Demystifying the Job Search: Dispelling Common Myths

Job searching can feel like navigating a labyrinth of advice, with roads marked by myths that often lead nowhere. Inspired by Clint Eastwood’s classic 1966 film The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly—we agree that the world of job search advice ranges from the very good to the horribly ugly

Here is what you need to know …

The Good = Reliable Advice

Reliable job search advice typically comes from seasoned professionals—recruiters who’ve been in the trenches or hiring managers well-versed in the nuances of talent acquisition. This advice is rooted in reality, not fear.

The Bad = Well-Meaning But Inexperienced Insights

This category includes advice from individuals who have some experience in hiring but aren’t yet adept at creating substantial guidance. Their insights are a mixed bag: partially useful, but often lacking depth.

The Ugly = Misinformation from the Uninformed

Then there’s the advice that falls into the “ugly” category—promulgated by influencers who might have dabbled in recruiting briefly or not at all. This advice can sometimes contain a nugget of truth, but it’s mostly filled with myths that are perpetuated because of the influencer’s popularity, not their expertise.

Let’s debunk some of the most common job search myths.

Myth 1: The Hidden Job Market

The notion that a significant portion of job openings are “hidden” is misleading at best. While it’s true that some executive roles aren’t publicly advertised, the idea that 80% of all jobs are hidden is an exaggeration designed to stir anxiety among job seekers.

Myth 2: Evil ATS Bots

The myth of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) automatically rejecting resumes without human oversight is just that—a myth. While ATS may filter out resumes based on certain criteria, they do not autonomously reject candidates without any human input. More often, if you receive a quick rejection, it’s likely a recruiter working diligently behind the scenes.

Myth 3: Referrals Guarantee Interviews

While having a referral can elevate your resume to the top of the pile, it’s no guarantee of an interview, much less a job. The effectiveness of a referral heavily depends on how well your skills and experience align with the job requirements.

Myth 4: Job-Hopping Is Bad

The economic turbulence of recent years, including the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, has led to frequent job changes for many. This should not be viewed negatively; rather, it’s a reality of the modern job landscape. Changing jobs can often lead to better salaries and opportunities.

Myth 5: The ‘Open To Work’ Banner Signifies Desperation

Using LinkedIn’s ‘Open To Work’ feature is simply a way to signal your availability to the job market—it’s neither desperate nor detrimental. It’s a tool, and like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how you use it.

Myth 6: Employment Gaps Are Red Flags

Given the economic downturns and the global pandemic, employment gaps are increasingly common and should not be seen as red flags by recruiters or candidates themselves.

Myth 7: A Certain CV Format Will Guarantee an Interview

No single resume format guarantees an interview. Content is king—your skills and experiences are far more critical than the aesthetic layout of your resume.

Our final remember, always consider the source of your job search advice and whether they have the requisite experience and knowledge to guide you effectively. In doing so, you’ll avoid the pitfalls of common myths and edge closer to securing a role that’s right for you.