'Focusing your job search

Focusing Your Job Search

Posted at: http://www.sodexocareersblog.com/2010/09/focusing-your-job-search.html

by Darla Mayse, Sourcing & Branding Marketing Specialist

I’ve received numerous emails and direct messages over the years from potential candidates concerned about not receiving a response after having posted to numerous jobs at once. “I’ve posted to more than 50 jobs on your site and I haven’t received a call from a recruiter,” is the most common statement.

Usually with a little more information and a quick look at their resume, I find out they are posting to a full gamut of positions from Sous Chef to Facilities Engineer to Division Vice President; however, the resume details only retail sales experience.

This type of job submittal says a few things to the recruiter that may not be true of the candidate.

1. Candidate lacks clarity and focus about what he/she wants in a career

2. He/She has not thoroughly read the job the description to determine if the job is a match to the qualifications and accomplishments listed on the resume – OR

3. He/She has no clue of who we are and what we do.

Don’t get me wrong, I realize that many of us at one time or another have posted to a number of jobs with a particular company in order to get a foot in the door with hopes of advancing into our ideal position. The problem with this thinking goes back to #1 above, “Candidate appears to lack clarity and focus.”

Which can result in no responses at all to your job submissions. Here's my advice on how not to be a lacker.

Research and a little prep work will get you everywhere.
Take a moment to visit our website, www.SodexoUSA.com and venture past the “about us” or home page go to our Career pages and learn about our culture. You’ll be amazed at all you can find out about our company beyond business lines and services offered. Learn more about our diversity initiatives, benefits, Sodexo University, corporate citizenship, and meet our people. Network with us and communicate directly with recruiters and other company employees.

You may actually find someone who holds your ideal job. Pick their brain. Ask them what has made them successful in the role at Sodexo. They may be able to provide you with strategic advice and insight that could give you an edge above other candidates.

Does your resume show that you are qualified for that job?
Take a look at the different types of Sodexo jobs listed, read each job description carefully, and think about how it might fit your current qualifications and interests. You might be "interested" but you can’t expect to be contacted about an “interest” without the qualifications to go along with it.

Is your resume formatted in a way that highlights your accomplishments and experience to meet the needs of the position for which you are applying? Sodexo recruiters view more than 50 resumes per requisition! Those folks who highlight their relevant skills and accomplishments the best may be the first to be contacted. How are you going to stand out in this crowd?

Do you have what it takes to do the job?Take a look at your experience, qualifications and accomplishments. Do they match the job description? Do you have transferable skills along with your technical skills that easily translate to the job qualifications? Understanding the job qualifications and specific skills needed is key when applying for positions. Only apply for positions you for which you are qualified. If you're not exactly qualified, communicate your transferable skills in the cover letter and the resume. Does it seem like a stretch? If you’re not even close, save your time and the employer’s time and don’t apply.

If you feel as though you’ve hit a wall and are a little frustrated because no one has responded to your 50 job submittals; don’t voice your frustration on our social networking sites. Instead, use these communication tools as the resource they are meant to be. Take time to think about how you can focus your search in a way that it is more successful for you. And ask for our help - it's why we created our Facebook Page, Linkedin Groups and subgroups, and it's why we Tweet!