Improve Your Job Application ROI

Improve Your Job Application ROIImprove Your Job Application ROIBefore you hit the apply button, make sure the application is worth your time.As a career coach I often talk to job landseekers who are frustrated over the lack of response from employers.This phenomenon is commonly referred to as the Black Hole, and leaves most job seekers discouraged with no updates on their applications status and no feedback to help improve their future applications.While you cant control the recruiters actions, there are things you can do to combat the Black Hole and improve your applications return-on-investment.Take more timeA recent eye-tracking study conducted by Ladders found that the average job seeker only spends about a minute reviewing a job description before deciding if its worth an application. Lets face it applying to jobs can be a very tedious and time-consuming process, especially when each application is properly tailored. With that in mind, I encourage you to take a few extra minut es before you apply to carefully read the job description and assess the applications potential ROI.Consider the locationAre you within commutable distance of this opportunity? Or if youre in sales, do you have an established book of business in this area? If the lage requires relocation, let employers know in your cover letter that theres a good reason for the move. In other words, make it clear you didnt make this decision on a whim and that youre not an expensive flight risk.Focus on responsibilities requirementsRead the responsibilities and requirements sections of the job description carefully what skill sets, education level and years of experience do they require? While the employer probably doesnt expect you to have every single qualification, they do expect you to meet all the core must-have requirements. Only apply to jobs where you possess these must-haves. Remember, job titles often carry different meanings depending on the organization and its industry, so the respons ibilities and requirements are a better indication of the level of the role (and its budgeted salary).Identify the industryHave you worked in the same or a very similar industry within the past 3-6 years? Not every position requires industry-specific experience however, possessing this background is often more attractive to employers. If you dont have relevant industry experience, be ready to highlight your transferable skills in your resume and cover letter. If youre looking for a change, research your former colleagues to see where else their experience was accepted.Tailor your applicationsEdit your resume and cover letter so that your job goals and qualifications are obvious. Incorporate key terms from your targeted jobs requirements into your resume to make it past the electronic gatekeeper. Test your applications readability by handing it over to a friend with a copy of the job description. If your friend has trouble identifying your qualifications, then you know its not clear enough. If you need help, seek out a resume expert.Check your networkMap out your personal and professional network so you can easily research connections between your contacts. Before you apply to a job, check to see if you know anyone who currently works at the company and seek their endorsement. Studies have shown you are ten times more likely to land an interview when your application is accompanied by an employee referral.