From career forums to well-intentioned friends, everyone has their own set of rules for landing the perfect job. However, not all guidance is created equal, and misconceptions can often cloud the path to success.
As well-meaning as your friends and family, or anyone else is, sometimes they’re just giving bad advice. Here I’ll debunk some of the most common myths surrounding the job search based on years of experience as a career coach, plus what it takes to navigate the competitive job market as we ring in 2024. Whether you’re a recent graduate, changing careers, or reentering the workforce, understanding these misconceptions and embracing the right advice can make all the difference in your search.
1. The holiday season is a dry spell
Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or July Fourth, there’s no need to put your job hunt on hiatus. . There isn’t a “hiring season.” Vacancies are filled as they arise, and you never know when someone will change jobs … leaving a gap for you to fill. That being said, the first of the year is prime for finding a new job, which is just one more reason to keep hunting during year-end holidays.
Even though some hiring managers may be logged off for a couple of weeks to enjoy the festivities with their friends and family, maintaining your hunger during these slower months can help you give a head start come Q1. And if the job needs to be filled, someone will be checking resumes.
The holidays also make a great time to reach out to your network, as 85% of all jobs are largely filled by networking. So, why not take time during the holidays to send some cheer along with a subtle clue you’re on the job hunt?
Pro tip: Take advantage of the fact that so many people are under the impression that the hiring process stalls during the holidays. Fewer people are actively applying for roles during this time, making you more likely to grab the attention of hiring managers who are still checking their emails. Keep applying.
2. Job searching is a full-time job
Many job seekers pour endless hours into looking for a job. The truth is, that finding a new job requires time and effort. But according to a recent Harvard Business Reviewarticle, you only need two to three hours of dedicated time to find a new role.
Pro tip: Work smarter, not harder. Rather than spending all day on job boards, allocate your time strategically. Websites like LinkedIn and ZipRecruiter are meant to support your job hunt, but they’re not the end all be all— keep in mind that networking events and informational interviews can be much more effective. In fact, employee referrals have the highest applicant-to-hire conversion rate. While only 7% apply via referrals, these applicants account for an impressive 40% of all hires.
3. Company hopping is a red flag
Another common myth is that showing multiple short-term positions on your resume is a red flag for employers. Especially after COVID-19, employers are becoming more understanding of the modern job market, where career paths are often nonlinear.
Hiring managers cite many different reasons for perceiving an employee as a bad hire, such as slow learning, attendance problems, and a bad attitude. However, none showed that an inconsistent work history on their resume may have contributed to their faults as an employee.
If you have a gap in your resume— or maybe just a time period that you were freelancing or doing contract work—rather than trying to hide it, briefly explain how you used that time to build skills that help in the job you’re applying for now.
Pro tip: Instead of focusing on the duration of your past positions, emphasize the skills and experiences gained in each role. Be prepared to explain how diverse experiences contribute to your readiness for the job at hand. Learn to frame your untraditional background as an asset.