The Myth of the Numbers Game
Today, I’m diving into a big myth that's been floating around for far too long.
It’s this widespread belief that if you throw enough job applications out there, one is bound to stick. The job market doesn't work like that. At least not anymore, if it ever did. Early in my career, I fell for this numbers game trap, too. I sent out hundreds of applications, thinking one has to hit. After weeks of radio silence, I realized something wasn't adding up. Maybe you've been there too, staying up late, scrolling through job boards, hitting apply on any position even remotely interesting, only to be met with silence. It's frustrating and disheartening. Let’s bust this myth wide open.
Quality Beats Quantity
Recruiters can tell when you're sending out generic applications. And they're not impressed. A recruiter seeing the same generic resume over and over again doesn't feel like reaching out, especially when they have 800 applications.
When you apply en masse you're spreading yourself thin. Instead of focusing on a few roles that really align with your skills and passions, you're just throwing spaghetti at the wall, seeing what sticks. And missing the mark completely most of the time.
It's not about quantity, it's about quality.
Let me tell you about one of my clients. Sarah was stuck in the numbers game, sending out over 200 applications a week. And getting nothing but crickets in return. After several months, she was frustrated, exhausted, and defeated. We picked just five jobs that really spoke to her. We rewrote her resume, tailored every word of her cover letter, and she started networking with people at those companies. Within a couple of weeks, she had three interviews lined up and ended up with two job offers after an entire year of crickets.
Quality beats quantity.
Moving away from the numbers game mentality can be tough. It's scary to put all your eggs in just a few baskets. But when you focus on quality, you're not just increasing your chances of landing a job, you're also setting yourself up for long-term success. Would you rather settle for the first position to come along, or get an offer for a job that excites you, where you can grow and thrive?
So What Should You Be Doing Instead?
Step 1: Do Your Homework
Dig into the companies that excite you. What are they all about? What do they care about? What's their mission? Check out their recent news. Are they growing? Launching new products? Expanding into new markets?
These things will give you clues about whether this company is the right place for you. Do you see yourself fitting in? Do their goals match yours? Can you see yourself thriving?
This step is crucial. When you show a company that you understand who they are and what they're looking for, you're not just another resume in the pile. You're the candidate they want to talk to.
Here's an example. If you're applying to a company that's all about innovation and pushing boundaries, highlight experiences where you've been a part of innovative projects. Maybe you spearheaded a new initiative or were part of a team that came up with a creative solution to a tough problem. Show them you're ready to bring that same energy to their team.
Step 2: Tailor Everything
Many people think they've tailored things when they’ve just changed out a title on their summary.
Tailoring means customizing your resume and cover letter for each application, highlighting the skills and experience that are most relevant to the job. You're showing the recruiter that you're not just another applicant, you're the right applicant.
Let's say you're applying for a marketing position. Show them how your experience aligns. If they're looking for someone with social media expertise, don’t just say I have social media experience but talk about growing your previous company's social media following by 200 percent in six months. If they're focused on brand development, share a story about leading a rebranding project that resulted in a 15 percent increase in brand recognition.
Make it clear that you're not just qualified, you're exactly who they need.
Step 3: Work Your Network
It's not what you know, but who you know. There's definitely some truth to that. If you're not already taking time to network and maintain relationships, it's time to start.
When teams are hiring, the first thing they ask is, who do we know that might be a good fit?
Referrals always take priority, because hiring managers feel these candidates have been vetted and are strong candidates – even if the person referring the candidate doesn't know them personally.
Wait, what? People refer people they don't really know? Absolutely. Because a lot of companies offer incentives like referral bonuses to encourage employees to refer friends.
So don't be afraid to reach out to connections and make new ones on LinkedIn. If you see a job posting that excites you, see if you have any connections at that company. Shoot them a message and ask if they'd be willing to put in a good word for you. Ask if the company offers referral bonuses and see if they can provide you with a link, or if it would be okay for you to include their name in your application.
A networking reminder: Don't just ask for favors. Build genuine relationships. Comment on their posts. Share interesting articles. Just check in from time to time. Networking is about building a community of professionals who support one another. And if you do it correctly, your network could pay you dividends for years to come.
