Why Your Resume Isn’t Enough — And What Really Gets You Hired

When you're job hunting, it’s easy to believe your resume is the key to landing interviews. And yes, a polished, tailored resume matters—but here’s the truth: networking is the real game-changer.

Even the best resume won't make an impact if no one sees it. Despite popular belief, applicant tracking systems (ATS) aren’t the main culprits for lack of responses. The bigger issue? Recruiters are flooded with applications and simply don’t have the time to review each one.

So instead of asking, “How can I tailor my resume so a recruiter will notice it?”, a better question to ask is:
“How can I make sure a recruiter actually reads my resume?”

​The answer: Get on their radar—before they even post the job.

My Job Search Wake-Up Call

When I started my non-clinical job search, I followed the typical strategy: apply to 20+ jobs a week and hope for the best. Crickets.

Eventually, I shifted gears. I applied to fewer jobs, tailored my resume for each one, and—most importantly—I started networking on LinkedIn.

I reached out to recruiters and individuals at companies I cared about. I’d send a respectful message, letting them know I was targeting specific types of roles, and I was excited about how I could add value at their organization. Most didn’t reply, some said no—but a few responded, and those connections started to grow.

For companies I really cared about, I followed up regularly. I showed genuine interest in their mission and stayed in touch. That persistence paid off. After months of staying connected with a recruiter at a health tech company I loved, a role opened up. I reached out, he agreed I was a great fit, and I landed the interview—and the job.

Networking on LinkedIn: What Works (and What Doesn’t)

DO message recruiters with respect, and always frame your message around how you can help their company—not what they can do for you.
DON’T ask for favors like, “Can you help me get this job?” or “Do you have a role for me?” It comes off transactional and will likely get ignored.

DO build relationships with recruiters over time—especially at companies you’re truly excited about.
DON’T “spray and pray” by applying to hundreds of roles and hoping something sticks. Focused, intentional networking gets results.

DO be specific - if you are doing to ask questions, do your research beforehand on the company and role you are targeting, and ask questions that imply some thought went into them.
DON’T ask questions that you could easily find answers to elsewhere.

The Bottom Line

Job hunting isn’t just about sending out polished resumes—it’s about standing out in a sea of qualified candidates. And the best way to do that isn’t by tweaking bullet points; it’s by making real human connections.

If you want recruiters to read your resume, don’t wait for a job post to appear. Get proactive. Start conversations. Show up consistently. Be someone they already know by the time they’re ready to hire.

Your next opportunity might not come from a job board—but from a message you send today. So stop waiting. Start networking.

Your future self will thank you!