Troubleshooting Your Job Search

Applying to jobs but not getting interviews?

Revisit your resume! Sometimes when you are not getting called in for interviews, this could mean either your resume is not getting past an applicant tracking system or is not succinctly showcasing your abilities. Remember, you want to tailor your resume (and cover letter) to each position you apply for. 

• Visit our Resume Tips & Support page

Getting interviews but no offers?

Practice your interviewing skills! You can practice mock interviews alone, with friends or family, or Career Services.

• Review a list of behavioral questions on the Interview Items page

General Tips

• When applying for jobs, make sure you are at least or around 70% qualified. You do not need to be 100% qualified for a position in order to apply!

Hard Skills vs Soft Skills

Hard Skills (Perishable)

The technical skills you learn when in school or at work. They are quantifiable and showcase if you can perform the job at hand. (I.e. taking vitals, data entry). Skills you continually need to work on to keep up with industry standards.

Soft Skills (Durable)

The personality habits/traits you have. These showcase how you will act as an employee. (I.e. teamwork, customer service skills).  

To Know

• Each employer is different and looks for a different combination of both hard and soft skills  

• Showcase on your resume the hard and soft skills that you think would be most coveted by the employer  

• Soft skills are just as important as hard skills and are equally as desired 

How to Enter the Healthcare Field

Willing to Start Over

• Regardless of your experience in another industry, you may need to be willing to take title and pay cuts to get your foot in the door.

• You have to be able to establish your skills and abilities in your new role in healthcare.

• Know that the healthcare field is growing and pay cuts may not last long

Volunteer

• One way to prove you have the skills required for the job

• You can start to build your network in the healthcare field

• See what you like and dislike about healthcare - where you want to work

Use Your Existing Experience

• The soft (transferable/durable) skills you used in previous industries can be useful for healthcare

• Make sure you include your relevant experience in your resume and cover letter/relate your previous experience and education to the positions you are applying for

• Examples: Teamwork, working under pressure, customer service skills, etc.

Non-Traditional Job Search

• Ask your friends, family, and professional network if they know of any job openings - you can even contact your doctor's office!

• A professional or personal recommendation goes a long way - ask professors and previous managers

Update Cover Letter, Resume, & LinkedIn

• Express your desire to change careers, to learn, and tell them your passion

• How your existing skills relate to the job change

• What you have done to help the transition (i.e. education, volunteering, etc.)

Be Patient

• Stay motivated and focused - It takes time when switching career fields!

• Keep in contact with your Online Career Services Team - we are here to help!