Job Advice

5 Job Search Myths That Are Costing You the Offer

Kirstia Cropper

Operations Manager

July 28, 2026

Searching for a new job can feel overwhelming, especially when everyone seems to have different advice.

A friend tells you to apply for every opening you can find.

Someone on social media insists your resume has to be one page.

Another person says companies have already decided who they’re hiring before they even post the job.

The truth is, there are a lot of misconceptions about today’s hiring process, and while some of these ideas may have been true years ago, the hiring landscape is constantly changing.

If you’re navigating the job market in Indianapolis or beyond, separating fact from fiction can help you focus your energy where it matters most.

TLDR: There are plenty of myths about finding a job, but believing them can slow your progress. Understanding how today’s hiring process really works can help job seekers approach their job search with more confidence, stronger strategies, and realistic expectations.

Jump to What You Need

Why Job Search Advice Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
Myths #1-5
The Indianapolis Job Market is Always Changing
Job Search FAQ’s
How That’s Good HR Supports Indianapolis Candidates

Why Job Search Advice Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

One of the reasons job search myths persist is because they’re often based on someone’s personal experience.

Maybe a friend landed a job by submitting 100 applications in a weekend.

Maybe a family member hasn’t updated their resume in ten years and still gets recruiter calls.

Those stories aren’t necessarily wrong, but they’re not the norm either.

Every employer has a different hiring process, every recruiter evaluates candidates differently, and every role has its own requirements.

Here are five common job search myths we see holding candidates back, and what recruiters want you to know instead:

Myth #1: “I have to meet 100% of the qualifications to apply.”

Meeting every qualification listed in a job description is a common expectation, but it’s rarely the reality of how hiring works.

Most employers understand that the “perfect” candidate doesn’t exist.

Job descriptions often represent a wish list, not a strict checklist. Recruiters and hiring managers are typically looking for candidates who meet the core requirements, demonstrate relevant experience, and show the ability to grow into the role.

If you meet most of the qualifications and feel confident in your ability to perform the job, it’s often worth applying.

Being a strong match doesn’t mean being a perfect match. It means showing you can add value where it matters most.

Myth #2: “My LinkedIn profile doesn’t matter.”

Many candidates assume recruiters only look at resumes.

In reality, LinkedIn is often one of the first places recruiters visit after reviewing an application. An incomplete profile, outdated work history, or missing headline can create unnecessary questions.

Your LinkedIn profile doesn’t need to be perfect, but it should support the story your resume is already telling.

Myth #3: “I should apply to every job I see.”

When you’re eager to find a new opportunity, it can feel productive to submit as many applications as possible.

But quantity doesn’t always lead to better results.

A targeted approach often produces stronger outcomes than sending the same resume to dozens of unrelated positions.

Taking time to tailor your application and focus on roles that genuinely match your experience can improve your chances of moving forward.

Myth #4: “No news means I didn’t get the job.”

Waiting to hear back after an interview can be one of the most frustrating parts of the job search.

While sometimes silence does mean an employer has moved in another direction, that’s not always the case.

Hiring decisions can be delayed for reasons completely unrelated to candidates, including budget approvals, scheduling conflicts, vacations, or internal changes. Unless you’ve received a formal rejection, try not to assume the worst too quickly.

If it’s been a reasonable amount of time, a polite follow-up is perfectly appropriate.

Myth #5: “Staffing agencies are only for temp jobs.”

This is one of the most common misconceptions recruiters hear.

While staffing firms certainly do place temporary employees, many also recruit for direct-hire, temp-to-hire, and specialized professional positions.

Working with a recruiter can also give you access to opportunities that aren’t publicly advertised, along with guidance throughout the hiring process.

For many candidates, a staffing partner becomes an advocate (not just someone who helps you find your next job.

The Indianapolis Job Market Is Always Changing

The job market looks different today than it did just a few years ago.

Hiring timelines have shifted.

Candidate expectations have evolved.

Employers are balancing new workplace priorities while competing for qualified talent.

That means relying on outdated advice can sometimes create unnecessary frustration.