Let's put this 3-step process into practice.
Think about a job you've applied for recently, or one that you're considering applying for.
First, do your homework. Spend 10 to 15 minutes researching the company. Look at their website, read their latest news, check out their social media. What stands out? What excites you about the company? Jot down notes.
Next, take a look at your resume and cover letter. Are they tailored to this job? If not, take a few minutes to tweak them. Highlight the experiences most relevant to the role and make sure your cover letter tells a compelling story about why you're a great fit.
Look at the job description, specifically the requirements. That's what's most important and what they're really looking for. If there's a specific skill or tool they call out, make sure it is on your resume and highlighted in your cover letter.
Now let's think about your network. Do you know anyone at this company? If not, is there someone in your network who could introduce you to someone there? Send a quick message, tell them you're interested in their role, and ask if they'd be willing to help you out.
After this exercise, you'll have a much stronger application and be one step closer to landing a job that excites you.
How would it feel to land a job that you're genuinely excited about rather than just another paycheck? That's the difference this strategy can make.
Remember, it's not about how many jobs you apply to, but how well you apply to them.
Until next time, keep believing in yourself and your potential. You've got this.
Let’s Make This Official!
Download my free LinkedIn launchpad checklist HERE.
Subscribe to my podcast, Hire Me Pls, where I'm pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in today's job market. What worked in the past won't cut it anymore, so I'm bringing you myth-busting episodes, debunking bad advice, and giving you actionable steps to move forward.
And if you're ready to take things further and say hello to a career that makes you excited for Mondays, book a 30-minute free career strategy call with me.
XO Gemma
Navigating the Modern Job Market: Insights from a Career Coach
Why am I getting ghosted? Why am I getting instantly rejected? Why isn't my resume getting attention? I can't seem to get any calls back for these interviews that I'm trying to get. What am I missing? What's wrong with me?
If you've ever felt stuck, burnt out, or disillusioned with your career, you're in the right place. In this post, I’m delving into the reasons why so many professionals feel unfulfilled in their jobs and providing actionable advice to help you begin to find clarity and excitement in your career.
I've seen the toll that unfulfilling careers can take on people. And I've worked with countless professionals who felt trapped in their jobs, completely burnt out. They were disillusioned. They were discouraged. They were lacking confidence.
I care because I've been there. I remember sitting in my car, gripping the steering wheel. I was white-knuckling it and telling myself affirmations, trying to pull myself together, wiping tears from my face, trying to fan myself, and deep breathing while dreading another day of meetings and forced interactions with my manager (who, honestly, was probably the reason why I hated my job).
I just felt like work was draining my soul. I would ask myself, is this really what my life is going to be like? Oh my gosh. Just going through the motions, trying to get through the day and wishing for the weekends. And that was my wake-up call. I was wishing my life away.
My Personal Journey
I've been in the recruiting and hiring game for almost 15 years now, and I just hit my three-year anniversary of being a corporate dropout. I started my own staffing agency after a decade of corporate recruiting in healthcare, higher education, tech SaaS, and digital marketing.
I've hired hundreds of people, I've interviewed thousands of candidates, and I've partnered with and trained everyone from hiring managers to the C-suite and CEOs on inclusive interview practices, workforce planning, and talent management.
Throughout this journey, I really learned that authenticity, integrity, and passion are so crucial in one's career. But let me tell you, I didn't always have it figured out. I've been there. I've been burnt out. I've doubted myself, and I felt that nagging urge for something more fulfilling, something with purpose.
I realized that I had the power to create the career that I wanted, and now I'm here to help you do the same.
The Power of Career Clarity
I want you to ask yourself right now – and pay attention to how you feel or any emotions or thoughts that come up – how do you feel about your current job?
Does it make you feel excited to get out of bed? Or are you hitting the snooze button, like, that's your job?
Now, be honest. What was your initial reaction? What was the immediate thought that passed through your mind when I asked those questions?
Think about it. What would your dream career look like if there were no limits?
When you find career clarity and fulfillment, it is a total game changer. Suddenly, you're waking up with purpose. You're excited. You've got energy. You're motivated to tackle challenges head-on. You're ready to grab opportunities by the horns.
