Would You Break These 3 Rules During Your Job Search?

Just about every job search process involves following a certain set of rules, such as keeping your resume updated, securing professional references, cleaning up your social media profile and using LinkedIn to network with employers. However, every employer is different, and what might work for one may not work for another. When you're trying to advance your career, ask yourself if you'd break these three job search rules to get your foot in the door.

1. Meeting the Job Requirements

One of the first things you probably look for in a job posting is the list of requirements for the job. After all, you want to ensure you have the skills, abilities, certifications and experience to perform the job successfully. But what if you don't meet all those requirements? Should you just give up? This is one of those times when you should consider breaking a job search rule and applying for the job anyway, especially if you meet most of the requirements. The hiring manager might be firm on some requirements and lax on others. If you make it to the interview process and explain how the qualifications you do have serve the company, the employer might still consider you to be the perfect candidate. You never know unless you try. If the job sounds great and you think you can do it, break this job search rule.

2. Promising Longevity

It's no longer expected for you to get a job and stay there the rest of your life. You may feel you owe the company your loyalty, especially if you appreciate the opportunities the company provided. However, if you feel you can no longer move up the ladder or learn anything new, it might be time to begin a new job search. A new job gives you the opportunity to acquire new skills, challenge yourself and increase your lifetime earnings. You don't have to be a continual job hopper, but investing in yourself gives you more opportunities to excel in your professional life.

3. Sticking to the Application Process

Many of the job postings you come across during your job search might tell you to apply for the position through their online portal or some type of online process. However, this method is often very impersonal and doesn't give your application any personality. Apply online, but then take the time to find out more about the company and the job. Learn the hiring manager's name and reach out to him. Use networking opportunities to make yourself relevant and noteworthy. If the posting doesn't require a cover letter, consider writing one anyway. If you're explicitly told no cover letters, you take a chance of standing out as someone who doesn't follow instructions. Who knows, you might also stand out as someone who is persistent and a go-getter. Acknowledge the request for no cover letter and explain why you took the time to write one anyway.

Breaking the rules doesn't always have to be bad, especially when your job search isn't going as well as you anticipated. If you're struggling with your job search, consider trying an unconventional route to improve your chances of landing a position.

Photo courtesy of Snapshot Virginia Library at Flickr.com