How to get interviews when sending resume doesn't get call backs?

Question

So I have pretty impressive credentials: about 12 years of IT experience (technical services) at one of the biggest companies on earth, a B.S., MBA, PMP project mgmt cert, good references etc. I am in full job searching mode but the only responses I am getting to my resume are for temporary/contract gigs which I don't want. The resume is on all the job sites and with a couple of recruiters. For some reason the interviews aren't coming, in fact I am barely getting any call backs. What can I do to get job interviews? I want to get a new job ASAP. Thanks for any help.

Answer 1

You shouldn't ever just rely on sending a CV in, particularly at your apparent level of experience - as it become less about whether you're capable of doing the job and more about what kind of person you are. Also, people who hire more senior people tend to be busier and not as good at following up on things - such that you often have to be lucky enough to be on the top of the pile in the week that they finally decide to make the hire (that sucks, but it happens all of the time).

So first of all, follow up by telephone and try to speak with the actual person rather than a PA or receptionist (intimate that you're following up on something you've already been discussing if they ask what you want). Be friendly and don't be afraid to put them on the spot about coming in to meet them - even if they say they're not hiring or have already made a decision. Getting your face in front of them mightn't mean you get it this time, but they ought to remember you next time, or be able to recommend you to someone else in the company.

Secondly, have an open and frank discussion with someone you respect (not family or friend) who can be honest enough with you to suggest where your CV mightn't give the right message. This might be one of your headhunters (who you should ask if there's a way to improve your CV anyway), or it might be a mentor in your industry - someone who understands what's required to hire you in IT.

Whatever you do, don't despair as that can come through in a lack of confidence or desperation - and it's a big turn-off for prospective employers.

Another thing to consider that work at your level is often about that hideous word "networking". Speak with previous colleagues, employers or employees who might be able to introduce you to someone or recommend a possible path. Remember not to sound desperate, but do try to be focussed although don't give them too much of an impression that an introduction HAS to result in a job - as even a chat with someone in the know can result in a left field recommendation or route you hadn't expected.

Lastly, if you're not having any luck in the area you're used to, try to think outside your comfort zone at what your core skills are. I'd been working for a similar number of years and was a senior person at a marketing firm which suddenly shut down. I was basically told by everyone I saw that I was either "too old" (mid-30s), "too experienced" or had the "wrong experience". I sat back, spoke with a few people I trusted to be honest and reassessed my CV to see where my transferable skills were. It worked and I'd now hate to go back to do what I was working in before as it's too constrictive.

Good luck, as I know it can be very tough to keep motivated.

Answer 2

Welcome to America - where the government keeps telling you how great the economy is! Well...... you are experiencing what countless other highly qualified professionals are experiencing; i.e. entry level job offers! The fact is, that there are plenty of entry level - low wage crap jobs out there but really nothing for professionals! It's unfortunate and I can tell you from my own experiences. I'm self employed (computers) and am also in real estate - but always keep my resume posted with Careerbuilders et al. in case something interesting and challenging comes along. However, I get bombarded with garbage offers via e-mail. These offers range from clerical positions to selling life insurance door to door on commission only, to pyramid schemes! Before my over 10 years of successful self employment I was a VP of a major corporation.... - yet I get offers to be an administrative assistant????????????????????????
I suggest that you take your impressive credentials and do something on your own.

Answer 3

Following up with Phone calls or emails is a good bet. Just make sure the job posting did not specifically tell you not to do that. I immediately disregard resumes of candidates that do not follow instructions.
Have a professional review your resume. It is possible that it is too technical for the jobs you are applying to, and needs to show more of a business side (or vice versa). Have other people, peers, review it and listen to their feedback. though you know what you are trying to say, it is possible that no one else does.
Most of all be patient, a regular job search usually lasts three months or more to find the right position.

Answer 4

Try calling them, it'll show your motivated. Wait a few days after you send it in and call them. If you can, bring it in to the company and ask to speak to the manager or super, then you can hand it straight to them. Sometimes resume's "disappear" when someone else is possibley in jeopardy of losing their job or being demoted. Good luck! You'll find something soon! :)

Answer 5

Don't send just any old resume. Anyone can send in a paper resume. I sent in a video CD of me and my qualifications and I got the job. It was on a mini CD with interactive menu's and I used my camcorder to film me and Ulead to edit it. It was a big hit. And they were very impressed. If you need some pointers send me a email and I can help you.

Answer 6

Tough getting a job...aint it?? try state employment office...Be willing to take any crappy job that comes along...I was looking for work and tried 30 places..I finally took a part itme gas attendent job..2 weeks later i got another part time job..I was working 2 jobs 60 hours a week when another job came....

Answer 7

Try a nice cover letter, explaining what you can offer and what you see yourself doing with the company. Maybe your resume is great but they don't stand up and speak for themselves!

Answer 8

okay if they dont call you you call them just keep calling to find out if the posistion is still aval. if so ask if you can call back again stay on them if they know your really interseted you could be surprised good luck

Answer 9

make sure you apply for places with specific vacancies, and although you are with agencies independent research certainly won't hurt

Answer 10

call to "check" if they got it or if they have questions...it opens the door a bit more