Recent grads frustrated by lack of responses to online job queries, high requirements

He's smiling now, but just wait until he has to start job hunting on Monday.

With most job openings being posted online, recent graduates can start their searches from a local coffee shop, a library or even the comforts of their own homes (or more likely their parent’s basement, given the fact that it takes young Canadians an estimated 10 years to save up for a 20 per cent down payment).

But it isn’t perfect, and many job seekers are frustrated with several aspects of the process, according to new findings from the market research and polling firm, Leger Marketing, which was undertaken on behalf of Monster Canada.

The survey, which polled participants between the ages of 18 and 30, found 88 per cent of recent college and university graduates submitted a job application online immediately after they finished their degree, or plan to do so. But 81 per cent of them said they were exasperated after applying and never hearing anything back.

This was tied with entry-level job postings that require a few years experience as the most frustrating part of the online application process.

Rounding out the top five complaints about applying for jobs online were: vague job descriptions (75 per cent), uploading a resume and then being asked to reenter the same information later on in the process (74 per cent) and confusing application processes (72 per cent).

"Online job applications are part of the modern job search, but it's clear there are aspects of the process that frustrate many younger Canadians," Sheryl Boswell, director of marketing at Monster Canada, said in a press release.

"The application process doesn't have to come with a headache. Companies may benefit from providing candidates with a positive experience, from an easy-to-navigate application system to clear communication with job seekers. 

Participants were also asked what aspects of the job application process were the most difficult. The top two responses were: tracking down a posting that appealed to them and finding the right fit for their qualifications, which received 67 per cent and 65 per cent support respectively.

"It's interesting to see that for younger Canadians, it's not only about finding a job posting they're qualified for – finding a job that appeals to them seems to be the top concern," said Boswell. 

The survey also delved into how to young Canadian job searchers craft their applications.

It found that 55 per cent of participants tailored their resume to specific job postings, while 43 per cent used a standard one. 

Many job seekers also sought out a fresh pair of eyes to look over their resumes, with 65 per cent of respondents saying they do so at least sometimes. In comparison, 34 per cent indicated that they either rarely or never seek outside help.

Boswell advised recent graduates to put in extra effort to separate themselves from the pack.

"Tailoring your resume to suit each job posting you apply to can show that you're keen and can demonstrate your attention to detail,” she said.

“And it always helps to have a second set of eyes review your resume – the last thing you want is a hiring manager to spot a typo."