In a previous article, we’ve talked about when is the best time to go job hunting. Now, let’s discuss the idea of applying to several positions in one company. As the Philippines begins to recover from the two-year pandemic, companies are once again opening their doors to new applicants.
Although this is a good thing, it does mean that competition will become fiercer as more applicants try their luck. One trick that some applicants do to maximize their chances of getting hired is applying for several positions in one company. After all, you can’t possibly be rejected on all of them, right?
But is this really true? Does applying for several positions in one company truly help you get hired or not? Truth be told, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you may think. There are instances where doing this helps. But for the most part, applying to multiple positions isn’t a good idea.
Don’t believe me? Then stay tuned to this article. Here, I will discuss why applying for multiple positions in one company isn’t good and what you can do instead.
Applying on Multiple Positions Shows You’re Indecisive.
First off, one of the messages you tell your potential employers when you apply for multiple positions in their company is that you’re indecisive. It shows that you’re not committed to working for them, as you don’t even know which job you can do.
This is a big turn-off for many employers, as they don’t want to hire someone who may only do their jobs halfheartedly. Will you be able to adjust to it and accomplish your tasks? Or will you have to call it quits after just a few months of work?
You Sound Too Desperate for a Job.
Another reason that doing this is detrimental to your chances of getting a job is that it makes you sound too desperate. Being desperate is another major turn-off that potential employers don’t want to see in their applicants. If you’re making it look that your potential employers are doing you a favor for hiring you, they surely won’t hire you.
You’re Biting Off on More Than You Can Chew.
Look, I know that we’re all strapped for cash these days. But applying for every open position isn’t the way to solve your financial problems. Sure, you may have the necessary skills for these jobs. Are you sure your mind and body can handle the responsibilities of these jobs all at the same time?
Having multiple positions means that you must be able to balance several tasks and bosses simultaneously. If you can’t do this, then you’ll burn yourself out in a matter of months. You may even have to resign because of this.
You May Not Be Qualified for the Jobs You’re Applying to.
Connected to my previous point is this one. What if you applied for positions in the company that you’re not qualified for? And what if you get these positions? What are you going to do? Enthusiasm and luck can only do so much. This is why you should avoid lying on your resume and interview.
What Should You Do Then?
If applying for multiple positions in one company isn’t a good idea, what then?
Evaluate Yourself.
Before you even send your application to the company you’re applying for, evaluate yourself first. What is it that you want to do? Which position lets you do so? Are you qualified for this position? These are just some of the questions that can help you find the right job for you to apply to.
What if the company has two or more vacancies that you’re qualified for? In this case, ask yourself: “Which among these positions are my skills most useful?” But what if all the openings fit your skillset? I would suggest you narrow it down to the position you enjoy most. Pick one where you know you’ll excel and grow.
Construct Your Resume to Fit The Job You’re Looking for.
Once you have finished evaluating yourself, time to construct a tailor-fitted resume for it. Your resume must highlight your skills appropriate for the job you are applying for. Remember, the main point of your resume is to convince your potential employer that you’re the person they’re looking for. You don’t accomplish that by boring your interviewer.
Make a Great First Impression During Your Interview.
And if you get a chance for an interview, make sure to make it count. Come in prepared and appropriately dressed, even if it’s an online interview. Answer your interviewer’s questions as truthfully as possible. And don’t be afraid to share stories about your accomplishments and lessons learned from previous failures at work.
Applying for a Job Isn’t Lottery.
Although it may sound smart on paper, applying for multiple positions in one company is not always a brilliant idea. Sure, it may work on some occasions. But it can also backfire as it shows you’re indecisive or desperate. Additionally, if you are hired in these positions, you may find yourself in over your head with responsibilities. Or worse, in a job you’re not qualified for.
Fortunately, there are alternatives that you can do instead of this. Instead of trying to apply for multiple positions, focus on one you know where you excel at to maximize your chances of getting hired. Once you have picked a job, construct a resume appropriate for it and ensure you make a great first impression during your interview.
