Stop relying on luck, gimmicks and feel-good advice. Success takes strategy, proof and personal accountability
Too many job seekers are trapped by modern myths: ideas peddled by career coaches, echo chambers and online fear-mongering that are sabotaging their chances of landing a job. Like ancient myths once used to explain the world, today’s job market myths might feel comforting but are just as false. And far more dangerous.
I explored many of these uncomfortable job search truths in a previous Troy Media column titled The job search truths that are holding you back, which tackled seven of the most common false beliefs hurting job seekers. But it bears repeating: clinging to myths and waiting for luck will only stall your career. You need clarity, accountability and a results-first mindset now more than ever. This column takes a sharper look at the most common myths I see job seekers fall for daily, some new, some persistent, and why they continue to do so despite evidence and experience.
Using LinkedIn’s “Open to Work” banner makes you look desperate
I find the often-heated ongoing debate about whether someone should use LinkedIn’s “Open to Work” banner feature childish and ridiculous. The banner is nothing more than a signal, no different than a bakery hanging a “Help Wanted” sign in its window or standing on the side of a road with your thumb out because your car broke down and you now need a lift. You do you; let others do themselves. Your job search strategy is yours to design. Ultimately, your job search results will speak for themselves.
The ATS is rejecting your application because of keywords
Another myth that refuses to die and conveniently shifts blame is the idea that Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software—used by many employers to sort and manage applications—is standing between you and a job.
Excuses abound: “Recruiters aren’t doing their jobs.” “I’m getting ghosted by bots.” “It’s all about keywords.”
Here’s the harsh truth. Job searching is a competition. You’re up against many qualified candidates, often younger, more skilled and hungrier than you.
Most resumes are seen by real people, but they fall flat because they offer vague claims instead of measurable results. Your resume may position you as a rock star, but if your LinkedIn or digital footprint (everything an employer can Google about you) raises red flags, you’re not getting the interview.
Resume advice: Most resumes and LinkedIn profiles are mere lists of opinions
Employers hire results, not opinions. Numbers are the language of business. Your resume and LinkedIn profile should clearly show the value you’ve delivered: revenue increases, cost savings, time efficiencies, workload handled, scope of responsibility. That’s what demonstrates the value you can bring to a new employer.
It’s all just luck
These next myths are rooted in the same issue: refusing to take ownership of your job search outcome.
“You just need to get lucky” translates to “I don’t want to take responsibility.” Success in today’s market isn’t about luck; it’s about strategy, clarity, positioning and relentless repetition. How many job seekers can say they’re focusing on, even mastering, these four action pillars?
As Canadian writer and humourist Stephen Leacock once said: “I am a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it.”
Employers should talk to all applicants
This myth stems from entitlement and a misunderstanding of how hiring works.
Employers don’t owe applicants, who’ve freely chosen to apply, anything. Yet, I often hear: “If I could just talk to someone, they’d see how great I am,” or “Employers should stop making us jump through hoops and just call people.”
Reality check: Employers receive hundreds, sometimes thousands, of applications per advertised role. Expecting every applicant to receive a call is unrealistic. If you didn’t get one, it’s likely because your resume didn’t align with the job, didn’t convey your value or your online presence turned the employer off.
Biases and “isms” are why I’m not getting hired
And finally, one of the most tempting myths is the belief that you’re not getting hired because of ageism, racism, sexism or some other form of bias.
Yes, biases exist. Every person on this planet carries them. But they’re not the reason you’re not landing a job. I’ve seen countless candidates challenge bias and win by showing up prepared, with a clear message, proof of value and, most importantly, without a victim mindset.
Do your actions support stereotypes, like older workers being low-energy or resistant to change, or do they challenge them?
Today’s job market is the new norm. Believing, in the face of rapid advances in AI and automation, that we’ll one day return to an employee-led market is just another comforting lie.
These myths might feel safe or familiar, but they’re holding you back. In today’s hyper-competitive, fast-changing market, job search success demands clarity, proof of value and a mindset grounded in strategy, not superstition.
Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned veteran of the corporate landscape, offers advice on searching for a job.
The views, opinions, and positions expressed by our columnists and contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of our publication.
Troy Media empowers Canadian community news outlets by providing independent, insightful analysis and commentary. Our mission is to support local media in helping Canadians stay informed and engaged by delivering reliable content that strengthens community connections and deepens understanding across the country.
