Using the Shotgun approach

Whether you are a hunter or not, you probably know that the choice of a specific type of gun is critical and based on the game you hope to bag.  As an example, you wouldn’t use a rifle to go dove hunting.  There is a similar strategy in a job search as well, but most people don’t pay any attention to the concept.  They take the shotgun approach thinking that more is better.  I know this to be true because as a Professional Recruiter, I see, week-in and week-out, the same person applying for multiple jobs on our website, applying for jobs when they don’t have even the basic qualifications listed.

This sends a bad signal to every recruiter for two different reasons.  First, it screams out desperation that you have applied to multiple jobs.  Second, we know that you aren’t qualified for all the jobs (sometimes none) you applied for that we have posted.  It makes us wonder if you even read the job posting at all.

We understand that you are “trying to cover all the bases,” but when you do that on a company website, you can jeopardize any opportunity you might have had.  This shotgun approach does you much dis-service because you have applied to multiple jobs where you are not a good fit.  It screams that you are desperate for any job and probably means that you are not going to be called on any job.

We know that you are wanting to cut to the chase and get a new job, we get it.  But… you will be much better served to find the right opportunity where you are a good fit.  When you find that posting, take the time to make sure you convey to the reader that you are the perfect candidate for them.

David (Mac) McElhaney

Managing Partner
Global Recruiters of Huntsville

www.grnhuntsville.com 

Phone: 256-533-1444 Ext 201

Fax: 256-418-4485

Mobile: 407-341-4462