is to match different keywords to the job description.  Use keywords that are relevant to your skills.

In summary, there is no reason to feel overwhelmed when relying on the applicant tracking systems.  The resume black hole is a term that many today are using, but with proper preparation from both the employer and candidates perspective, the experience can improve.  Contact me today for a Career Coaching Session. Have a fantastic day.

To Your Success,

Coach Barb

Certified Career Coach

Are you currently struggling with the resume black hole?