Exposing the biggest job search myths

Are you falling for these?

Job seekers are being misled everyday on the internet (I’m looking at you LinkedIn).

There are a lot of misconceptions floating around and way too many people are falling for them. There’s a good chance that the advice you read online is hurting your progress. In today’s blog I’m going to debunk some of the worst job search myths out there.

Before we get started consider this: when you read something online, think about who is posting that information. What qualifications do they have? Do they have relevant experience with that topic? Can other people vouch for them? Don’t automatically trust everything you see out there!

Myth 1: “The ATS is rejecting your resume”

One of the most prevalent beliefs is that the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is the thing that boots your resume after you apply.

WRONG.

As a Recruiter I have personally used several ATS softwares including iCIMS, Lever, Taleo, and Monster (and I’ve tested several others). I can say from first-hand experience that these systems are not set up to automatically review your resume for key words and either accept or reject it. The only exception is if you failed an application questionnaire which may have been screening for location, work eligibility, education, or basic qualifications (if you don't answer correctly, it may boot you and send an automated follow-up message).

At the most basic level, the purpose of ATS software is to advertise job openings and to manage job applications by organizing and storing candidate data (application history, resumes, contact information, interview feedback, etc.).

If people are telling you how to "beat the ATS" they're probably selling resume services or coaching (i.e., taking advantage of you). Here’s a screenshot from a post from a certified “career coach”. Avoid these people.

Human beings (Recruiters) are the ones reviewing your resume. They are the ones that either reject it or pass it along to the manager. There’s not an army of ATS robots doing this.

If you want some clear advice on how to format your resume for human eyes, this blog post can help.

Myth 2: “There is only one path into cybersecurity”

I cannot stand cybersecurity gatekeepers. These are people that believe that you have to take a particular path into the industry (in some cases they’ll make you believe you have to do what they did). This applies to experienced candidates too. Folks are led to believe that to transition into different roles or to become a manager, they must do xyz.

Some people go to college, land an internship, and then make their way into full-time work.

Some people bootstrap their education (self taught), network with their peers, and ultimately get a referral.

Some people transition from a completely different field.

Some people start with military service and then use a transition service.

I have spent years hiring people into dozens of cyber roles. I can say that everyone’s path is unique. Yes, some paths and choices can give you an advantage but don’t believe people that say things like, “you’ve gotta work help desk first” or “you should work in IT before going into cyber” or “you need to become a Sys Admin before transitioning into security”.

My advice?

Take time to find a role (or roles) that interest you.

Invest time understanding what that role entails and what the common requirements are (i.e., education, skills, etc). Spend time qualifying yourself for a specific role.

Invest in networking with Recruiters that hire for that role and people that work in that role. Build a community around yourself and get to know people.

Myth 3: “It’s your resume’s fault”

Don’t listen to advice like this:

While a well-crafted resume is definitely important in the job search process, it’s not usually the only reason you’re not succeeding. Numerous factors contribute to securing interviews, including networking, market conditions, job fit, and competition (yes, other people might be more qualified than you). It's important to assess everything you’re doing. Consider the big picture.

Myth 4: “80% of jobs are found through networking”

Networking is worth your time and you should focus on meeting new people that can help lead you to opportunities. However, claiming that most jobs are placed through networking is 100% false. I hire people all the time that I find myself through sourcing efforts, people that simply apply on our website, or people that reach out directly to our team.

While networking can provide access to certain job opportunities and facilitate connections, it’s important to employ a multifaceted approach that includes a combination of networking, online job search, and other proactive strategies to maximize your chances of finding the right job. Relying solely on networking can limit your exposure.

Myth 5: “My experience alone will get me the job”

Your work experience is probably the most important aspect of you getting the job. What you can do is really important. However, your experience is not the sole factor that employers consider when making hiring decisions. They also look at your attitude, communication skills, culture fit, teamwork, problem-solving ability, adaptability and potential for growth.

It's essential to highlight your experience during the job application process, but also to showcase your overall skill set, potential, and enthusiasm to show that you’re the right fit for the position.

Myth 6: “Resumes are dead”

I’ve been seeing this phrase floating around LinkedIn. It’s usually some saavy entrepreneur or marketer that wants to make you believe that resumes aren’t needed.

“Your personal brand and online presence are what matters”, they say.

WRONG.

Resumes are still the most sought after piece of information by hiring managers (I recognize that the job search landscape is evolving with the rise of more and more digital platforms and online communities). Managers and recruiters want to see them. They still play an important part in the process.

I will admit that in some cases resumes can be complemented with other materials like online portfolios and social media profiles that give a comprehensive overview of your experience.

Resumes are far from being obsolete. Don’t obsess over yours but definitely put effort into making it the best you can.