Young And Unemployed? 3 Reasons Why You’re Not Getting Hired

Your Resume Isn't Job-Specific

While it's good to have a strong resume with all of your professional skill sets, your resume can become generic when all you do is send the same resume to every open position you find.

Take the time to rewrite your resume on multiple occasions and use specific keywords that are in the job description.

According to an article on the Job Center of Wisconsin website, gathering information specific to the job you are applying for and matching it with your experience on your resume is what makes a good resume. You have to "think like an employer," the article states, and "do not give unrelated or negative information."

Tailoring your resume shows hiring managers that you're serious about the role and have taken the time to align your qualifications with their needs. This not only helps you pass applicant tracking systems (ATS), which filter resumes based on keyword matches, but also increases your chances of standing out in a competitive job market. If you're young and unemployed, this extra effort could be the difference between getting overlooked and getting called in for an interview.

You're Not Applying For Jobs That Are Specific To Your Skills

You have every reason to apply for every job in sight. However, it doesn't do you any favors when you apply for every single job you see and send the same resume to each one.

Apply for the jobs you want and are qualified for. After all, it's what you studied for.

Focus on quality over quantity when it comes to your job search. Hiring managers can tell when a resume has been recycled, and that lack of personalization can cost you an interview. Again, you need to tailor your resume for each position by highlighting the skills and experience that match the job description. Employers are looking for candidates who show genuine interest and a clear understanding of the role, not someone who's just mass applying.

Try to make a list of potential places you'd like to work for (your interview bucket list) and target those companies in any way you can. Use social media sites like LinkedIn to find people you can network with (backchanneling is so important in this competitive job market), and keep an eye out for any open positions. You have a better chance of getting hired at a job where your skills are relevant than at a job you're 100% unqualified for.

You Don't Take Your Social Media Profiles Seriously

According to an article on the Undercover Recruiter, a survey of 300 professionals by Reppler found that "hirers are using social networks to screen job applicants." This means you should clean up your Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok profiles to present a more positive and, more importantly, professional image of yourself.

It might be in your best interest not to post that picture of you doing a keg stand, or post about how you hate looking for jobs. Hiring managers are paying close attention to your digital footprint, and even one inappropriate photo or negative comment can raise red flags. Think of your social media as an extension of your resume, a reflection of your personal brand. It should highlight your interests, communication skills, and overall professionalism.

If you’re young and unemployed, curating a clean, job-seeker-friendly online presence could be the difference between getting ghosted and getting a callback.

We understand how difficult it is for recent college grads and young professionals to find a job right now. By following these tips, you'll shorten your job search and get hired quicker than your peers.

Need more help with your job search?

Get access to our Free Resource Center today (no credit card required!).