Staying open to new job search strategies and being willing to adjust your approach can help you navigate today’s market with confidence.

Job Search FAQ’s

Is it okay to apply for the same company more than once?

Yes, if you’re applying for different roles that genuinely match your qualifications. Just avoid submitting multiple applications for positions that aren’t a good fit simply to increase your chances.

Should I remove older jobs from my resume?

Not necessarily. If older positions demonstrate relevant experience or career progression, they can still add value. Focus on relevance rather than an arbitrary timeline.

Do recruiters only contact candidates who are actively looking for work?

No. Recruiters often reach out to passive candidates who aren’t actively applying but whose skills align with an open position.

What’s the best way to stand out in the job market?

Consistency matters. Tailor your applications, keep your resume and LinkedIn profile current, communicate professionally, and focus on opportunities that genuinely align with your experience.

Small, intentional efforts often have a greater impact than trying every job search trend you see online.

How That’s Good HR Supports Indianapolis Candidates

At That’s Good HR, we work with Indianapolis candidates every day, and we know the job search can feel confusing.

Our recruiters understand the local market, maintain relationships with employers across a variety of industries, and are here to help candidates navigate every stage of the hiring process.

Whether you’re actively searching or simply exploring what’s next, we’re here to help you find opportunities that align with your skills, goals, and career aspirations.

👉Browse our open positions or submit your resume to get started today!

Staffing

Top 5 Stressors for Job Seekers in Indiana

Greta Cline

Partner, CFO/COO

May 26, 2022

Hoosiers across the state are seeking out new jobs. Whether you are part of “The Big Quit” and looking for something with more flexibility in the wake of the pandemic, or are just looking for the next step in your career, more people than ever are looking for jobs and contributing to a record low unemployment rate. However, the job search can be stressful too, so we’re exploring the top stressors for job seekers in Indiana — and how That’s Good HR can help you find a position that fits all of your needs!

Important statistics for job seekers

If you’re searching for a new job, you’re not alone. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) of Indiana, 44% of Hoosiers are actively looking for or keeping an eye on job boards to find something new. A majority at 62% of job seekers are looking to change industries completely, and 1 in 5 Hoosiers have recently changed jobs.

This has put our state at just a 2.2% unemployment rate as of April 2022, well below the record-low national average unemployment rate of 3.6% (Indiana Department of Workforce Development). In fact, April was the sixth straight month that the Hoosier unemployment rate has been under 3%. While this is good news for many, there are still a number of stressors that job seekers are taking into consideration during their job search.

1. Personal debt

Topping the list of stressors for job seekers in Indiana is personal debt. Maybe you were temporarily or permanently laid off during the early days of the pandemic and have been in debt ever since. Or did you take advantage of this wild real estate market and invest in a new home — and a bigger mortgage payment? No matter the reason for your personal debt, That’s Good HR can help you find a job that will pay you fairly. And if you take on a temporary or temp-to-hire position through our staffing specialists, you can earn not just a competitive hourly rate and holiday/vacation pay, you can also receive referral bonuses when you recommend your family and friends to us!

2. Flexible and remote options

Per the SHRM, the majority of Hoosiers (55%) are seeking out remote-only positions. Many of us got a taste of what a flexible or remote schedule can look like during quarantines in 2020, and for a number of employers there has been no looking back. But if you are still going into the office every day and looking for something more flexible, we will do our best to help you find something that fits your schedule.

3. Medical leave

Next on the list of stressors for job seekers in Indiana is medical benefits and insurance. We partner with a number of local employer clients to match you with the best fit for your new job, and that includes finding the best options for important benefits like insurance and medical leave/sick days. And if you work in a temp-to-hire position through That’s Good HR, you can receive health insurance through our office during your assignment as well.

4. Mental health

Now more than ever, mental health is becoming a bigger focus in our culture, and we are starting to see employers include mental health and other wellness programs as benefits listed in their job postings. When you are filtering through job boards, take note of the employers that mention mental health, acknowledge job stress and how they combat it, etc. You can also make it a point to ask about mental health policies in your next job interview. Let us help you find an employer that is committed to taking mental wellness off your list of stressors!

