Debunking Job Search Myths

When looking for a job we generally hear the same tips from everyone: "Keep your resume to one page" or "Don't apply if the opening isn't relevant to your experience". In the end though, many of these tiny tidbits of advice can boil down to missing great hiring opportunities.

So what works? Here are a few of the many rumors you have heard about job searching - and reasons why they CAN work in your favor.

1. Applying to companies that aren't hiring is a waste of time

NOT true! It's estimated that people who contacted companies in search of job opportunities had a 30% increase in the likelihood of finding a job when compared to candidates who posted their resume on the Internet and waited for companies to approach them. This success rate can be attributed to the fact one set of candidates was more active in searching than the other. Taking the time to approach a company you ideally want to work for not only shows initiative, but also passion for your field of work. If you are also looking to make a career change, this may be the best move for you.

2. Keep your resume to one page

If your experience exceeds more than one page, it's in your best interest to keep your resume over one page. After editing and simplifying your resume down to its bare essentials, having your resume exceed one page is great asset. It shold satfisfy you to know that your career experience now exceeds one page of descriptions. However, remember to leave out non-essential information at the same time - the last thing you want to do is have a three-page resume with one page of information clutter.

3. Don't send a resume with non-traditional formatting

Human Resources sees a lot of resumes with similar formatting. In some industries where certification and technical skills are important (like the biotechnology industry) resume formatting is not as important as it is in some fields like marketing. There are tasteful ways of formatting your resume to stand out from the others. Methods such as using boxing or layouts that appeal to the hiring director's eye can help you differentiate yourself. When using this tactic, keep in mind that although resume formatting is important, resume content is paramount. So spend a few extra hours on your resume to make sure it is perfected.

4. Never say anything negative about a previous job

The most important thing to remember when going into an interview is to be honest. Interviewers are people too and can tell when you are blatantly trying mask your feelings about a topic or situation. If your reasons for leaving a previous job are perfectly valid you can phrase your reasons for leaving in a balanced way.

For example, you could say: "I got along well with my boss, but there were some personal issues that he took to work everyday, making it difficult for our team and myself to work with him. That's why I want to work with a boss that is professional and trustworthy."

This way you are honestly (and tactfully) stating your experience at your past job. Being honest will allow you to stand out from other individuals.

5. Informational Interviews are a waste of time.

Depending on your experience and the position you are aiming for, informational interviews can help you network and eventually find your ideal job. Those who are looking for entry-level positions should be more inclined to find informational interviews with companies they aim to work for. Especially in a economy with fewer job openings, going into an interview even if it is just informational is better than not doing anything at all. If you don't get a callback from your ideal company, keeping in touch with them for feedback can possibly help guide you towards an opportunity at an affliate or within the same company.


In all, it's not necessarily best to follow popular advice - think carefully about how you'd like to find your job and what it takes to get there. In many cases, the way to success is the road less travelled - think outside the box!