Six Common Career and Job Search Misconceptions That Are Holding You Back

No one ever said that finding a new job was easy. Sure, some people sail through the process like it’s nothing, but for most of us, it takes time and can be frustrating at times.
While the job market plays a big role in your job search success, how you approach your search also makes a big difference, especially when you hold certain common misconceptions about the job search process. If you let go of these ideas, you have a much better chance of landing the perfect job.

1. A Degree Is All You Need

College degrees are undoubtedly valuable, and there is a reason that most employers require candidates to hold one before they can even be considered for a job. The fact is, though, that a degree is only the beginning. Employers want candidates to have a degree because completing a program indicates that you have at least a minimum amount of knowledge to complete your works. In other words, a degree is a baseline. To really stand out when you’re looking for a job, or when you want to move up into more advanced positions, you are going to need to continue your education.

In some cases, this means earning a master’s or other advanced degree, like any of the engineering fields or if you want to be a teacher or professor. In others, in particular the technology field, earning certifications is vital to career advancement. If you aren’t getting results from your job search, consider looking into your educational options that are relevant to the positions you most want to land. Continuing the tech field example, you can take CCENT classes online and then pass a certification exam if you’re interested in finding a position at a company improving their network and want to be more attractive to recruiters.

2. The Most Qualified Person Always Gets the Job

It’s the dirty little secret of hiring: The person who has the most experience or checks off every box on the qualification list isn’t always the one who gets an offer. It can be frustrating when you know that you would be perfect for a job but you don’t get the call back, but it’s important to realize that there are often other factors at play that you aren’t privy too. For example, the company might already have an internal candidate in mind, the qualifications for the job might have changed, or there could be concerns about how you would fit into the culture. In any case, it’s important to understand the politics that are at play, and not get discouraged when you don’t land the “perfect” job.

3. Longevity Equals Skill

Just because you have been doing something for 10 years doesn’t automatically mean you are an expert at it — or even particularly good at it (although after 10 years, you should expect some skill.) However, you cannot assume that a hiring manager will equate your years of experience with skill, underscoring the importance of highlighting your accomplishments on your resume, and being prepared to share additional evidence of your qualifications in an interview. Also, keep in mind that some employers will view your longevity in the same position as a red flag that you aren’t willing to improve or change, so don’t always count on your years of experience as being a positive.

4. Job Changes Always Need to Be Advances

Many jobseekers fall into the same trap of believing that when they change jobs, it always needs to be for a more advanced position. This kind of thinking can limit your options, and keep you from considering lateral moves that might not equal more responsibility or money in the short-term, but that could be smart moves in the long-term. When looking for a new job, don’t be afraid to look at openings for positions that are similar to the one that you already have, because different companies may offer different options in terms of development potential, benefits, and job descriptions. It might be that your ideal job is at the same level where you’re currently working.

5. Titles Tell the Whole Story

It used to be that titles we a clear indication of someone’s job responsibilities and place within the company. These days? Not so much. Titles can be vague, borderline absurd, or some combination of the two, none of which says much about what you actually do. Again, it’s important to highlight your accomplishments and your responsibilities, not what it says on your business card.

6. You Don’t Need to Prepare for Interviews

If you’ve been on dozens of job interviews, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you don’t need to prepare for them anymore. After all, you know what to expect. Not doing your homework and polishing your presentation can backfire, though. Whether you are interviewing for the first time or the 21st time, do some research on the company, prepare some answers to common questions, and get ready to shine.

The truth is, there is no perfect formula to getting a job offer. But when you a clear about your goals, confident in your experience, and willing to grow, you stand a much better chance of hearing, “You’re hired.”