Why 90% of Job Seekers Never Get Hired: Insights from a Recruiters' Friend
A recent conversation with a recruiter friend, Abhishek Nair from Kerala, has shed light on the common mistakes that job seekers make, resulting in a dismal success rate of securing employment. With the current job market in defensive mode, even top talent is struggling to get hired.
The Lack of Practical Experience
"You don't need to build the next Facebook or Twitter," says Nair. "But a calculator app won't cut it either." The recruiter friend revealed that one of the biggest reasons why most job seekers never get hired is the lack of practical experience. In today's digital age, having a portfolio of projects and websites can make all the difference in showcasing your skills to potential employers.
"Build decent projects that push your limits while showcasing your skills at the same time," advises Nair. This doesn't mean creating something from scratch; it could be fixing a bug on an existing website or contributing to open-source projects. The key is to demonstrate your ability to learn, adapt, and solve problems.
Applying Blindly to Every Listing
"Most recruiters can smell a mass application from a mile away," warns Nair. Applying blindly to every second listing on LinkedIn without researching the company culture, job role, or requirements is a common mistake that job seekers make. This approach not only wastes time but also makes it difficult for you to stand out in a crowded field.
"Job seekers should apply to lesser jobs and customize their resume and cover letter to show that they are genuinely interested in the company and the job role they are applying for," advises Nair. By doing so, you'll increase your chances of getting noticed by recruiters and landing an interview.
The Importance of Personal Branding
A lack of personal branding has adversely impacted job seekers, making it difficult for them to establish themselves as professionals in their field. "If your only presence online is a private Instagram account and a LinkedIn profile with 12 connections — you're invisible to recruiters," says Nair.
Showing Your Work
"The easiest way to stand out is to show your work publicly," advises Nair. Even if you're just starting out, sharing your projects, learning journey, or documenting your progress can make a huge difference in showcasing your skills and passion for technology.
The Dangers of a Non-Existent Networking Game
"Most jobs are not found on job boards but through people," points out Nair. Having an established network of contacts within the industry can significantly increase your chances of landing a job. This doesn't mean you need to have thousands of connections; even having 10-20 meaningful relationships can make all the difference.
The Pitfall of Buzzwords
Many job seekers fall into the trap of using buzzwords like "hardworking," "self-motivated," and "team player" without adding any substance to their resume. This approach not only makes your application look generic but also fails to showcase your actual skills and accomplishments.
"Hardworking, self-motivated team player with a passion for technology" Cool. So is everyone else. Instead of stuffing your resume with generic adjectives, focus on:
- What problems you've solved
- What tools you used
- What impact you made
The Importance of Action over Waiting for the "Perfect" Job
"Start with whatever you have, however imperfect it is," advises Nair. The best opportunities come to those who are already in motion — not those waiting to be ready. Don't wait for the perfect job; instead, focus on building your skills, networking, and creating a strong personal brand.