Will I look desperate if I apply for multiple jobs with the same company?

Kristina Martin

August 1,2022 at 2:42PM UTC

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Will I look desperate if I apply for multiple jobs with the same company?

The job market has changed a lot since I started with my current employer 20 years ago. I have found postings that are slightly different at the same companies. Will it look bad if I apply for multiple positions.

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AnonymousAugust 1,2022 at 2:56PM UTC
Having 3 or 4 applications going at one time for a large company, especially when they are different departments but similar positions, is pretty normal. Keep your documents straight, though. We had an applicant apply for several positions in our division (technically distinct, but under the same director and the program managers meet regularly) and he didn't tailor his applications or cover letters (or mixed them up). Since the positions all had to do with precise paperwork, the lack of attention to detail was a deal-breaker.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistAugust 1,2022 at 3:09PM UTC
It would depend on how many multiple jobs you're talking about. I know Salesforce has a recommendation on their job section that candidates don't apply to more than 3 jobs per quarter.
Kristina MartinAugust 1,2022 at 3:13PM UTC
3 jobs per quarter sounds reasonable. So far it is just two at two different companies.
Jillian KnappAugust 1,2022 at 3:45PM UTC
If someone was applying for multiple jobs at a company it would say to me this person has an interest in said company. Specify in your cover letter what you think is awesome about the company and in the interview stage ensure you do your homework and be knowledgeable about the company, history, etc. and you should be good to go.
AnonymousAugust 1,2022 at 4:21PM UTC
So long as you are actually qualified for those positions, I would not worry about it. Chances are that if its a large company that they will not even notice. If its a smaller company, I think it shows you are super interested in them.
CgAugust 1,2022 at 4:26PM UTC
If they are in the same overarching department it's better to include a note in your cover letter saying "while I'm most interested in x position, I can also easily fit in y,z,q positions. As a hiring manager someone bigging up the system by spamming resumes is annoying and can in some places get you blocked from applying depending on their internal policies. Better to let people know and have them invite you to apply for multiple positions than to guess and get cut off.
Audrey KirschAugust 1,2022 at 4:44PM UTC
It will show that you have a real interest in the company. Make sure to adjust your cover letter and/or your resume for each position that you apply for. If everything is the same you will just look desperate to have any job.
Tomilyn RichardsAugust 1,2022 at 4:45PM UTC
Definitely depends on the roles and size of company. I have a small TA team that works closely together, so multiple applications isn't always helpful. That being said... big organizations are not all talking to each other amongst different business units and departments... so I say if you are qualified... GO FOR IT!! =)
AnonymousAugust 1,2022 at 5:51PM UTC
As long as you adjust resume/cover letter per role and are able to clearly articulate how each would be best for you and your career path, it's okay.
AnonymousAugust 1,2022 at 9:18PM UTC
No, it just comes across that you are really interested in working for the company. And you applying to multiple increases your odds statisticallly. Just make sure your cover letter speaks specifically to the job function for each role so it is tailored to improve your odds at an interview and nailing the job you truly want. Good luck and great stategy. Never doubt yourself. Go Get Em' Tiger!!
Shanita Taylor BSIS, BSc (Psyc), M.A.E.LAugust 2,2022 at 3:27AM UTC
I would not call it looking desperately. I want to think of it as someone serious about seeking employment. If someone can apply for multiple positions and meet the qualifications within a company, that looks good on you. It shows you are taking the time to look for employment.
KirstinAugust 2,2022 at 12:34PM UTC
Nope!! Happens at a lot of companies!
Jessica Callahan SteeleAugust 6,2022 at 1:44PM UTC
Only if you aren’t qualified.
Klaudia D.August 6,2022 at 3:56PM UTC
It would look desperate only if you apply to completely different, unrelated roles. if you apply to roles at a similar seniority and in the same field then it shows you know what you want to do
Christi MillerAugust 6,2022 at 9:19PM UTC
I would make sure it is not the same job at the company posted by multiple recruiters. I had that happen to me.