Ultimate List of Job Market Myths

Posted by Paul, January-8-2010

Mypeoplebiz have put together a list of what we feel are the most commonly held myths held about the job market, compiled using sources across the net to bring you the ultimate ‘myths of the job market’

“The economy is terrible, no one is hiring”

The economy is certainly not what it was and news of layoffs is coming thick and fast, but that does not mean companies have stopped hiring. Even those laying off staff still need to hire as business are restructured.  It is certainly worth considering that some sectors do well in times of recession.

“Without the right qualifications there’s no point in applying for the job”

Possessing the right qualifications for a job is always going to be a plus but it’s not essential, genuine life experience and transferable skills are just as valid. If you manage to sell yourself right you can get the job without those ‘must have’ qualifications, or they may be in a position to offer you different position that caters to your skills

“The best CVs get the best jobs”

Having a good CV is essential, but CVs can only get you an interview, what you need is a CV that you can talk about with confidence.  Up-selling yourself on your CV may help get you an interview but be prepared to answer questions on anything in there.

“You only get one shot at having a ‘proper’ career”

Throughout your lifetime there will be several times in which you will have to address your career plans, no matter how successful you are in a particular sector. The days of being in a lifelong profession are long gone; today the average person is likely to have more than 5 different professions under their belt by retirement. In 10 years time you are likely to be doing a job that doesn’t exist yet, so putting yourself under pressure to pursue your current profession as a career may not be the ‘right choice’ you think it is. The truth is you will never know if you have made the right choice, evaluate what you want, rather than what is right.

“Job agencies work for job seekers”

Agencies are paid a fee or by commission by the employer, making the employer the real client.  However they often provide useful advice on CV writing, and have access to information and organizations that are hiring quietly.   Don’t discount agencies completely from your job hunt but be aware of the misgivings.

“It’s pointless going for a good job because it’s all about who you know”

OK, so networking is important and can certainly help you, but you’re really not going to be hired because your dad went to school with the boss of the company. Personalities with the right skills that fit into organization’s culture are those that get hired.

“Eventually the right career will find me”

It is unlikely the job that suits your skills and values perfectly will just land on your lap, it is always good to have some sort of plan, more often than not this will ensure you choose a broad path, even if you don’t stick to your plan precisely. Most people who are unhappy with their careers are the ones who have just fell into something without any sort of plan.

Asking yourself “What is best for me to do” is the best way to make career decisions

This seems like the most logical question to ask when you are considering a career change, but by asking this question you are rarely going to find the answer you’re looking for, more likely you will feel bewildered and pressured to make the safest or most logical choice. However, sometimes you have to think about ‘what do I want to do’ regardless if this means a pay cut or a big change.

“The best way to decide on your occupation is to choose a career that matches your strongest skills”

Just because you are good at something does not mean that you will enjoy it as a career.  Working towards something you believe in and can feel passionate about is far more rewarding.  A combination of your skills and values should be considered when deciding on an occupation.