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How to get through online resume scanners
I'm new to the group and am frustrated by my inability to get past the online application resume scanners. I have been diligently applying for positions but am finding myself shut out of positions- even ones that are an EXACT match for my experience in care management.
I realize that the online job search is hit and miss and that networking (which I am actively doing) is the best way to find my next opportunity.
I would potentially like to branch out of my very narrow field (workers' compensation sales), so that requires trying some of the online postings.
Anyone out there know the formula for success with scanners?
Explorer196677Administrative Assistant
14
01/09/20 at 6:01PM UTC
I am adamant that I want to work within 5 miles of my home here in Tucker, GA. My skills over the last 9 years have increased exponentially in the arena of office administration and there are literally 100's of offices within that radius. I've driven around and looked at signs of office complexes to return home and identify. Now I would like to physically take resumes out but wonder what the consensus is on doing that task. Are people wary of that?
Lynn JuveGet unstuck, pivot and negotiate your salary.
232
01/03/20 at 12:16AM UTC
Hi Carla, this is so tough! I basically get versions of this question everyday! While having someone like me and my team write your Linkedin Profile and resume or going to a workshop like the user above teaches will help, as she said, getting around the systems is best. The majority of hiring managers hire from their own networks. I would recommend finding out about opportunities by leveraging your current network. Arrange to have conversations with people that are invested in your success like we talked about in the webinar. Ask them for advice and if they don't offer, ask them if there is someone else that they can introduce you to. Often where this hits a dead end is that your friends and family think that they have to introduce you to a hiring manager. If they can introduce you to someone who is employed and lives in your area, the next person will do their best to try to get you one step closer to the type of opportunity you are looking for. Good luck!
Kelly GollobinHelping people be their professional best
67
01/02/20 at 11:49PM UTC
Hi Carla
I teach a workshop about online applications at a career center. These are the robots to get past. There are hundreds of them. They are looking for an exact match of keywords. If they are looking for 7 years experience in X and you have 15 - put down 7+ years. The robots may also have parameters that must be met - education, industry, skills.
One approach is to have a skills section to get in more of these keywords. However, you also want to include them in your experience section - you get credit for having X years of skills based on how long you held the position where you mention this skill. Otherwise, just in the skills section (if you use one), you are given 6 months credit for the skill.
Job titles matter too. If you can work in the job title you are targeting in the profile section that can be helpful too.
Most importantly is networking to get a human to check out what a great match you are.
It's a frustrating process. Take your time and apply for fewer positions that have a higher percent of match. I suggest 80 percent match of the skills they ask for.
Hope that helps.
Carla DoneganCare management sales - workers' compensation.
19
01/27/20 at 6:31PM UTC
Thank you for the great insight!
Jessica SchindewolfLooking for a role in CSR in the NYC area
14
01/15/20 at 3:48AM UTC
So helpful! Thank you!!
AnnMarie RugallaPassionate about Philanthropy & Operations
79
01/08/20 at 8:52PM UTC
Thanks for providing so many beneficial details!
Heather HolmesRemote Graphic Designer
70
12/30/19 at 3:04PM UTC
Make sure your resume is not in columns. The scanners go straight down, anything in a second column will be missed.
Bonnie McGuireInstructional Designer+ Corporate Advocacy Guru
116
01/06/20 at 6:56PM UTC
Wow, that's insane! And great to know!!
Lynn JuveGet unstuck, pivot and negotiate your salary.
232
01/03/20 at 12AM UTC
Thanks Heather! This is a great tip!
Carla DoneganCare management sales - workers' compensation.
19
01/02/20 at 7:56PM UTC
Thank you Heather!
