10 Uncomfortable Truths About Job Searching

(That Nobody Wants to Tell You)

I know, the job market is tough right now. And if you've been applying to dozens, decades, or hundreds of jobs without getting hired, you're probably feeling pretty discouraged. But there are some hard truths about job searching that most people don't realize, and understanding them can completely change how you approach your search.

Here are 10 things about looking for a job that you need to know:

1. It is easier to find a job when you already have a job. It’s ironic, but employers often see employed candidates as more desirable and avoids the dreaded gap on a resume. Not to mention, having a steady paycheck allows you to job search with patience and without desperation, which really does make a difference in how you show up and what you choose.

2. Your personality matters more than you think. The most qualified candidate doesn't always get the job because employers are also looking for someone they like, trust, and actually want to work with for 40+ hours a week. Being likable, sociable, and interview-savvy often matters more than your resume qualifications. (More interview tips here.)

3. Applying to more jobs won't always get you hired faster. Sending out 200 generic resumes is going to be less effective than submitting 20 excellent applications with thoughtfully tailored cover letters for the position in question. (More cover letter tips here.)

4. Job searching is a skill, and you might not be very good at it. You can be excellent at your profession and terrible at getting a job. Writing resumes, cover letters, and interviewing may take completely different skills that you need to practice. You have to learn how to sell yourself, and present your skills well in both writing and an interview. Don’t just expect yourself to be good at it, practice!

5. Your resume isn't supposed to tell your whole story. The purpose of your resume isn't to document everything you've ever accomplished, but to convince an employer that you're worth interviewing for this particular job. Narrow it down to the main points, highlighting the most important from top to bottom. (More resume tips here.)

6. Your dream job probably won't be your next job. Your career is a journey, and sometimes the best next step is simply a better job that moves you closer to where you ultimately want to be. Truthfully, there’s no “dream job” out there; there’s a series of better and better jobs as you grow in your skills, climb the ladder, and discover what you really enjoy and are good at. What you wanted to be when you were a kid isn’t what you want now, and what you want now probably won’t be what you want in ten years.

7. The pay you want and what you're worth in the market might not be the same. Unfortunately, your financial needs don’t affect your market value to companies. Regardless of how many kids you have or how much student loan debt you’re in, there’s a salary range for every type of role, varying based on location and skill level (you can look up your comparable market value with tools like Glassdoor). So if you need more money, make sure you can offer more value to the companies you’re applying to when making a case for your salary.

8. You don't have to meet every qualification to get hired. Job descriptions are often wish lists rather than hard requirements, so don't be afraid to apply for positions that are a stretch. Sure, you may not get it… but you may just get an interview and can learn more about what the future of your career could look like. And, who knows, if you can express why you want the job and how willing you are to learn, you just might get it!

9. You might have to take a step backward to move forward. This is a touch one, but especially when changing careers or industries, accepting a lower salary or less impressive title might be the strategic move for a season. Getting your food in the door in a new industry or company you like can really opens doors to long-term success in your career. The key is thinking about your career as a long-term play rather than just the short-term gains of the next job.

10. Not every open door is God's will for you. Just because you get a job offer doesn't mean God wants you to take it, or that you have to take it. Discerning God’s plan for your career means considering your skills, values, desires, vocation, and financial needs before saying yes. It really helps to have multiple irons in the fire and be applying to a lot of jobs so you don’t feel the pressure to take the first offer you get.

Here's one more truth I want you to remember: God cares about your career more than you might think (He cares more than you do, actually!) Your work is part of your God-given purpose in life, and learning to discern His plan for you is such an important part of the job search. In my free ebook, 5 Spiritual Truths About Your Career (For Catholic Professionals Who Feel Stuck), I share truths that every Catholic professional should know, and how to move forward with clarity, confidence, and hope.

Job searching can be frustrating, but you don't have to keep spinning your wheels, and you don't have to do it alone. Whether you're struggling in the job search, considering a career change, or just feeling stuck, coaching can help you move forward. Learn more about coaching and schedule a FREE consultation to get started!