I Have Applied to 3,058 Jobs I Didn’t Get – How Can You Win at a Game With Those Odds?

I have applied to 3,058 jobs I didn’t get. Those I have gotten have predominantly been because of relationships and reputation—mostly relationships. How can you win at a game with these odds?

When you apply for a job, you may be up against hundreds or even thousands of people. So, how can you stand out from the crowd?

First, you must become the most obvious choice for the role. This means going beyond just meeting the qualifications. It’s about demonstrating how your unique skills, experience, and approach directly solve the challenges the hiring manager is facing.

You have to de-risk their decision to hire you. But even when you’re the most obvious choice, it doesn’t guarantee you’ll get the job – a realization that is very challenging to accept.

Rejection is part of the journey. If you don’t get the opportunity, remember that it could be the next one or the one after that. The key is to never give up.

Keep building relationships, keep improving your skills, and keep showing up as the best version of yourself. The right opportunity will come if you stay persistent and resilient.

Practical Steps You Can Take Today:

Build Relationships: Reach out to industry peers, mentors, and potential sponsors. Networking isn’t just about meeting people; it’s about nurturing those connections over time.

Keep Learning: Continuously develop your skills through online courses, certifications, and staying up-to-date with industry trends. The more you know, the more value you can bring.

Showcase Your Value: Update your LinkedIn profile, resume, and personal brand to reflect your latest achievements and the unique value you offer. Make it clear how you solve problems.

Personalize Your Approach: When applying for jobs, tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the specific needs of the role.

Stay Persistent: If you don’t get the job, don’t be discouraged. Keep applying, keep improving, and keep connecting. The right opportunity is out there, waiting for you.

Ultimately, a hiring manager has to visualize you doing the job, based on your experiences and track record. A great relationship with the hiring manager can help; when you don’t have that, you can either try to create it, or you can create relationships with those in their sphere who influence them.

My first sales job, I got because my friend’s aunt got me an interview. I earned a promotion, then made a move because a new department needed a strong manager and I earned two more promotions after that.

My next job, I got because I had written a book – that is the thing that made my resume stand out.

My next 6 jobs and promotions happened because of relationships and a strong reputation.

So I ask you—how are you investing in your career by building relationships and reputation?

#CareerGrowth #Networking #Leadership #Persistence #JobSearch #RelationshipsMatter #Resilience #PersonalBranding #NeverGiveUp