5. Retirement

The final of the top 5 stressors for job seekers in Indiana is retirement. Although it can be easy for some employers (and some job seekers) to focus on the benefits that affect our here and now, building up a retirement fund is important to most of us. A recent survey actually indicated that the younger the generation, the younger they wish to retire, with Baby boomers (aged 57-75) planning to work until 68, Gen X (41-56) planning to retire at 60 and Millennials (25-40) planning for retirement at 59. The average age of retirement isn’t far off at 62, but a well-planned retirement strategy and benefits from your employer are necessary to retire on your terms.

Let That’s Good HR help you find the right job with a local Indianapolis company that will help buffer the stressors on your list. Contact us today at 317-469-4141 or check out our current open positions to learn more.

Job Advice

Creating Your Own Luck in the Job Hunt

Madison Schacht

March 8, 2022

Sometimes finding the best job can seem even harder than hunting down a four-leaf clover. Sure, some of it may rely on luck, but ultimately, we think you make your own luck. With a little help from the staffing experts at That’s Good HR, you can take steps to find a career that you’ll feel lucky to have.

Leverage your connections

You can always apply for jobs where you don’t know anyone or much about the company, but we find that candidates have more luck on their side when they leverage existing connections. Reach out to friends, family and past coworkers to see if they know of any hiring companies that may be a good fit. And when you work with That’s Good HR, you’ll always know that you have a connection to your potential employer. We know the city of Indianapolis inside and out, and we are ready to match you with the right employer.

Improve your resume

One of the first ways that employers learn about you and your skills is through your resume, so let us help you make it a good one. We can help you eliminate these “lucky seven” things off of your next resume, and our talent acquisition partners can also discuss what you think are the most important parts of your experience so that we can bring them up with your potential employers. The way that we give your resume a voice for hiring companies is one of the “luckiest” parts of partnering with That’s Good HR.

Find a good luck charm

We know … we just said that you don’t have to rely on luck to get a job. But science has shown us that lucky charms and little superstitions can work if you think they work! If you have a “lucky shirt” you can wear on your next Zoom call or a special “interview day” ritual, believing that you have luck on your side can actually improve your mental and physical performance. It may be a placebo effect, but it certainly can’t hurt to give yourself a little confidence boost when you’re feeling nervous.

If you are ready to strike it lucky with your job search, contact the staffing experts at That’s Good HR today at 317-469-4141!

Tips

Job Searching? There’s an App for That

Madison Schacht

September 9, 2019

The Android App Store has more than 2.46 million apps to choose from, while the Apple App Store boasts 1.96 million apps as of the end of the second quarter of 2019. The phrase “there’s an app for that” applies to job hunting too!

Use an app like LinkedIn or Indeed to find jobs to apply for – and apply right from the app on both platforms. On LinkedIn, the app makes it easy to keep track of how many jobs you either saved or applied for – it is handy to have this information in one place! The Indeed app makes it easy to access your recent searches for specific position titles so you can check if anything new was posted.

Once you’ve applied, it is time to prep for an interview. Practice makes perfect – check out and download an app like Job Interviews Questions and Answers. This app helps you practice common interview questions you might encounter and gives you suggested answers that you can customize based on your experiences.

Next, before heading to the interview, you’ll want to make sure you’re headed in the right direction. Tap and open Google Maps to make sure you know how to get to the company. It is always best to arrive about 15 minutes before your slated interview time. Last month alone 174 people used Google to navigate to our office.

While you are waiting to meet your interviewer, take a moment and make sure your mind is clear and focused. Using an app like Headspace or Calm can help calm your nerves ensuring that you present your best self. Another app, Breathe, let’s you check in on physical and emotional feelings and recommends a meditation based on those feelings – some meditations are as short as 3 minutes. Have an Apple watch? Take a minute to use the breathe function before you exit your car!

Apps are designed to enhance all aspects of your life – even finding a job. An app is not a replacement for human contact though, so make sure to check out our job board and reach out to one of our staffing specialists. But if you need to know how to tie a tie – don’t worry there’s an app for that!