Having been on both ends of the hiring process, I know how difficult it can be to find a job you’re passionate about. As someone who scans through resumes day in and day out, oftentimes they all start to blend. When writing your resume, focus on what makes you unique, and don’t be afraid to show your personality.

It is easy to think that submitting more job applications will result in a higher chance of getting hired, but that simply is not the case. I argue for quality over quantity when it comes to applying for jobs.

If you’re looking to attract more clients, don’t try and reach a wider audience. Here are my three main reasons why:

  1. It can give you a bad reputation. Applying for too many roles at the same company can make you appear desperate and lost. As a recruiter, I can see your company’s application history. If you’re a candidate for the marketing assistant role (because you look great for it), but I see that you’ve applied to 10 other jobs that vary in focus and level, I’m going to think that marketing isn’t really what you’re passionate about. While it’s one thing to be adaptable and apply for a few different roles, it’s another to appear all over the place.
  1. If you’re not qualified, it won’t increase your chances. Submitting a high volume of applications will not land you a job that you’re unqualified for. You must meet the requirements set forth by the role you’re interested in.

If a job posting is requesting four years of experience and you only have three, go ahead and apply. But if you just graduated a month ago, it’s not the right role for you. Read the job description carefully and only apply to positions you are truly qualified for.

  1. It’s not a good use of your time! The application process for jobs can be very time-consuming, and there are many other things you could be doing with that time. Invest the time you would normally spend on job applications into things that will make it more likely for you to receive an offer. Whether it is volunteering, interning, working part-time, taking a course, or learning a new skill – anything is better than aimlessly submitting your resume.

Quality is better than quantity. I am a strong advocate of ensuring each job application matters. So, for positions you are both qualified and passionate about, take the extra time to let others know you applied and how interested you are in the role. Utilize your relationships and LinkedIn connections to introduce yourself to that company.

Prioritizing quantity over quality is a mistake I learned from firsthand experience.

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