Yeah, you would think that the recruiters would be reading the actual resumes, and they do–once the computer has spit out the resumes with the right key words.

Most big companies use computer programs to handle their resumes. You e-mail your resume, or enter the data on the company’s website, and it all goes into a big computer file. (Or, hard copy resumes are scanned in, but really, that’s a pain, so unless the company asks for it specifically, bring hard copies to your interview, but use e-mail when you’re applying.)

Once it’s in the big computer file, and the recruiter has a position to fill, she’ll type in key words and the computer does its magic and spits back resumes that meet those criteria. Yippee!

Except if you didn’t pick the right key words, or she didn’t pick the right key words, then even though you would be wonderful in the job, you don’t even appear on the radar. For instance, let’s say you have 10 years of experience and know [industry computer program A], but the recruiter only searches for people for with experience and who know [industry computer program B]. Even though someone with experience in A could learn B really rapidly, your resume will never see the light of day.

It seems really stupid, doesn’t it? (Of course, a good recruiter will know this and will search for people who fit this criteria, but clearly not all do.) Now, to defend the recruiters (because, after all, one day I’ll want a new job and I’ll need their help), they get so many resumes that it would be impossible to stay on top of everyone’s resume. You may get literally hundreds of resume for any given position (if not thousands) and if you had to thoroughly read each one you’d never have time to actually hire anyone. This software is absolutely critical to filling a posted position.

And it’s also why you need to skip this process altogether.

You want a job?? Find it through networking.? That way you have a conversation with someone familiar with the job who can then advocate for you.? This allows you to be considered for jobs that you wouldn’t otherwise be called in for.

Recruiters may complain about the lack of qualified candidates (and in some cases there really is a lack of qualified candidates), but in most cases, there are plenty of qualified candidates, but the keywords aren’t matching them up.

Some jobs lend themselves well to keywords.? There are computer programs you need to know, certifications you need to have, etc.? However, other jobs don’t work as well for key word searches.? You need someone with project management experience. Well, what in the heck does that mean?? I have project management experience, but is it

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