Common Career Myths Exposed

One thing that recent graduates and job changers have in common is a tendency to seek out the best career advice they can find. And there is no shortage of advice to be found. Whether you’re trying to figure out what kind of career is the right fit, or you’re not feeling satisfied in your current role, be very careful about the advice you heed. In this blog, we’re examining some job search and career myths that you’d be better off NOT to listen to…


A Long Resume Indicates a Successful Career
No, it really doesn’t. This is by far the most common misconception that we see from job seekers. Skip the intro paragraph that reads like a novel and highlight your marketable skills. Focus on core responsibilities, achievements, and results from jobs that you’ve had in the past 10-12 years. When we write resumes, we have a separate section for roles that occurred 15+ years ago. It’s called “Additional Employment” and it’s at the end of the resume before you list your volunteer work and community involvement. Unless you’re specifically aiming to highlight long-term career progression, you can leave off that job from 1992 entirely—especially if it’s not relevant to the work you’re doing now.

When in Doubt—Get an MBA
A master’s degree is no longer a shortcut up the corporate ladder, nor is it a green-light to demand a higher starting salary. Graduate degrees are necessary for certain careers—lawyers, counselors, professors, etc. But for almost everybody else, it’s a questionable investment. MBA's from less prestigious or for-profit universities are often dismissed by employers, and graduate degrees without the work experience don't carry much value at all. If you’re planning a career in a highly competitive company or industry, an MBA from a top school will offer you the prestige you need to advance. However, if you’re considering an MBA for career growth, improved marketability, or general enrichment—save your money and get back to work generating results!

Being Different is Good
We’re taught that standing out is the way to get a hiring manager to notice you. However, you want to stand out the right way. We’ve seen some wild looking resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and interview outfits. Employers want to hire people who will fit in, so it’s important to understand the culture at the companies you’re applying with—but it’s also important to get past the gatekeeper. Oftentimes, this is a computer software program or a recruiter who scans your resume for signs of potential fit—basically to see if you’re worth a closer look. If your resume is uniquely formatted, or written in an unusual way you’ll often get passed over, even though it might not be intentional. To ensure your resume is viewed as a potential match up front, stick to a standard format that is simple and succinct.

Make Your Own Way
It’s admirable to want to do things independently, but the best job search and career advice we can give you is to utilize your existing network. This means using relatives, friends, colleagues, and any other well-positioned networking contacts to your advantage. So, swallow your pride and ask for help, referrals, and introductions.

Happy Job Hunting!