Why You’re Not Getting Hired
Feb. 4, 2025 | And what you can do about it
Job hunting sucks. It’s a weird mix of hope, stress, and existential dread. You start by sending your shiny resume into the abyss and end by questioning your entire existence when things don’t pan out. Been there, done that, bought the pity-party T-shirt.
Here’s the truth: If you’re stuck in your job search—no interviews, or worse, no offers—it’s time to take a hard look at what might be going wrong. And before you spiral, let me just say this: It’s not you; it’s probably your strategy. Let’s break it down with kindness, a little humor, and (most importantly) actionable solutions.
If You Have Zero Interviews
First off, let’s address the silent treatment. If your inbox is emptier than your willpower at 3 PM on a Monday, the problem likely lies in one of these three areas:
1. Your Asking Price
Money matters. If your compensation expectations are way above the market average, recruiters might be ghosting you. And hey, I get it—you’re worth it. But are you communicating your value in a way that justifies that paycheck?
Solution:
Research the market: Use tools like Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, or LinkedIn Salary Insights to understand what people in your role and location are making.
Show your value: If you’re asking for top-tier pay, make sure your resume and cover letter scream “top-tier talent.” Highlight measurable achievements, not just responsibilities.
2. Your Constraints
Maybe you’re remote-only or tied to a specific city. Maybe you’re looking for a unicorn company with free lunches, unlimited PTO, and a four-day workweek. Constraints are fine, but they do limit your options.
Solution:
Widen your net: If you’re remote-only, consider hybrid roles where you commute occasionally. If location is non-negotiable, target local companies more strategically.
Reassess your priorities: Rank what matters most to you. Flexibility? Salary? Mission? Be realistic about what’s non-negotiable and where you can compromise.
3. Your Screening Criteria
Sometimes, we’re our own worst enemies. Are you filtering out roles because you don’t check every box in the job description? Are you hyper-focused on specific tech stacks or industries?
Solution:
Play the odds: Apply even if you don’t meet 100% of the criteria. Studies show men apply if they meet 60%, while women feel they need 100%. Don’t hold yourself back.
Broaden your search: If a company uses Python but you’re a Java pro, highlight your adaptability and willingness to learn. Skills are transferable; enthusiasm is priceless.
If You’re Getting Interviews But No Offers
Okay, so you’ve made it to the interview stage. First, congrats! Seriously. That’s a big deal. But if you’re consistently walking away empty-handed, the issue probably lies in one of these areas:
1. Your Technical Skills
If the role requires specific technical abilities and you’re not up to par, it’s going to be a tough sell. This is especially common in industries like tech, engineering, or data science.
Solution:
Upskill: Take advantage of online resources like Coursera, Udemy, or Codecademy. Many platforms offer certifications that you can slap onto your resume.
Be honest: If you’re lacking a specific skill, admit it in the interview—but follow up with how you’re working to acquire it. “I’m not an expert in [X], but I’m currently taking a course to improve. Here’s how I’ve tackled similar challenges in the past.”
2. Your Communication Ability
Listen, interviews are basically first dates for jobs. You can have all the skills in the world, but if you can’t communicate them effectively, it’s a missed opportunity.
Solution:
Practice storytelling: Structure your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). It keeps your responses clear and compelling.
Get feedback: Practice mock interviews with a friend or mentor. Sometimes, we’re blind to our own quirks.
3. Your Cultural Fit
This one’s tricky because it’s not always within your control. Companies have their own vibes, and sometimes, your vibe just doesn’t match. It’s not personal (though it sure feels like it).
Solution:
Research the company culture: Look at their social media, Glassdoor reviews, and even employee LinkedIn profiles. Are they casual? Formal? Somewhere in between? Adjust accordingly.
Be yourself: Don’t morph into a corporate chameleon. Authenticity goes a long way. If it’s not a good fit, better to know now than six months into the job.
4. Your Interview Preparation
Did you wing it? Be honest. Interviewers can tell when you’ve done your homework—and when you haven’t.
Solution:
Prep like a pro: Review the company’s website, recent news, and the job description. Prepare tailored questions for the interviewer.
Revisit past interviews: If you’ve been rejected multiple times, reflect on your performance. Were there questions you struggled with? Topics you avoided? Fix those weak spots.
The Emotional Toll of Job Hunting
Let’s not sugarcoat it: job hunting can be brutal. Rejection stings, self-doubt creeps in, and the process often feels more like a marathon than a sprint. So, let’s talk about how to keep your spirits up:
Celebrate Small Wins
Did you write a killer cover letter? Land an interview? Improve your LinkedIn profile? Celebrate those steps. Progress is progress, no matter how small.Lean on Your Support System
Talk to friends, family, or a mentor about your frustrations. They can offer perspective, encouragement, or just a sympathetic ear.Focus on What You Can Control
You can’t control whether a company hires you, but you can control how you show up, how much effort you put in, and how you handle rejection.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
The job market might feel like a gladiator arena, but you’re not powerless. By understanding where the gaps are—whether it’s your skills, communication, or expectations—you can adjust your approach and improve your chances.
And remember, every “no” brings you closer to the right “yes.” Keep showing up, keep refining your strategy, and keep believing in your worth. The right opportunity is out there—and you’re exactly what they need.
Now, go forth and conquer that job hunt. You’ve got this. (And if you don’t, there’s always ramen. Ramen never rejects you.)
Becky Gosky - Founder, Jobity