Applying for jobs but not getting hired? It’s frustrating — especially when you feel like you’re doing everything right. As recruiters, we see common patterns that hold job seekers back. If you’re struggling to land a role, one (or more) of these hiring roadblocks might be standing in your way.
The good news? There are ways to fix them!
1. Your Resume is Hard to Read
Recruiters and hiring managers spend an average of 6-7 seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to keep reading. If your resume is cluttered, poorly formatted or too long, it might be getting overlooked.
How to Fix It:
- Keep it clean and simple — use a professional, easy-to-read format.
- Use bullet points to highlight key accomplishments.
- Stick to one or two pages, focusing on the most relevant experience.
- Use clear headings and consistent fonts.
2. You Have Too Many Jobs in a Short Amount of Time
Job hopping can raise red flags for employers, especially at the management level. If your work history shows multiple short-term roles without clear progression, hiring managers may worry about stability and commitment.
How to Fix It:
- If you worked on contracts or temporary projects, clearly label them as such.
- Highlight accomplishments and skills gained in each role to show growth.
- If there were valid reasons (layoffs, company closures), briefly explain them on your resume.
- Emphasize any long-term positions you’ve held.
3. You’re Always Looking for Work
If recruiters constantly see you applying for different types of jobs or repeatedly popping up as a job seeker, it might make them hesitant. Employers want to hire someone who is focused and intentional — not just desperate for any job.
How to Fix It:
- If you’re in a career transition, explain your shift clearly in your resume or cover letter.
- Be strategic about your job search — apply for roles that align with your skills and experience.
- Tailor your resume and application for each job instead of sending out mass applications.
4. You’re Not Showcasing Your Value
If your resume only lists job duties instead of achievements, you might not be standing out. Employers want to see what you’ve accomplished, not just what you were responsible for. They also want to see more than just a vague job duty, go into detail about the types of projects you worked, how many people you managed, any software reporting, etc.
How to Fix It:
- Use metrics whenever possible (“Increased sales by 30%” or “Managed a team of 10”).
- Highlight key projects and specific contributions.
5. You’re Not Prepared for Interviews
Even if you have the right experience, a poor interview can cost you the job. Common mistakes include vague answers, lack of research on the company or failing to ask questions. Employers can tell when you’re nervous vs just giving brief answers.
How to Fix It:
- Research the company and role before the interview — make notes and take them with you.
- Practice common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses.
- Be ready to discuss your strengths, weaknesses and career goals.
Not getting hired doesn’t mean you aren’t qualified — it often means there’s a disconnect in how you’re presenting yourself. By refining your resume, clarifying your career goals and improving your interview skills, you can increase your chances of landing your next opportunity.
