Working America has truly been unable to catch a break! From the COVID-19 pandemic, “quiet quitting”, “rage applying”, and tech layoffs, we’ve faced blow after blow that's led to high unemployment rates and a surge in job seekers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the current unemployment rate in the US is 3.4%, meaning
5.7 million Americans are currently seeking employment.
As a result, job seekers are facing increased competition for open positions. Statistics show that the average time it takes for a job seeker to find employment has increased since the pandemic began.
The average time it takes an unemployed American to find a job is about 4.5 months! On average, there are approximately 250 resumes submitted for each corporate job opening- making it feel nearly impossible to stand out and gain an interview.
A survey by TalentWorks found that the overall chance of getting an interview for a job after applying is only 2.3%. This means that out of 100 applications, only 2 or 3 will receive an interview.
Yes, these statistics are depressing. But when we break down resumes and the application process, is it really a surprise? According to a survey by TopResume, the average number of jobs listed on a resume in 2021 was 2.6. An employer is choosing whether you are right for the job based on your past 2.6 work experiences.
Why have we reduced ourselves solely to our work experience? Do your past 2 or 3 jobs truly encompass who you are as a person?
We aren't just data analysts or marketing coordinators- we’re working mothers, yoga enthusiasts, side hustlers, world travelers, and more! And what about career switchers or new grads? If we’re reduced to our previous experiences, how can you compete when your ammo is a blank slate? Why do employers focus so much on our pasts instead of our futures?
After all, when an employer hires you they’re investing in your future at their company. Yet our resumes have no mention of our 6-month career goals or skills we wish to learn to bring value to ourselves and the organization. They don’t show that you’ll be 10x more productive when you have a yoga break at 2:30 or that you tend to do your best thinking in coffee shops and have a knack for motivating your team members through your “dad jokes”.
Luckily, personal user manuals are seeping their way into the job-seeking market.
With a personal user manual, you aren't reduced to your past experiences. These tools show who you are now and where you want to go utilizing your skills and strengths. Paired with a resume, this combo is electric for networking events, job applications, and successful interviews. Be sure to seek out personal user manuals that can be shared easily through personalized links and QR codes! Attach to your email signature, business card, resume, and applications.
Want to stand out among other applicants? Share your personal user manual with a recruiter or hiring manager before applying or interviewing to truly make your mark and connect with the employer!
Click here to create a free (and shareable!) personal user manual in just under 5 minutes.
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