(1) How can I avoid the “black hole”? I have submitted hundreds of resumes on job boards. I have yet to receive a response, telephone call or acknowledgement that they have even received my material. I was told by a consultant that all the best companies post their positions on the big job boards yet I haven’t heard from one. The people I hear from are recruiters, career consultants, MLM’s etc.
When you start talking about hundreds, then you are mass posting. The best way is to read the job description and make sure you fit that description. Take your time when you apply. This is a very competitive job market. The employers usually will post on 1 of the Big 3 and then maybe 2 niche boards. Same with the recruiter’s. If they have an applicant tracking system, then maybe you will get automatic response. Unfortunately, there are so many people submitting resumes, the employers can’t respond.
(2) How important is it that you Google your name when you are doing a job search?
It is critical. We call that a “Vanity search.” 80% of the recruiters and employers will do a search. There is also another search which is called “Digital Dirt search”. Just like you watch your credit report you want to periodically search your name. You never know when something will pop up. Unfortunately, people can say whatever they want on the internet. It is better to know upfront before you get too far along in the hiring process.