I am doing research for my own pitiful job search. So far, I have gotten no interviews. I feel that my resume is very good, and I always spend an absurd amount of time on my cover letters. If they interview a lot of people, then I am doing something wrong. If not, then I just have to be patient. So does anyone know, what is the range of applicants who are interviewed for a professional entry-level position? Thanks!
2007-03-05 06:13:09 · 3 answers · asked by nobody knows 2 in Business & Finance ➔ Careers & Employment
I think that the number of applicants interviewed varies from company to company and industry to industry, as well as based on the pool of applicants. I have been hired for a job where there were no other applicants interviewed (the job was open, but they weren't actively searching, so when I applied and they were happy with me I got the job without anyone else in the running.) I have also applied for jobs where there were at least 5 other applicants being considered.
If you have sent your resume to more than 5 or so companies and have not gotten a response perhaps you should ask someone to review your resume and cover letter. There are professional resume writers who may have tips that could help you. Often a fresh pair of eyes may pick up something that seems a little "off." Your question is well written, and easy to understand, so I would assume that your resume - a much more important bit of writing - would also be easy to read which is a big plus!
Make sure your resume is highlighting any education or experience you have that is applicable to the jobs you are applying for. Since you are looking for entry level work I assume that you are fairly new to your industry; this does not mean that you have no experience though!
Your lack of an interview could also be based on the market you're trying to get into. Some industries have a lot more applicants than job openings right now. It's frustrating, but it's sometimes reality. If this is the case try looking in non-conventional places to find job postings. (Not knowing your industry makes it a little hard to suggest where YOU should look.) For example www.craigslist.org (select your city/area) has a job posting area. If you are trying to get a job with a bank this may not work for you, but if you're looking for an IT job this could be a great source. You can also check with the registrar or admissions office of the school you attended to see if they have gotten any information about job openings. Many schools' websites have a "careers section" for their alumni. You can also try hitting up anybody you know who works in the field you want to get into; try asking them if they've heard of any openings.
Don't get too discouraged; it can be tough to find a good job.
Oh, if you're an engineer (structural, mechanical, civil or marine) and want to move to Houston, I can recommend several places that are hiring!
2007-03-05 06:52:32 · answer #1 · answered by Annie 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
This can range greatly depending on industry. You may want to consider 'mixing up' the different ways in which you apply to different companies. Are you sending your resume directly to companies? Use an intermediary: Monster, a recruiter, etc.
Either way, a more direct answer to your question is this: the national average to how many individuals are interviewed for an entry level job (all industries) are 5.2 per position hired.
2007-03-05 06:26:25 · answer #2 · answered by happybostonian 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends upon the industry, size of company, the time of year, etc.
In the spring, there are LOTS of college grads looking for jobs.
2007-03-05 06:19:05 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