Is It True? Great Jobs:No Candidates

by Erin O'Connor Jones

categories: Job Seekers, Random, Resources, Resumes, Search Strategy, Sector Switcher Stories, Sector Switchers

Published November 04, 2009 @ 05:11PM PT

There are reports out there that jobs exist, but no qualified candidates especially in health care and social services. Do you believe this? If you are a job seeker with no leads, it may be that you are applying for the wrong job or need a better, more powerful, targeted resume. According to CNN Money's Jessica Dickler, "despite millions of unemployed job seekers desperate for work, many open positions are languishing unfilled. The reason? Not enough candidates." 

Industry leaders are reporting that there are jobs, but not enough qualified candidates. As a nonprofit recruiter, it's painful to sift through over 300 applications to only find 5 or 6 qualified candidates that actually meet the minimum qualifications. It's also time consuming for an employer or recruiter to search for relevant information in a resume or cover letter  In an effort to ease every one's pain, consider the following two things when writing your next cover letter: 

1. Read the job description in full, including the part that talks about  "minimum or required" qualifications. Chances are pretty good that if you've applied for over 20 jobs in the last 2 weeks, you are blindly submitting applications that you aren't fully qualified for (unless you are a telemarketer or seeking seasonal, retail work!). If the employer is looking for two years of experience, they want a minimum of two years experience, not 6 months.  If you find yourself struggling to locate something that fits in the requirements, it's not a good match. 
2. Make an effort to highlight the skills and qualifications that set you apart from other candidates. For example, if you are highly specialized or skilled, put this information at the top of your resume.  Your potential employer spent a lot of time writing and preparing job descriptions and wants to know right away that you "speak the same language".  Many employers are willing to step outside the box to look at nontraditional candidates, but many positions require a demonstrated knowledge of specialized software, training credentials or licensure.  If you don't have these skills, knowledge or license, you're probably not their ideal candidate. 

if you are unsure, have someone else look at the position and/or your resume.  Also, read this recent article from CNN Money  to learn more about industry trends and don't forget to network, set yourself apart and keep moving forward. 

(Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/howardlake/)