Effective Communication Strategies for Job Seekers

Natalia Montoya
January 26, 2022
Newsletter Article

How do you get past the ATS system and in front of employers? Read here for more!

When it comes to frustrating situations that may arise along the job search process because of failure to communicate, learning about communication strategies is important to alleviate these issues.

First, the problem: What is driving the failure to communicate

What is leading to a breakdown of communication between employers and job seekers is how employers are utilizing technology to help them be more efficient in the job search process. Due to today’s marketplace, there has been a technological advancement in applicant tracking systems (ATS) since there are more job seekers than there are people to process applications.

ATS is a technology used to manage applications that processes and inputs information into a computer system based on what an employer is looking for in a candidate. Often, this is the first part of the job search process that resumes go through once applications have been submitted. Therefore, what happens is as resumes go through ATS, they are being analyzed by a computer system instead of being viewed by humans. Given that, resumes may get caught up in the system, leading to a breakdown in communication.

Networking: The role it plays in alleviating failure to communicate

A solution to communication issues that may arise throughout the job search process is networking, by allowing there to be direct communication that bridges the issue.

One way to network during the job search process is through social networking, by utilizing social media to connect with employers. The social media sites employers are using include Linkden, Facebook and Twitter, with Linkden being the most professional way to connect with employers. Social media is a great tool that can help job seekers engage with employers by making the initial connection that can kick off communication when it comes to making yourself more prevalent in an organization.

Another way to network is by attending industry related events or careers fairs that can help open doors as they are a great place to communicate and can help with building stronger communication with employers. Keep in mind, it is important to stay up to date with what is happening in the industry in order to be effective in communicating on what is happening in your specific industry as it will help to be a part of the dialogue during the job search process.

Who Makes the first move: Strategies to communicate with employers

To prevent what is driving the failure to communicate between employers and job seekers, asking the right questions at the right time throughout the job search process is of importance as it can give you the opportunity to continue the dialogue. For instance, during the resume process, asking on information regarding their timeline and next step processes can help tremendously. Following up with an employer after an interview by sending a thank you note, and if needed, sending a follow up note after the appropriate time should be done so as well.

What’s working for everyone else: What has made candidates stand out

Job Alerts:
- Set up job alerts to notify you when a position that matches your job career is posted.
Play the ATS game:
- Spend time researching and educating yourself on ATS.
Quality over quantity:
- Educate yourself on the organization by familiarizing yourself on their mission and what’s going on within the organization.
Get a second or third opinion:
- Get a fresh perspective on the resume and materials you are sending out.