Eventually, there comes a point when you read a job opportunity, and you know you are the one for the position. You meet all outlined expectations. You have experience in this kind of position and field. You know, with great confidence, what you have to offer the position.

With so much going for you, the last thing you want to do is overlook a detail or make a professional faux pas that takes you out of the running. Larry Slesinger’s article, “Why Qualified Candidates Don’t Always Get the Best Jobs” outlines some particulars of the job search process worthy of attention so you don’t end up eliminating yourself.

This week’s topics are with regard to the application process. It is at this stage where attention to detail is crucial so you stand out amidst the many applicants. Slesinger refers to the following list as reasons why a qualified candidate can be categorized as “dead on arrival”:

Not following application directions. Do not interpret nor ignore the request for information. If the announcement directs you to send a cover letter, resume and salary history, don’t choose. Send all three.

The cover letter is vague. The same as you need to customize your resume to every position for which you apply, cover letters also must be unique. Make sure there is a clear indication that you know something about the specific organization to which you apply. Recruiters and hiring managers can sniff out and discard a form letter well before getting to your signature.

Avoiding the request for salary history. Slesinger okays an acknowledgement of this request by way of stating a preference to discuss salary at a later date. But, not addressing it at all or being vague by including a total value of a compensation package is not productive nor supportive of your candidacy.

The resume indicates nothing about accomplishments. There is a very big difference between what you do and how well you do it. Slesinger offers the following example: “ ‘Managing an HR staff of 2’ is not nearly as exciting as ‘introducing new employee benefits, which led to a 35 percent reduction in staff turnover with minimal increase in expenses.’ ” This is the first time you get to promote yourself, so, take advantage of it!

Assuming relevant work experience and qualifications, candidates following the above instructions are far more likely to make their way out of the sea of applicants and into a smaller pool of candidates considered for an interview. Next week, attention turns from what undermines the application process and highlights missteps that could derail a qualified candidate during the interview process.

Slesinger, Larry. “Why Qualified Candidates Don’t Always Get the Best Jobs.” ExecSearches.com. 1999. Web. (18 April 2016)

Nancy Stoker is a Senior Client Services Representative and Research Associate with ExecSearches.com.

For more information about our career coaching and resume review writing services, email review@execsearches.com.

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Last updated on May 2nd, 2016 at 07:29 pm