More than three-quarters (76 percent) of job seekers report that when preparing for a job search, they need to improve fundamental job search skills, according to a survey by talent mobility consulting firm Lee Hecht Harrison. Key areas in need of development include resume preparation, targeting open positions, and conducting a persuasive interview. 

Peter Alcide, president and COO for Lee Hecht Harrison, stated, “A lack of preparedness, skill, and confidence in developing a resume, uncovering job leads, or conducting an interview will lengthen the time a job seeker remains unemployed.” 

Lee Hecht Harrison surveyed 645 job seekers throughout the United States via an online poll with the question: “In preparing for your job search, what area is in need of most improvement?” The results were as follows:

According to Alcide job seekers struggle in their job search because they lack the guidance and support needed to be effective. “No one should go through a job search alone. Many of us lack the self-awareness to understand which skills we need to improve and how to improve those skills. A career coach or support network of peers can provide the feedback, benchmarks and development that will lead to better job search results,” says Alcide. 

Job seekers need to continually assess their skills and preparedness. Alcide suggests that job seekers ask themselves the following questions: 

• Is your resume capturing attention and leading to interviews?

• Are you targeting the right jobs, or responding to any and all job openings regardless of whether the position is a good fit for your skills and experience?

• Are you getting the interview, but unable to turn the opportunity into a competitive offer? 

Alcide’s advice to seekers: If seekers are not satisfied with results in these areas, they should seek feedback to gain a clearer understanding of what skills you need to improve. 

Finally, staying connected is key for job search success. “Some of our best ideas come from collaboration. Job seekers need to stay connected with individuals who understand their challenges, can offer support, and provide meaningful guidance. Working with a career coach or participating in a networking group with other job seeking peers is a great opportunity to review your job search techniques, ask for feedback and improve skills. Staying connected and involving others in your search is also an important way to broaden your networking reach and gain new introductions,” says Alcide