Imagine that you start to feel more confident, more in control of your career. And most importantly, when you have a career that is fulfilling and really focused on your values and your passions and your strengths, then you're living a life that's true to who you are.
Creating a Ripple Effect
When you're thriving, the people around you feel the impact, too. Your family, your friends, your colleagues, everyone will notice these positive changes, and you will become a source and inspiration and support for them. And your relationships will get better because you'll have the energy and the mindset to nurture them.
When more of us have career fulfillment, we also start shifting workplace culture. We challenge the status quo. We demand environments that respect us, that nurture our talents and our passions, and we create a ripple effect that encourages others to seek fulfillment and integrity in their careers.
Together, we can transform the corporate world into a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
What kind of a workplace do you want to help create? What kind of a workplace do you want to be involved in that you want to build for others?
In upcoming posts, we'll dive into practical tips, inspiring stories, and expert insights to help you find the career fulfillment that you deserve.
If this resonates with you,
Download my free LinkedIn launchpad checklist HERE.
Subscribe to my podcast, Hire Me Pls, where I'm pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in today's job market. What worked in the past won't cut it anymore, so I'm bringing you myth-busting episodes, debunking bad advice, and giving you actionable steps to move forward.
And if you're ready to take things further and say hello to a career that makes you excited for Mondays, book a 30-minute free career strategy call with me.
Until next time, remember, you have the power to transform your career and your life. Let's make it happen.
XO Gemma
Is Career Coaching Worth It?
Career coach discussing job search strategies with a client.
Today, I want to explore a topic that often comes up in conversations about professional growth: Is career coaching worth it? This question touches on many common concerns and misconceptions about career coaching, providing insights that are particularly relevant to my audience.
Why Consider Career Coaching?
We often don’t know the value of something until we try it, and career coaching is no exception. If you've been struggling with your job search for months without success, it might be time to consider a different approach. Career coaching can provide you with the tools, strategies, and support you need to navigate the job market more effectively.
The Value of Time and Strategy
One of the most significant points about career coaching is the emphasis on time management and strategy. Many job seekers spend countless hours applying for jobs without a clear plan. This can be incredibly frustrating and inefficient. Career coaching can help you streamline your efforts by focusing on targeted job applications and effective strategies, saving you valuable time.
Personal Experience: The Importance of Strategy
Reflecting on my own experience, I remember the time when I moved across the country and applied for various jobs without a clear strategy. This scattergun approach was exhausting and often led to dead ends. A career coach can help you avoid this by providing a structured and strategic approach to your job search, ensuring you are putting your best foot forward with each application.
The Role of a Good Career Coach
Not all career coaches are created equal. A good career coach will have up-to-date knowledge of hiring practices, real-world experience, and a collaborative approach. They will work with you to tailor your resume and job search strategies to fit your specific goals and the current job market. This personalized guidance can make a significant difference in your job search success.
Why It Matters for You
For early to mid-career professional women of color in corporate roles, career coaching can be particularly beneficial. If you feel stuck in an unfulfilling job or are struggling to navigate corporate politics, a career coach can provide you with the insights and strategies to overcome these challenges. They can help you identify and articulate your unique value, positioning you for roles that align with your passions and career goals.
Personal Insights
From my experience as a recruiter and career coach, I’ve seen firsthand how a lack of strategy can hinder job seekers and how modern, tailored approaches can make a significant difference. My own journey of navigating career transitions highlights the necessity of a focused and informed approach. Additionally, the emphasis on collaboration in resume writing is a method I strongly advocate. A resume should be a clear, concise reflection of your skills and goals, crafted with the reader in mind.
My Final Thoughts
So, is career coaching worth it? Absolutely, with the right coach. Investing in career coaching can provide you with the strategies, support, and confidence needed to navigate the job market more effectively and achieve your career goals. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in your job search, consider reaching out to a professional for guidance. It could be the game-changer you need.
I encourage you to reflect on how a strategic approach to job searching might benefit you. Share your thoughts in the comments – have you worked with a career coach before? What was your experience like? Let's discuss!